Successful thesis proposals in architecture and urban planning
Archnet-IJAR
ISSN : 2631-6862
Article publication date: 1 May 2020
Issue publication date: 11 November 2020
The purpose of this research is to improve the understanding of what constitutes a successful thesis proposal (TP) and as such enhance the quality of the TP writing in architecture, planning and related disciplines.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on extended personal experience and a review of relevant literature, the authors proposed a conception of a successful TP comprising 13 standard components. The conception provides specific definition/s, attributes and success rules for each component. The conception was applied for 15 years on several batches of Saudi graduate students. The implications of the conception were assessed by a students' opinion survey. An expert inquiry of experienced academics from architectural schools in nine countries was applied to validate and improve the conception.
Assessment of the proposed conception demonstrated several positive implications on students' knowledge, performance and outputs which illustrates its applicability in real life. Experts' validation of the conception and constructive remarks have enabled further improvements on the definitions, attributes and success rules of the TP components.
Research limitations/implications
The proposed TP conception with its 13 components is limited to standard problem-solving research and will differ in the case of other types such as hypothesis-based research.
Practical implications
The proposed conception is a useful directive and evaluative tool for writing and assessing thesis proposals for graduate students, academic advisors and examiners.
Social implications
The research contributes to improving the quality of thesis production process among the academic community in the built environment fields.
Originality/value
The paper is meant to alleviate the confusion and hardship caused by the absence of a consensus on what constitutes a successful TP in the fields of architecture, urban planning and related disciplines.
Urban planning
Architecture
Built environment
Postgraduate research
Writing successful thesis proposals
Abdellatif, M. and Abdellatif, R. (2020), "Successful thesis proposals in architecture and urban planning", Archnet-IJAR , Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 503-524. https://doi.org/10.1108/ARCH-12-2019-0281
Published by Emerald Publishing Limited. This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) licence. Anyone may reproduce, distribute, translate and create derivative works of this article (for both commercial and non-commercial purposes), subject to full attribution to the original publication and authors. The full terms of this licence may be seen at http://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode .
1. Introduction
After the postgraduate student completes her/his coursework in a master programme or passes the comprehensive exam and becomes a doctoral candidate in a doctoral programme, s/he is allowed to submit a “Thesis Proposal” (TP) to her/his department whose main concern is to assess whether the topic is suitable for a graduate study and for the time and resources available ( Afful, 2008 ; Kivunja, 2016 ; Reddy, 2019 ).
The department then sends the submitted TP to higher bodies for official approval. Once approved, the TP becomes a legal binding or “a formal contract” ( Walliman, 2017 ) and “a statement of intent” ( Hofstee, 2006 ) between the researcher and the university. If the student adheres to all prescribed TP requirements within the specified time, s/he will be awarded the degree ( Leo, 2019 ).
Guided by his/her academic advisor, the student prepares the TP within which the researcher explains the research problem, questions, aim and objectives, scope, and methodologies to describe, analyse and synthesize the research problem and develop solutions for it ( Paltridge and Starfield, 2007 ). In addition, the proposal includes a brief about research significance and expected contributions; a preliminary review of literature; thesis structure and approximate completion timeline; and a list of relevant references ( Kivunja, 2016 ; Thomas, 2016 ; Kornuta and Germaine, 2019 ).
1.1 Statement of the problem and research aim
After decades of writing, supervising and refereeing master and doctoral theses in the fields of Architecture and Urban Planning, the authors noticed that TP's differ in format and content from a school to another. This may be considered a healthy matter because it gives room for flexibility that absorbs the variety of research problems and techniques. Yet, the absence of a consensus on what constitutes a successful TP could cause confusion and hardship to both students and advisors ( Kamler and Thomson, 2008 ; Abdulai and Owusu-Ansah, 2014 ). The review of literature indicates that TP writing has been tackled in depth in many fields (see for instance Gonzalez, 2007 ; Balakumar et al. , 2013 ; Eco, 2015 ; Kivunja, 2016 ; Glatthorn and Randy, 2018 ; Kornuta and Germaine, 2019 ). Apart from thesis proposal instruction and guideline manuals posted on universities' websites, the authors believe that there is a lack of in-depth research on the issue of producing successful thesis proposals in the fields of Architecture and Planning.
To propose a successful TP conception which determines the standard components of TP and sets specific definitions, attributes and rules of success for each component.
To apply the proposed conception on several batches of graduate students, then assess its impact on students' performance and output along the years of application.
To validate the proposed conception by getting the insights of experienced academics from architecture and planning schools worldwide, and as such, improve and finalize the conception.
1.2 Research methodology
To propose the Successful TP Conception , the authors relied on two sources: knowledge extracted from their extended experience and a review of relevant studies and instruction manuals and guidelines for preparing TP in several worldwide universities. The Conception has been applied on several batches of master and doctoral students from IAU, KSA for almost 15 years between 2005 and 2020 during their enrolment in three courses in the College of Architecture and Planning, IAU, KSA. These courses are “ARPL 603 Research Methods” and “BISC 600 Research Methods” for the master's level and “URPL 803 Seminar (3): Doctoral Research Methods” for the doctoral level.
From a total of 60 students, 39 students (65%) completed the survey; of whom 12 students (31%) were doctoral and 27 students (69%) were masters students.
- Improve their understanding of the components of a successful TP.
- Enhance their performance in developing their TP's.
- Conduct a more effective self-assessment of their developed TP's.
- Enhance their performance along other stages of producing their theses and dissertations.
- Maintain any other benefits adding to students' research capabilities.
