Doctor of Philosophy in Architecture

1- Knowledge and Understanding:

-Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of architectural and building science theories, key principles and concepts required to produce a substantial and innovative contribution to a specialist area of research.

-Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of processes, methodologies, practices, and terminology within the fields of architecture and building science.

2-Skills:

-Synthesize concepts, theories or arguments, formulate research questions and research design.

-Improve logic and reasoning skills to critically review existing literature, evaluate solutions, reflect on and adopt an innovative solution.

-Develop student skills in designing and conducting appropriate scientific research methodologies in the field of architecture and building science to develop advanced and new research.

-Demonstrate effective scientific and professional communication skills when defending concepts and claims.

-Develop analytical skills in research including the ability to interpret and apply quantitative and qualitative data.

3-Values 

-Uphold the highest standards of academic integrity and professional ethics And demonstrate a commitment to responsible and ethical research practices.

-Develop a strong sense of professional responsibility and accountability.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in architecture, architectural engineering, or a closely related engineering field (e.g., urban design, interior architecture, or environmental architecture) from KSU or an equivalent accredited university.

A full-time Bachelor’s degree (at least 5 years) in architecture or architectural engineering is also typically required.

GPA Standards: A minimum cumulative GPA of “Very Good” (3.75/5.0 or equivalent) is generally required for both undergraduate and master’s degrees.

Language Proficiency:

• • A minimum score of 53 on the TOEFL-iBT (or 450 on the PBT/equivalent) is required.
  • Applicants with a Master’s degree from a university where English was the primary language of instruction may be exempted.

Research Proposal & Purpose: Submission of a Statement of Purpose (approx. 500 words) detailing the applicant’s background, research interests, and a specific research proposal.

Departmental Evaluation: Candidates must pass a personal interview conducted by the Department of Architecture and Building Sciences.

Recommendations: Two to three academic letters of recommendation from professors who have taught the applicant.

Professional Approval: Official written approval from the employer if the applicant is currently employed.

Aptitude Test: A score of at least 70 in the General Aptitude Test (GAT) for university students is typically required.

Coursework Phase – Departmental Courses

ARCH600 – Advanced Architectural Theory – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH601 – Research Methods in Architecture – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH602 – Sustainable Design Strategies – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH603 – Digital Design and Modeling – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH604 – Urban Design and Planning – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH605 – Architectural History and Criticism – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH606 – Advanced Construction Systems – 3 Credit Hours
ARCH607 – Professional Practice in Architecture – 1 Credit Hour

Coursework Phase – University/Interdisciplinary Courses

UNIV610 – Research Ethics and Academic Integrity – 2 Credit Hours
UNIV611 – Advanced Statistics for Design Research – 2 Credit Hours
UNIV612 – Elective in Specialized Field – 2 Credit Hours

Comprehensive Examination Phase

ARCH699 – Comprehensive Examination in Architectural Theories – 0 Credit Hours
Requirement: Demonstrate mastery of departmental and interdisciplinary knowledge to advance to candidacy.

Dissertation Phase

ARCH700 – Doctoral Dissertation in Architecture – 16 Credit Hours
Requirement: Conduct original research, prepare a scientific thesis, and successfully defend it before the committee.

Summary of Credit Hours

• Departmental Courses: 16 Credit Hours

• University Courses: 6 Credit Hours

• Dissertation: 16 Credit Hours

• Total Credit Hours: 38