Academics in the Book Studies department can offer places for doctoral students. Formally one may only study for a doctorate when one already has a Magister or Master title, generally in Book Studies.
Postgraduates in other, related subjects can also switch to a Book Studies doctorate. An application must be made to the board of examiners who will then decide whether the postgraduate's previous research can be recognised as part of the Book Studies doctorate or whether the postgraduate must catch up on missed work. In general six semesters are needed to successfully complete a doctorate in Book Studies.
In 2008 the postgraduate programme "Media, Book and Image Studies" (IMZ) was established. Postgraduates in the Book Studies department can sign up to this group.