The first part recorded the general characteristics of respondents.
The second inquired about experts' viewpoints on the definitions, attributes and the rules of success of the components of the proposed TP conception.
2. Proposing the Successful TP Conception
2.1 components of a tp for a standard problem-solving research type.
A review of thesis writing guidelines posted on universities' websites and other related literature has indicated that the number of components of a masters' or doctoral thesis proposal varies. After a thorough review of related literature and with their experience, the authors have been convinced that, in its standard form, a TP should include 13 components. Chronically arranged, as appearing in the proposal, they are: title page, abstract, keywords, background, statement of the problem, research questions, research aim and objectives, research scope, research significance and contributions, preliminary review of literature, research methodology, thesis structure and timeline, and references list ( Ostler, 1996 ; Simpson and Turner, 2004 ; Zhou, 2004 ; Davies, 2011 ; Axelrod and Windell, 2012 ; Donohue, 2018 ; Glatthorn and Randy, 2018 ; Kornuta and Germaine, 2019 ). It is worth mentioning that these 13 components will differ in the case of a hypothesis-based research whose aim is to validate a specific hypothesis that a specific variable/s is/are or is/are not the main cause/s of an investigated research problem. This paper is limited only to the standard problem-solving research type.
2.2 Building the Successful TP Conception
Setting a general definition for each component including its meaning, importance, functions and contents.
Outlining the most important attributes that must be considered when writing the component.
Based on step 1 and 2, the authors extracted a list of success rules which provides a concise definition for each component of the TP, and/or describes the relationship between the component and other components of the TP (the list is summarized at the end of Part 2).
2.2.1 Research title
This is the first item that appears to the reader. It invites or detains him/her from proceeding to other contents ( Blaxter et al. , 2010 ). The research title is positioned in the title page along with several basic data, namely, the title; the names of the Department, College, University, study programme, researcher and advisory committee; and submission date.
The research title should be useful, discussing an issue critical to society; true, conveying a real message about the investigated problem ( Donohue, 2018 ); concise, presenting the message with the minimum number of words; adequate, using the right wording to explain the intended meaning; and attractive , stimulating the reader's attention. Iterations in refining the research title go hand-in-hand with refining the research question ( Groat and Wang, 2013 ).
2.2.2 The abstract
It is the first item that appears in the TP after the title and of the same significance; yet, it is the last to be written ( Kornuta and Germaine, 2019 ). It has a marketing function ( Lamanauskas, 2019 ); it calls the reader in or alienates him out. A comprehensive abstract contains a summary of the problem, aim, scope, methodology, importance, contributions and outline ( Koopman, 1997 ).
The Abstract should be concise or brief with a maximum of 200–300 words; adequate, including profiles of all parts of the proposal; clear, expressing its message without ambiguity; and interrelated, serving as a body of sequential, coherent and connected ideas ( Blaxter et al. , 2010 ).
2.2.3 The keywords
These are a set of words or terms used for archiving, tabulation and electronic search on databases. They should include essential “subject terms” describing the research topic, the unique sub-specializations and focus of the research (what is researched), the contextual scope of the research (where and when), and the used research methodology (how to conduct the research) ( Lamanauskas, 2019 ). They are better written by splitting the title into its separate single words or terms which must be found in the abstract, as well ( Mack, 2012 ).
Keywords should be brief, not more than 8–12 words; adequate, conveying the research theme, scope, aim and approach; exact, focusing on the investigated topic and scope; and standard, using scientific terminology used in the field.
2.2.4 The background
This is a gradual preparation of the reader from the larger scientific field to the specific field, from the wider geographic area to the immediate area, and from the larger timeframe to the immediate one. It starts from the strategic level and general scope of the research and gradually reaches the level closer to the examined problem ( Abdellatif and Abdellatif, 2005 ). It places the study within the larger context of the research, creates interest to the reader and catches his attention, and includes quotations and statistics leading the reader to proceed ( Babbie, 2014 ).
The background statement should be striking, drawing the reader's attention to the research; brief, not lengthy; gradual, moving from the general level surrounding the investigated issue to the specific level; and careful, not speeding up in disclosing the study problem, aim or methodology to the reader ( Axelrod and Windell, 2012 ; Pautasso, 2013 ).
2.2.5 The statement of the problem
Statement of the General Research Problem is a narrative describing a negative aspect/s prevailing in the investigated urban environment/ecosystem or architectural setting; it is equivalent to the negative wording of the research aim ( Abdellatif and Abdellatif, 2005 ). It stimulates interest in the study; scientifically explained to convey a simple, clear and specific issue to which a reader can relate and is useful to the society at large ( Balakumar et al. , 2013 ). In the humanities and social sciences many dissertations endeavour to establish the conditions of the problem, not to solve it ( Dorst, 2011 ).
In formulating the research problem, it is useful to consider it a problem which hinders the natural development of the society and/or environment and leads to a decline in the Quality of Life (QOL) or Quality of Environment (QOE) or both. A development problem is a factor/cause leading to either a quantitative or qualitative deficiency in satisfying a human need or both such as a lack of certain service or inadequate provision of the service ( Abdellatif, 2015 ). To arrive at a successful statement of the general problem, the researcher should pinpoint the main cause/s behind the study problem. All what comes next depends on the clarity of the problem statement.
Technically oriented research (TOR), which places emphasis on the process and procedures as the primary basis of effective design, TOR can be either systematic, or computational, or managerial.
