Undip to open new postgrad program

SEMARANG, Central Java: Diponegoro University (Undip) Rector Prof. Eko Budihardjo said the university would open a new doctorate program in urban development and architecture for the 2004/2005 academic year.

"This will join other doctorate programs we previously opened such as the doctorate programs in law, medical science and economics," he said, adding that a doctorate required three years to complete.

Eko, an expert in urban planning, said the university initially planned to accept just 10 students for the new program. However, 18 candidates were admitted after the interview session.

"That surprised me," he said, adding that the candidates, most from Central and East Java, included government officials.

The university currently is waiting approval from the Ministry of National Education to open a doctorate program in maritime and fishery science. -- JP