The doctoral training program is designed to acquire 60 ECTS, which are divided into the following categories:

We encourage candidates to exceed these ECTS requirements and to take advantage of all relevant opportunities in a way that is useful for their doctoral project.

In order to fulfill their training requirements, doctoral students must complete three “advanced classes” (15 ECTS).

Doctoral candidates may take other advanced courses that are specific to their field of study at another Belgian or foreign university, subject to the approval of their local doctoral committee.

The category of research activities and transversal skills (25 ECTS) encompasses a range of tasks, including attending seminars and conferences, presenting papers, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, organizing events, participating in research networks, and undertaking additional training activities. The criteria for crediting such activities vary between universities. For further information, please contact your administrative officer.

At least 15 ECTS must be obtained through active research productions

Important notice for ULB PhD candidates only:

From the academic year 2023-2024, candidates newly enrolled in the ULB doctoral training programme will be required to attend in person a minimum of 5 Research Seminars in Applied Economics and Management (RSAEM) per year. This will be credited for 5 ECTS of passive Research Activities