Conceptually driven research (CDR), which can be either psychological or person–environment. The psychological type is driven by the goal of matching knowledge with the nature of the design problem, its components, context and social and environmental requirements. Whereas, the person–environment type places emphasis on the socio-cultural and socio-behavioural factors as they relate to the design process itself and to settings, buildings and urban environments.
Classify the investigated situation to branched dimensions, e.g. demographic, planning, regulatory, economic, social, environmental, etc.
Trace the causes or the influencing factors that lead to the emergence or aggravation of the problem/s in each dimension.
Clarify the problem more by identifying the consequences or adverse effects (the symptoms of the problem) that resulted from those causes. This helps isolate the causes from the consequences to focus on treating the causes not the consequences. Using temporary painkillers will not eliminate the disease; it only tranquilizes the symptoms.
Statement of the consequences of the problem is a narrative that describes the negative effects caused by sub-problems on the investigated environment ( Goetz et al. , 2005 ).
The statement of consequences of the problem should be focused, where each consequence focuses on one independent sub-problem; articulate, not overlapping with other consequences; rooted, relating to one of the roots of the general problems; deep, providing description for specific symptom; and comprehended, could be perceived, described and determined ( Abdellatif, 2015 ).
2.2.6 Research questions
What is the nature of the development problem as defined by the latest findings of previous literature, similar studies and published statistical reports?
What are the key features of the investigated problem according to a direct field survey?
What are the appropriate links between different variables of the study (causes, consequences, etc.) according to the information gathered from the theoretical review and field surveys?
What are the extracted results and the appropriate solutions and/or recommendations to deal with the general research problem and its sub-problems?
What are the critical contributions of the research findings on the life and/or environmental qualities?
How can the research increase the benefits of research results on the ground?
What are the research areas/points that need further investigation?
Research questions should be specific, each question addresses one sub-problem; unduplicated, each question does not repeat itself in a different format; sequential, or arranged according to their importance and order; and interrelated, where each question relates to other questions.
2.2.7 Research aim, goals and objectives
The general aim of the research is a specific and clear statement presenting the overall purpose of the study. It is directed to find an appropriate and effective solution to the general research problem ( Donohue, 2018 ). It is an attempt to fill a gap between a negative reality of an environment/ecosystem/or development situation and a desired positive future to be achieved at the end of the research process ( Glatthorn and Randy, 2018 ). The aim should be properly stated to ensure the success of all the following stages of the scientific research process.
Exploring the problem by defining the research problem, formulating aim and objectives, designing the methodology, defining the scope, and highlighting the expected contributions.
Collecting secondary data by defining basic concepts and terms, reviewing relevant literature and previous studies, and describing the most important characteristics of the investigated environment from secondary sources and statistical reports.
Collecting primary data via direct field surveys and based on the views of concerned population, experts and officials to describe the characteristics of the investigated development problem.
Analysing the gathered data by using theoretical and field data to determine the appropriate links among different variables of the study (e.g. causes, consequences, etc.).
Synthesizing the gathered data by integrating the findings of analysis to build appropriate approaches or solutions to deal with the general problem.
Extracting conclusions and writing recommendations to highlight research findings and make them more useful and effective.
A micro level objective contributes to solving the specific investigated problem (e.g. a specific quantitative or qualitative problem that hinders the development of a sector of society, environment, or eco-system).
A macro level objective contributes to realizing a higher goal (e.g. improving the overall quality of life of a larger community, upgrading the quality of the larger environment, etc.).
Development objectives should apply the SMART goal rule (previously explained); and be non-overlapping by ensuring that each objective is focused and not conflicting with other objectives.
2.2.8 Research scope
Thematic scope clarifies the general and specific areas of the research (e.g. the research falls within the field of sustainable development in general and focuses on social sustainability).
Geographic/Spatial scope specifies the spatial boundaries of the physical environment within which the research is applied (e.g. a specific local or regional setting).
Temporal scope shows the past, present and future spans the research will cover indicating the number of years from the historical information inventory until the expected completion date. If the research aim is to develop future strategies or policies, the span will extend to future target point.
Research Scope should be categorized, by being classified by subject, place and time; focused, by reaching the closest limits of the investigated research problem, environment and time; and clear, by not being so general or ambiguous.
2.2.9 Research significance and contributions
They highlight the most important benefits and the main beneficiaries from solving the research problem; the potential positive impacts of the study on the life and environmental qualities ( Groat and Wang, 2013 ). Contributions differ in nature (theoretical or applied or both) and in size (huge, average, or marginal). There is a positive relationship between the size of contributions and the size of impacted beneficiaries (individuals, groups, institutions, communities, societies), the scale of the impacted geographic boundaries (local, national or global), the type of impacted development sectors (service, production, etc.) and the numbers of the impacted sectors (one, a few, or all sectors). Research significance increases as the size of contributions increases. Specifying the research significance, expected contributions and potential beneficiaries helps promote the research and provides rational justifications for conducting it. The higher the contributions and the greater the sectors of the beneficiaries, the more significant the research is ( Abdellatif and Abdellatif, 2005 ). According to Balakumar et al. (2013) research significance justifies the need for the research that is being proposed.
Research significance and expected contributions should be categorized, in terms of type (theoretical or applied contribution or both), size and nature of the beneficiaries (individuals, institutions, communities, etc.) and geographical extent (small site, district, city, region, nation, etc.); clear, simple and comprehensible to the reader; and realistic, real, accurate and not exaggerated.
