Intercultural Studies Doctorate: A relevance and feasibility analysis for the Intercultural Community University Model

Abstract

This research has analyzed the relevance and feasibility of a doctoral program in intercultural studies at the University of the Autonomous Regions of the Nicaraguan Caribbean Coast (URACCAN) the Intercultural Community University. Qualitative and quantitative methods and techniques were applied, based on a descriptive design, the data were the result of a semi-structured interview to URACCAN men and women and to future employers of researchers with the doctorate level; In addition, documentation of policies, regulations, scientific articles and publications in digital communication journals were reviewed. The analysis was developed using the statistical package for the social sciences and a categorization matrix. The main results reflected that there is a demand for the training of human talents in the doctorate degree to reach the research competitiveness, development and innovation levels; as well as a demand from the professionals with a master’s degree for carrying out doctoral studies. Likewise, there are physical, financial and human resources to develop the doctoral program. All of the above allows us to endorse the need to train intercultural studies doctors that respond to the needs and aspirations of the Caribbean Coast and Ab’ya Yala peoples.