Autumn PhD Course on Discourse Theory and Methods – Registrations Now Open

From 3 to 7 November 2025, the Centre Voršilská of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University will host an intensive doctoral course titled Prague PhD Course on Discourse Studies and Method: Using Discourse-Theoretical Analysis and Discursive-Material Analysis, led by Prof. Nico Carpentier, Ph.D.

The course focuses on two key methods within discourse studies – Discourse-Theoretical Analysis (DTA) and Discursive-Material Analysis (DMA). Both are grounded in so-called high theory, with discourse theory as their primary foundation, and with strong influences from actor-network theory and new materialism.

Participants will not only gain a deeper understanding of the theoretical background, but also learn how to apply these approaches in analytical practice – for example, through the concept of the sensitising concept. The programme includes both lectures and workshops with theoretical and research-driven components.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will:

• develop a deeper knowledge of discourse studies and the relationship between the discursive and the material;
• become familiar with translating theory into research practice;
• be able to construct their own analytical model for discourse-theoretical or discursive-material analysis.

The course is worth 5 ECTS credits. A certificate (graded as “Pass”) will be awarded to participants who meet the following three conditions: attendance at a minimum of 8 out of 10 sessions, participation in a theoretical group presentation, and delivery of an individual case study presentation.

The course is open to 20 participants, and the registration fee is €50 (this does not include accommodation, meals, or travel expenses).

Applications must be submitted by 1 July 2025. Interested applicants are required to submit:

• a motivation letter,
• a brief description of their ongoing (PhD) research (including its current stage),
• a CV (including university affiliation and contact information).

Applicants will be notified of the selection results by 31 July 2025. Applications are submitted via an online form, and any registration-related questions can be directed to the course coordinator, Mazlum Kemal Dağdelen.