2.2.10 The preliminary review of literature
This is an initial review of literature dealt with relevant problems. It aims to build an initial understanding of the problem, identify the most important variables that have been considered, cite methodologies used to deal with the problem; make use of the latest findings and record the various recommendations/solutions suggested to deal with the problem ( Hart, 1998 ; Grix, 2001 ). According to Dunleavy (2003) , it is a critical review on related recent research that is well documented, structured, analysed and synthesized. It offers the researcher an opportunity to engage with other scholars in one's disciplinary community.
In addition to having a separate part, it is useful to combine the literature review with other components of the TP (e.g. the research problem, questions, aim and objectives, and methodology). It is important that the review presents differing perspectives or contrasting views of the topic and reports the complexities of the issue ( Kornuta and Germaine, 2019 ). By conducting the review, the researcher becomes able to build an initial but comprehensive understanding of the causes and consequences of the problem, the methodologies used to study and analyse the problem and the solutions proposed to deal with it by synthesizing various viewpoints of previous studies, thereby, supporting her/his principle argument about the study problem with the results derived from previous literature ( Pautasso, 2013 ).
Definitions of key terms and concepts; standard terms to appear in the research and special concepts which are not formally provided by previous scholars. The definitions must be logic and derived from scientifically recognized sources.
Review of previous studies; focusing on identifying several issues, namely, the most important dimensions and variables of the research problem (the causes of the problem; why the problem has emerged or aggravated; the most important consequences of this problem on the human and/or physical environment); the methods used to deal with the problem; the latest findings of previous studies and the various approaches/solutions suggested to deal with the problem.
Contextual aspects of the investigated development situation; including a review of relevant characteristics of the researched environment (its basic dimensions and elements) as found in previous studies. Contextual aspects may be classified into physical and human components; or into environmental, functional, aesthetic, structural, economic and social design determinants; or into demographic, planning, regulatory, economic, social, environmental sectors or other classifications.
Preliminary review of literature should be indexed, from reliable scholarly sources; categorized or documented according to standard classification system; employed, used wisely to achieve a desired purpose; up to date, recent, however, in topics which address chronological development or evolutionary aspects references could be recent and old; and related, relevant to the study problem ( Hart, 1998 ).
2.2.11 Research methodology
Data collection methods including office methods used to collect secondary data from previous literature and case studies as well as field methods used to gather original data through field visits, surveying, questionnaires, interviews with stakeholders, etc.
Data analysis methods including methods used to analyse both the secondary and primary information collected from office and the field surveys such as Statistical Analysis, Environmental Scanning (SWOT), Development Components Analysis, etc.
Data synthesis methods including methods used to compile, synthesize the analysis and develop appropriate alternative scenarios or solutions to deal with the problem.
Data presentation methods including methods to present the research process and findings such as scientific research paper containing narratives, tables, figures, forms, maps, results and recommendations as well as final visual presentation to review panel to get remarks and write the last version of the TP.
Research methodology should be appropriate, aligned with the purpose/s in which they will be used; achievable, within the reach of the researcher; effective, achieving the purpose fast and with high quality; reliable, previously tested, applied and approved in similar cases; and precise, accurate and specific.
2.2.12 Research structure and timeline
This is a brief statement of the main sections of the master's/doctoral thesis with tentative dates for completing the various stages of the research. Careful preparation of research structure and timeline ensures the effectiveness and integrity of the plan of actions towards the completion of the study ( Kivunja, 2016 ). It is also a criterion to judge the achieved progress and seriousness of the researcher.
Research structure and timeline should be sequential, arranged according to a standard scientific research process; logical, proportionate to the total period available for completion; and balanced, distributing time properly among various stages.
2.2.13 The list of references
This is a list which contains a reasonable number of relevant references on the topic which were actually cited in the TP ( Kornuta and Germaine, 2019 ). Including a list of the references about the topic demonstrates that the researcher is familiar with the basic and latest knowledge on his/her problem.
The list of references should be relevant, closely related to the investigated subject; up to date, recent yet containing old and new according the topic and context; and reliable, published in dependable vessels.
2.3 Extracting the success rules
Based on the above definitions and attributes provided for each of the 13 TP components, the authors were able to extract a number of success rules that took the form of equations, each of which describes an equality function between each component and its counterpart component/s as shown in Table 1 . For instance, rule #1 shows that “research title” is equal to “the general aim of the research” and is equal to “the negative wording of the research problem”.
3. Assessing the Successful TP Conception from students' viewpoints
They better understood the meanings of each component (97% agree and strongly agree and 3% neutral).
They better understood the attributes of each component (94% agree and strongly agree and 6% neutral).
They better understood the rules which control the relations between the various components of the TP (87% agree and strongly agree and 13% neutral).
The process of writing the proposal has become easier and more convenient (100% agree and strongly agree).
The effort, cost and time spent in submitting the proposal have been substantially saved (87% agree and strongly and 12% neutral).
The relationship with academic advisor has improved (87% agree and strongly agree and 12% neutral).
The students' confidence in advancing their own learning abilities has improved (93% agree and strongly agree and 7% neutral).
The students' abilities to address the strengths and weaknesses of their personal skills have improved (93% agree and strongly agree and 7% neutral).
The students' abilities to manage their learning process more independently have improved (90% agree and strongly agree, 7% neutral and 3% disagree).
The students have created a clearer and better mutual understanding with their academic advisors (90% agree and strongly agree and 10% neutral).
The students have reduced their distraction from the original target set out in the proposal (81% agree and strongly agree, 16% neutral and 3% disagree).
The students have been able to finish their research on time (78% agree and strongly agree, 19% neutral and 3% disagree).
They gained better analytical skills (87% agree and strongly agree, 10% neutral and 3% disagree).
