Center for Doctoral Studies in Social and Behavioral Sciences
The Center for Doctoral Studies in Social and Behavioral Sciences (CDSS) administers doctoral programs in close collaboration with the School of Social Sciences at the University of Mannheim. Research and teaching takes an empirical-analytical approach, which is informed by theory and relies on quantitative methods.

The CDSS was a great experience that I wouldn't want to miss. It provided me with an excellent environment for my PhD and prepared me in the most optimal way for a job in academia. I particularly profited from the fruitful exchange with other PhD students, the interdisciplinary orientation, and the diverse course program. The CDSS encourages you to think outside the box and to getting yourself inspired by all the different perspectives that it integrates. This is not only a great asset for one's dissertation but also highly valuable for what comes after.
Programs
CDSS doctoral students have published in top academic journals, for instance:
- European Journal of Political Research
- Political Analysis
- Educational Psychology
- European Sociological Review
Our students have obtained academic positions at leading national and international universities such as:
- Technical University of Munich
- London School of Economics
- University of Oxford
- Autonomous University of Madrid
- Harvard Kennedy School
Curious?
Check out our alumni placements or publication web pages.