In this monograph, the authors introduce the western experience of PhD studies, drawing parallels between post-graduate and doctoral studies. At the same time, constant emphasis is placed at the necessity of transition from aspirantura (former Soviet Union education level) to doctoral studies, clarifying that there are significant differences between postgraduate and doctoral education systems. By tradition, post-graduate studies in Armenia have led to the formation of intellectual capital and the career growth of an individual. However, things have changed, and the science, as well as post-graduate education, strive for a market of innovations, which requires radical improvements, funding for post-graduate studies, end-of-learning research, market-based scientific novelty. The authors, based on the Salzburg principles, have introduced new approaches to the selection of PhD students, the appointment of scientific supervisors, the definition of academic freedoms, quality assurance, highlighting the organization of competitive 3rd-level higher education.

Atom Mkhitaryan has a Ph.D. degree in Physics. He received a Master's Degree in Law from the Public Administration Academy. Worked at the State Committee of Science, Ministry of Diaspora, Supreme Certifying Commission, Armenian National Academy of Sciences. He is an expert in Higher Education and Science management.