They gained better problem-solving skills (87% agree and strongly agree, 10% neutral and 3% disagree).
They gained better critical thinking skills (87% agree and strongly agree, 10% neutral and 3% disagree).
4. Verifying the Successful TP Conception based on experts' viewpoints
Having proposed, applied and assessed the Successful TP Conception, it becomes important to validate it using the insights of experienced academics from Architectural and Planning schools worldwide. This part summarizes the results of the experts' inquiry survey conducted in November 2019 to February 2020. It shows the characteristics of experts and their viewpoints and remarks on the originally proposed definitions, attributes and success rules.
4.1 Experts' characteristics
They were from nine countries, namely, the United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.
About 75% of the experts were males and 25% were females. About 5% were 35–45 years old, 20% were 45–55 years, 55% were 55–65 years and 20% were 65 years and over.
About 5% were Assistant Professors, 10% Associate Professors and the majority (85%) were Professors.
The experts had teaching experiences in undergraduate and graduate levels (masters, doctoral, diploma, postdoctoral and continuing professional development).
The general specialization of 70% of the experts was Architecture and 30% of experts were specialized in Urban Planning. They taught in several built environment fields (Architecture, Interior Design, Building Technology, Urban Design, Landscape Architecture and Urban and Regional Planning).
The experts had several focus areas, namely, Architecture, History and Theories of Architecture, Assessment of Designed Environments, Design Methods, Pedagogy, Architecture and Digital Technologies, Heritage Conservation, Middle East Architecture and Cities, Construction Project Management, Urban Design, Spatial Development Planning, Landscape, Built Environment and Behaviour, Urban Studies, Techniques and Quantitative Methods of Urban Planning, Urban Conflict, Urban Justice, Community Development, Environmental Management and Planning and Development Approaches.
About 10% of the experts supervised 5 theses, 5% supervised 6–10 theses, 50% supervised 11–20 theses and 35% supervised more than 20 theses.
4.2 Experts' viewpoints and remarks
Concerning the proposed definitions of the TP components, the experts expressed their agreement which ranged between 73 and 96%. Some experts provided additional remarks to help improve the definitions. Table 2 presents the originally proposed definitions, the percentages of agreed experts and their additional remarks.
Regarding the attributes of each component of the TP, the original conception proposed 38 attributes, the experts added 18 attributes resulting in a total of 56 attributes. Table 3 presents a matrix showing the percentages of experts' agreement of the originally proposed attributes as well as the added attributes. The lowest agreement percentage was 59% and the highest was 96%.
Concerning the proposed success rules which were called “equations” in the originally proposed conception, the experts suggested to change the expression into “rules”; which is more appropriate for subjective contents than mathematical expression. Table 4 presents the final 19 success rules for the components/sub-components of a TP and the percentage of experts' agreement which ranged between 57 and 95%.
5. Conclusion
Based on their experience in preparing and supervising masters and doctoral theses and after a thorough review of the literature on preparing thesis proposals, the authors drafted a conception of a successful thesis proposal comprising specific definitions, attributes and rules for each of the 13 components of a standard TP. The conception had been applied over a duration of 15 years (2005–2020) on several batches of master and doctoral students in IAU, KSA. Through an online survey, the majority of students (78–100%) have indicated that understanding and applying the conception helped them improve their performances and outputs during the TP development process and beyond.
The conception was then validated by getting the insights of 39 experienced academics from worldwide architectural schools. The experts accepted the proposed definitions with (73–96%) agreement rate. The experts also accepted the proposed attributes with (59–96%) agreement rate. As for the success rules, the experts' agreed as well with an acceptance rate ranging from (57–95%). The experts suggested constructive remarks which were considered in writing the final version of the conception.
The extracted success rules combine the definitions and attributes of each component of the TP and present them in a concise statement which defines the component and, where applicable, exemplifies its relationship to another corresponding or counterpart component of the TP. For example, rule #1 shows that “research title” should reflect “the general aim and scope of the research” and should also reflect “the negative wording of the research problem”. Extracted also is rule #14 which indicates that “the whole thesis proposal” written in future tenses, should resemble “the introduction of the final thesis” written in past tenses.
A directive tool that assists the researcher in writing a sound TP. Combining the last three tables (2, 3 and 4) into a comprehensive checklist would aid the students in preparing their TP's; enhancing the quality of their performance and outputs.
An evaluative tool that helps in assessing the validity and integrity of the submitted TP's that can be used by the researcher for self-assessment, or by the academic advisor, or by an examiner/evaluator before sending the proposal to higher authorities for approval.
The findings of this paper could be useful not only in evaluating thesis proposals, but also, with proper modifications, in assessing various scientific research documents, including scientific thesis, research papers and others; which is another research topic that will be addressed in the future.
