How do I Earn an Architecture PhD?

Many universities around the world offer graduate programs in architectural studies. Out of these institutions, several grant PhDs — or Doctorates of Philosophy — in architecture. As with most PhD programs in other disciplines, the length of time necessary to earn a doctorate in architecture is variable, but typically in the range of four to six years. Those wishing to earn an architecture PhD must first earn a bachelor's degree in a related field, and some schools may require candidates to earn a master's degree as well prior to applying to a PhD program.

The process of obtaining an Architecture PhD first begins with the application and admission to an institution of higher education offering graduate programs in Architecture. For highly-ranked programs, admissions rates can be as low as 3%. Therefore, it is important for a person to have a strong resume, proving that he or she is a competitive applicant, both academically and in terms of relevant skills and work experience. The best way to prepare academically for the majority of graduate programs in Architecture is by first earning an undergraduate degree in Architecture or some related field, such as civil engineering.

When applying to Architecture PhD programs, it is important to note that many schools do not simply grant PhD’s in general Architectural studies, but require candidates to choose more specific fields. For example, some programs may be subdivided into two different tracks: History of Architecture and Urban Development, and City and Regional Planning, for example. Other post-professional Architecture PhD programs may be separated into concentrations such as Urban Design, Cultural Meditations and Technology, and History of Architecture.

The number of years or semesters spent pursuing an Architecture PhD depends on several factors. Some of these determinants may include the specific curriculum of the school and classroom credit requirements. Other considerations include the number of hours spent in apprenticeship or gaining field experience throughout the program and the individual’s own motivation and success in completing his or her thesis project.

Prior to accepting an admissions offer from a PhD program in Architecture — or even applying to such a program — one should consider the advantages, disadvantages, and alternatives to post-graduate work in Architecture. For instance, though people often pursue additional degrees in order to have access to higher-paying jobs, in the field of Architecture, a specialized undergraduate degree in the subject, coupled with work experience, has typically been shown to be one of the best way to get jobs as an Architect. This is because most PhD programs in Architecture focus on the more theoretical aspects of the subjects, rather than on the development of more practical skills and experience that are most useful in the work force.

Instead of applying to PhD programs in Architecture, it is not unusual for graduates of bachelors programs in Architecture to pursue post-graduate programs in related fields, such as Civil Engineering. Lastly, one must consider the monetary cost of attending an institution of higher education in pursuit of a PhD. Though many schools grant financial aid and stipends to their PhD candidates, this is not necessarily guaranteed at all schools for people of all financial backgrounds.