- 9 semester
- In-person
- Credits 92
- Full-time
- Start date: August 10, 2026
- SNIES code: 105977
On-campus format – Full-time commitment
The Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Development Studies has 92 academic credits and is designed to be completed in 9 semesters.
*Information and program subject to change.
This Doctorate is designed to be completed in 9 semesters, with a total of 92 credits.
Development Theories
4
Institutional analysis and development
Institutional analysis of development, (4 credits)
In this program, you will immerse yourself in the foundations of institutional analysis so that you can easily apply it in your interdisciplinary research on development. Today, institutional analysis is one of the main analytical frameworks for addressing various development issues in all their facets. Join us and become an expert in an approach that is revolutionizing the social sciences!
4
Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies
Introduction to Interdisciplinary Studies, (2 credits)
This course creates a collaborative environment where participants acquire the foundations to develop their research processes through the use of interdisciplinary logic in theoretical development, the understanding of social phenomena, social action, or public policy decision-making.
2
Introduction to Research Methods
Introduction to Research Methods, (2 credits)
The purpose of this methodological foundations course is to explore the “how” and the “why” of research, drawing on elements from diverse disciplines, paradigms, trajectories, and interdisciplinary research perspectives.
2
Elective
seminar 1
Cider or Uniandes
Elective Seminar 1, (4 credits)
4
Contemporary Debates on Development
This course is based on problem-based learning and adopts an active methodology that encourages debate. Its thematic focus allows students to explore and analyze new challenges in the field of development related to Cider’s research areas, which include planning, governance, gender, equity, institutions, peace, sustainability, and the environment. Each class session will focus on emerging debates, as well as those that remain relevant and those that have already been overcome, and will examine the contributions of various actors to development.
4
Thesis workshop 1
Thesis workshop 1, (3 credits)
This course is specifically designed for students in the Doctoral Program in Interdisciplinary Development Studies. Its main objective is for students to prepare and present their research proposal.
3
Elective
seminar 2
Cider or Uniandes
Elective seminar 2, (4 credits)
4
Methodological elective
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4
Thesis Workshop 2
Thesis Workshop 2, (3 credits)
Academic assessment in which the student submits their thesis project to the Doctoral Committee.
3
Elective
Seminar 3
Cider or Uniandes
Elective Seminar 3, (4 credits)
4
Data Analytics Applied to Development Studies
Data Analytics Applied to Development Studies, (4 credits)
This course provides theoretical and practical tools for data analysis. We explore and understand the quantitative methods and tools widely used in development studies over the last two decades. At the end of the course, students will be able to apply these methods both in their research or consulting projects and in their professional work.
4
Thematic
Exam
Thematic Exam, (2 credits)
During this course, students will independently review the main concepts and theories in interdisciplinary development studies, focusing especially on those relevant to their areas of research. At the end of the course, students will take an exam to demonstrate their mastery of these concepts and theories.
2
Thesis
Proposal
Thesis Proposal, (4 credits)
During this course, students will independently formulate their doctoral research proposal. This course is exclusive to the Doctoral Program in Interdisciplinary Development Studies and constitutes an integral part of the midterm evaluations that students must pass to enter the research stage.
4
Directed
Studies 1
Directed Studies 1, (9 credits)
During the research stage, the student will carry out the activity plan presented in the thesis proposal, with the assistance of their thesis supervisor and an advisory committee. During this period, the student will enroll in three Directed Studies courses, each worth ten credits. These courses must be completed consecutively, and upon passing the last one, the student will be considered to have completed their thesis, ready for defense.
8
Research Analysis and Writing
Quantitative Data Analysis and Research Writing, (2 credits)
A course that provides students with skills to analyze the information collected during research and to present it through academic articles, public policy documents, or doctoral monographs.
2
Directed
Studies 2
Directed Studies 2, (9 credits)
During the research stage, the student will carry out the activity plan presented in the thesis proposal, with the assistance of their thesis advisor and an advisory committee. During this period, the student will enroll in three Directed Studies courses, each worth ten credits. These courses must be completed consecutively, and upon passing the last one, the student will be considered to have completed their thesis, ready for defense.
8
Internship
Internship, (10 credits)
During the research stage, the student will undertake an academic stay or internship of at least one academic semester at one or more internationally renowned universities or research centers. During the internship, the student may:
a) Collect and analyze information, for example, by conducting interviews and consulting archives.
b) Receive supplementary training, for example, by taking courses according to the needs of their project.
c) Present and discuss their thesis at colloquia and doctoral seminars at other universities.
d) Prepare articles as a co-author with students and professors from other universities.
8
Directed
Studies 3
Directed Studies 3, (10 credits)
During the research stage, the student will carry out the activity plan presented in the thesis proposal, with the assistance of their thesis advisor and an advisory committee. During this period, the student will enroll in three Directed Studies courses, each worth ten credits. These courses must be completed consecutively, and upon passing the last one, the student will be considered to have completed their thesis, ready for defense.
8
Dissertation Defense
Dissertation Defense, (4 credits)
This is the academic component in which the doctoral student defends their dissertation before an external committee.
10
Blended format (in-person and online) with classes every 15 days.
More information:
Nataly Guanumen Rodríguez
Applicant Experience Advisor
📩 ln.guanumen@uniandes.edu.co
📞3324060. Ext: 7231
🏦Office GB-421
You can also write to us via WhatsApp