The stages of developing the successful thesis proposal conception
Proposed list of success rules for the TP components
#
Research proposal component
Equals
The corresponding component
1
Research title
=
The general aim of the research
=
Solving the main research problem
2
The abstract
=
Profiles of all components of the research proposal
3
Keywords
=
Title in a fragmented manner
=
Words that compose the research title
4
Background
=
Gradual preparation of the reader to enter the study
5
The statement of the problem
5–1
General problem of research
=
The main cause of quantitative or qualitative deficiency in the investigated environment
5–2
Research sub-problems
=
The secondary causes of each sub-problem of the general problem
5–3
Research consequences
=
Subsidiary symptoms of the general illness of the examined environment
6
Research questions
=
Presenting general problem and sub-problems of the research in the question format
7
Research aims, goals and objectives
=
Specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely goals
7–1
General aim of the research
=
Solving the general problem of the research
7–2
Procedural objectives of the research
=
Research stages
=
Sections or chapters of the thesis
7–3
Development objectives of the research
=
Solving sub-problems of the study
=
Finding a cure for the secondary causes of the problem
8
The scope of the research
=
Thematic, geographical and temporal limits of the study
9
Importance of the study and expected contributions
=
expected positive impacts of research (theoretical, practical or both)
10
Preliminary review of literature
=
Building a comprehensive conception from previous studies about the causes and consequences of the problem, the methodologies used to understand and analyse it, the most important findings and the solutions developed to deal with it
11
Research methodology
=
Techniques, methods and tools used in each stage of study
12
Research skeleton and completion timeline
=
Main chapters of research along the completion timeline
=
Stages of the scientific research process along the completion timeline
12
List of references
=
Latest local and international references about the research
14
Thesis proposal (using future tenses)
=
General introduction of the final thesis (Using past tenses)
: Prepared by the authors based on the above definitions and attributes of the TP components
#
Component of a thesis proposal
% of experts agreement of
Experts additional remarks
Proposed definition
%
1
Research title
The first item that appears to the reader. It invites the reader to proceed to other contents
73
It should be reflective of research topic, questions, objectives, content and approach and convey the aim, the purpose, the scope and the outcome
2
The abstract
The first item that appears in the TP after the title and of the same significance. It calls the reader in or alienates him out
79
Although some experts commented that in several schools an abstract is not a compulsory component of TP, 79% of the experts agreed that the abstract is needed
3
Keywords
A set of words or terms used for archiving, tabulation and electronic search on databases
75
Keywords are better written by splitting the title into its separate single words or terms. They should include essential terms describing the research topic, the unique sub-specializations and focus of the research (what is researched), the contextual scope of the research (where and when) and the used research methodology (how to conduct the research)
4
Background
A gradual preparation from the larger scientific field to the specific field, from wider geographic area to the immediate area, and from the strategic level to the level closer to the examined problem
74
The background should place the study within the larger context of the research, create interest to the reader and catch his attention, help him understand why the study is significant, include limitation and arguments of pervious research, and include quotations and statistics leading the reader to go to the next component of the TP
5
Statement of the problem
5–1
Statement of the general research problem
A narrative describing a negative situation prevailing in the investigated urban environment/ecosystem or architectural setting
92
A statement which stimulates interest in the study; scientifically explained to convey a simple, clear and specific issue to which a reader can relate”; “equivalent to the negative wording of the research aim”; and “in the humanities and social sciences many dissertations endeavour to establish the conditions of the problem, not to solve it
5–2
Statement of the research sub-problems
A narrative that describes the general problem in detail; sub-problems are simply the various causes of the general problem
84
One expert commented that “the above definition is valid and useful in causal research types only; other research types might consider different approaches”
5–3
Consequences of the problem
A narrative that describes the effects of sub-problems on the investigated environment
83
None
6
Research questions
A set of questions the research tries to answer. Each question usually covers one of the research sub-problems
96
None
7
Research aim/goal/objectives
The goal should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely
96
None
7–1
General aim of the research
A specific and clear statement presenting the overall purpose of the study
96
None
7–2
Procedural objectives of the research
The sub-goals emanating from the main aim of the study. They provide a roadmap and illustrate important stages leading to sequential targets towards achieving the general aim
79
They are articulated sub-goals that in their totality compose the main research aim
7–3
Development objectives of the research
The objectives which focus on solving the research sub-problems and eventually solving the main problem of the investigated situation
74
None
8
Research scope
A statement which defines the thematic, geographical/spatial and temporal limits of research
None
9
Research significance and contributions
Highlight potential positive impacts of the study on the life and environmental qualities
87
Expected contributions can only be tentative in the early research proposal stage, the researcher must remain open to unexpected findings upon the finishing stage of his/her study
10
Preliminary review of literature
Builds an initial understanding of the problem, identify the most important variables considered, cite methodologies used; make use of the latest findings and record the various recommendations/solutions suggested
91
Related directly to the stated research questions; identify areas of controversy in the literature; describe the relationship of each work to others; point the way forward for further research; and be organized into categories or themes
11
Research methodology
Contains explanation of the appropriate methods to be used in data collection, analysis, synthesis and presentation; for the extraction of results; and for the development of appropriate approaches or solutions to deal with the research problem
82
None
12
Research structure and timeline
A brief statement of the main sections of the master's/doctoral thesis arranged on the tentative dates for completing the various stages of the research
95
None
13
List of references
A list which contains a reasonable number of relevant references on the topic
82
None
: Prepared by the authors based on the above analysis and the results of expert inquiry
An extracted list of success rules for thesis proposals
Rule #
% of experts agreed
Success rule
Component of a thesis proposal
Relationship nature (→)
Its concise definition (and/or) its relationship to another component/s
1
60%
Research title
Should reflect
The general aim and scope of the research
The negative wording of the research problem
2
75%
The abstract
Should be
A concise brief of all necessary components of the research proposal
3
74%
Keywords
Should include
Terms representing research title, topic, unique sub-specializations, methodology and scope
4
74%
Research background
