The training of a doctoral candidate will span from four to six years, consisting of the following four sections:

2-4 semesters of study at Tsinghua University. Students will complete major specialized courses and fundamental research training at Tsinghua University, where they will take all relevant postgraduate courses;

1-2 semesters of training in developed countries. Students will spend half or one academic year studying theory and research methodology at related colleges or scientific research institutes in developed countries;

4 semesters of study and research in developing countries. Students will carry out field studies and research at colleges or research institutes in their target countries (regions);

1-2 semesters at Tsinghua to complete their doctoral dissertations.

The specific training process depends on the particular needs of students, which will be determined by the doctoral supervision group and the program director in accordance with individual students’ discipline background and research direction.