Cotutelle or Codirection?
Can I do a cotutelle?
No, Columbia does not permit co-tutelles, an arrangement whereby a student receives doctoral degrees from two institutions simultaneously. HOWEVER Columbia faculty may serve on dissertation committees for students in other institutions; they may also serve as co-advisors (codirection) of the dissertation if the internal rules of the other university allow it. In such instances, the single degree would be issued by the other institution.
Can I have co-advisors on my dissertation?
Yes: Columbia faculty may serve on dissertation committees for students in other institutions; they may also serve as co-advisors (codirection) of the dissertation if the internal rules of the other university allow it. In such instances, the single degree would be issued by the other institution.
Where should I begin?
If you wish to have a faculty member co-supervise your dissertation, we advise you to identify someone who would be best positioned to take on that task, based on their expertise. Your doctoral supervisor may suggest the names of potential co-advisors as well. This would be the best course of action.
Alternatively, if you provide us with more details about your proposed research topic, we can offer suggestions. Please email us at [email protected] for further assistance.