Should cover
A gradual contextual literary analysis relevant to the study preparing the reader to enter the study
5
The statement of the problem
5–1
73%
Statement of the general research problem
Should reflect
The main cause of a quantitative and/or qualitative deficiency in the environment under investigation
The negative wording of the research aim
5–2
80%
Research sub-problems
Should describe
The subsidiary causes of the main problem
5–3
79%
Consequences of the Problem
Should describe
Subsidiary symptoms of the general illness of the examined environment
6
79%
Research questions
Should rephrase
The research sub-problems in a question format
The research objectives in a question format
7
63%
Research aims, goals and objectives
Should be
SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely)
7–1
63%
General aim of the research
Should reflect
A target responding to the general research problem/question
A potential alternative scenario that may enable the development of solutions
The research title with the same or different wording
7–2
57%
Procedural objectives of the research
Should articulate/represent
The sub-goals that compose the main research aim
The stages of the research
The sections or chapters of the thesis
7–3
70%
Development objectives of the research
Should reflect
Targeted solutions to the sub-problems of the study
Targeted possible cures/fixes for the subsidiary causes of the problem
8
83%
Research scope
Should cover
Thematic, geographic and temporal limits of the study
9
87%
Research significance and contributions
Should highlight
The expected positive theoretical or practical impacts of the research or both
10
95%
Preliminary review of literature
Should cover
A well-documented, structured, analysed and synthesized critical review of relevant research
11
82%
Research methodology
Should explain
The methods, techniques and tools used to accomplish the research objectives in each stage of the study
12
82%
Research structure and timeline
Should articulate/represent
The stages/phases of the research and their expected completion dates
The main chapters of the research distributed along the completion timeline
13
77%
List of references
Should present
The references relevant to the research problem
14
General rule
The thesis proposal (using future tenses)
Should resemble
The general introduction of the final thesis (using past tenses)
Source(s) : Prepared by the authors based on the above analysis and the results of expert inquiry
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Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the sincere assistance provided by the team of experts from several Architectural Schools worldwide to verify and improve the TP Conception. Appreciation is also extended to the post graduate students of the College of Architecture and Planning, IAU, who have positively responded to the students' opinion survey.
Corresponding author
About the authors.
Mahmoud Abdellatif is a Professor of Urban and Regional Planning, College of Architecture and Planning, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia. He received an MSc from Assuit University, Egypt in 1977 and another MSc from Iowa State University in 1981 and a PhD degree from Texas A&M University in 1985. He has taught and practiced Architecture and Urban Planning for more than 45 years in Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. His main research focus is on research methods, strategic planning and design and development approaches. He is currently the adviser of IAU Vice President for Studies, Development and Community Services. His last book (published in Arabic) entitled The Simplifying-Integrating Approach to Contemporary Design, Planning and Urban Development articulates his own problem-solving approach. He is the principle editor of the Strategic Plan of Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University 2018–2025.
Reham Abdellatif is an Assistant Professor in Architecture, College of Design, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia. She obtained an MSc degree from Assiut University in 2003 and a PhD degree from Newcastle University, UK, in 2012. She has taught and practiced Architecture and Interior Design for more than 22 years in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Her main research focus is on Architectural Education and Curriculum Development, Analysing Design Learning Activities, Distant/Online Learning, Communication and Computation, VR and Information Technologies in Architecture. She ran the interior design curriculum development committee in Assiut University and in IAU.
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The PHD in Architecture addresses the development of modern architectural form and ideas as they have been affected by social, economic, and technological change. In broad terms, it encompasses the relations between the profession, practice, civil institutions, and the society at large.
As a doctoral program, it is oriented toward the training of scholars in the field of architectural history and theory. Its structure reflects a dual understanding of the scholar’s role in the discipline at large: as a teacher and as a researcher making an original contribution to the field, with an emphasis on expanding and reinterpreting disciplinary knowledge in a broad intellectual arena. Course requirements are therefore designed to give entering students a solid foundation in historical knowledge and theoretical discourse, with sufficient flexibility to spark and support individual research agendas. The program’s focus is on the history and theory of modern and contemporary architecture and urbanism in an international and cross-cultural context, from the mid-eighteenth century to the present. Within this, a wide range of research is supported through the varied expertise of the faculty and through strong relationships with other departments throughout the university and beyond.
The Ph.D. in Architecture is a program within the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP) while the actual degree is granted by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).
Admission for 2025
The application deadline for 2025 admissions is January 4, 2025.
For additional information on the application process and requirements, please see the GSAS website.
Lucia Allais Barry Bergdoll (Art History) Ateya Khorakiwala Reinhold Martin Mary McLeod Felicity Scott Mark Wigley Mabel Wilson
Affiliated Faculty
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All students entering the PhD program in Architecture receive two Residence Units of Advanced Standing, having entered with a master’s degree in architecture, architectural history, or a related field. As such, students must complete the M.Phil. degree within three years from initial registration and the Ph.D. within eight years from initial registration.
Year 1: Students begin required coursework, including language proficiencies Year 2: Students complete required coursework and language proficiencies; begin required teaching apprenticeship Year 3: Students complete required teaching apprenticeship; complete M.Phil. Examination (by mid-February); and defend the Dissertation Prospectus (by early May) Year 4+: Students research, write, and defend the doctoral dissertation
At least once each semester, students should meet individually with the director of the program or with their program or dissertation adviser. Students are assigned a program advisor in the first year, the duties of which are assumed by their dissertation advisor in the third year. Students must have acquired a dissertation advisor by the seventh week of their sixth semester. Students are allowed to change both their program and dissertation advisers during the course of their studies.
All students are expected to meet the requirements of Satisfactory Academic Progress as stipulated by the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences. Renewal of student funding packages each year is dependent upon their maintaining good academic and administrative standing .
Students are required to spend four semesters in residence during which time they are expected to take thirteen courses (39 credit points), of which at least eight must be taken for a letter grade. The remaining five courses can be taken for R credit. The required academic course work breaks down into the four sections described below. In addition to the doctoral colloquia and doctoral seminars, five further classes should be seminars (not lecture courses). At least six of the thirteen courses should be taken with faculty from the Ph.D. in Architecture committee. It is assumed that these thirteen courses will be spread out approximately evenly over the first four semesters of study, although students can complete a larger number of courses in the first year to accommodate teaching requirements in the second year.
For any course in which a student receives an incomplete, the student must complete all outstanding coursework before the beginning of the next academic year. To remain in good standing with the program, students cannot hold more than one incomplete at any time. Students must complete all incomplete coursework prior to taking their M.Phil. examination.
Section 1: Doctoral Colloquia All students are required to take two doctoral colloquia in the fall semester and at least two doctoral seminars in the spring semester over the four-semester sequence. Three of these must be taken for a letter grade.
Section 2: Architectural History/Theory To complete distribution requirements, students will be required to take graduate-level courses from the following areas of study:
One pre-1750 (Western or non-Western)
Two courses either in Eighteenth-Century Architecture and Theory or Nineteenth-Century Architecture and Theory
At least half of the syllabus must address these time frames for a course to satisfy the requirement. At the discretion of the program director, these requirements may be modified for students who have had previous, relevant graduate-level courses.
Section 3: Social and Critical Studies Students should take at least one course outside of Architecture and Art History. Representative departments in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences with an emphasis on comparative historical and critical studies include: African American and African Diaspora Studies, Anthropology, East Asian Languages and Cultures, English and Comparative Literature, Germanic Language and Literature, History, Latin American and Iberian Cultures, Middle Eastern, South Asian and African Studies, Philosophy, and Political Science, or within relevant University Centers and Institutes. The specific topic and the choice of faculty will be decided in consultation with the student’s program adviser or the director of the program.
Section 4: Electives Remaining coursework is completed through elective courses in students’ areas of interest, the selection of which should be decided in consultation with the student’s program adviser or the director of the program.
The four-semester program has been designed to give doctoral candidates sufficient training for the M.Phil. examination, with a special emphasis on the ability to teach classes in modern architectural and urban development and its relationship to parallel developments in material history and contemporary thought. Students must complete their M.Phil. (generals) examination no later than their sixth semester in the program.
The M.Phil. qualifying examination is divided into three interrelated sections:
Three revised coursework papers, chosen to reflect the student’s research interests and abilities
Two essays written in response to specific questions formulated by the examining committee, one essay pertaining to the major field and one to the minor field. Students will receive two questions pertaining to the major field but only answer one of them.
The oral examination
The qualifying exam will be divided into major and minor fields. These fields are to be determined in consultation with the program faculty supervising the exam. The major field should be fairly broad and involve cross-cultural comparisons and/or cover at least a century in time. The minor field should focus on another topic, historical or theoretical in character, distinct from the major field. Students must consult the relevant supervising faculty in deciding on their major and minor fields.
The examining committee will be comprised of three members, two covering the major field and one covering the minor field. At least two members of the examining committee should be drawn from the Ph.D. committee or from the program’s associated faculty. Each student prepares the two bibliographies in consultation with these faculty and distributes final versions of the bibliographies one month prior to the oral examination. Each member of the committee will be responsible for one question, which the student receives a week after submitting the bibliographies. The papers are to be completed in a two-week period and submitted at least one week prior to the oral examination. The oral exam consists of discussion of the submitted essays, the coursework papers, and the bibliographies.
To receive the degree of M.Phil. students must complete the required coursework, the M.Phil. exam, the required four semesters of teacher training, and must have demonstrated proficiency in two languages other than English.
After successfully completing the qualifying examination, each student defends his or her dissertation proposal before a faculty committee, composed of the student’s dissertation adviser, who must be on the list of approved Architecture Doctoral Dissertation Advisors , and two other readers, at least one of whom should be from the list of Architecture dissertation advisors or associated faculty. Defense of the dissertation prospectus must take place before the end of the sixth semester.
The student will then be free to pursue the research topic independently, in ongoing consultation with the dissertation adviser. It is expected that the dissertation be completed approximately two to three years after approval of the topic. Since all students come into the program with Advanced Standing, students must complete the dissertation within eight years of entering the program, approved Leaves of Absence notwithstanding.
The dissertation must be submitted four weeks before the dissertation defense. A copy is to be provided for each member of the examining committee. This committee consists of five people, at least three of whom are approved as a dissertation advisor in Architecture or the associated faculty. At least one member of the committee must be from outside GSAPP. The student is granted the Ph.D. upon defending the dissertation successfully and depositing the final copy in accordance with University regulations.
For more information on the Ph.D. dissertation, refer to the GSAS Dissertation Toolkit .
For information on Ph.D. student employee compensation and benefits, click here .
For information on available resources for parents, click here .
For more information on the GSAPP PhD Travel, Conference, and Exhibition Participation Support program, click here .
Fall 2024 Courses
Course
Semester
Title
Student Work
Instructor
Syllabus
Requirements & Sequence
Location & Time
Session & Points
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A8904‑1
Fall 2024
10592
A4469‑1
Fall 2024
10556
ARCHA6966‑1
Fall 2024
18002
ARCHA6967‑1
Fall 2024
18102
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The Bartlett School of Architecture
Architectural Design MPhil/PhD
The first programme of its kind in the UK, Architectural Design MPhil/PhD invites candidates to combine designing and writing to develop their architectural research.
This doctoral programme encourages the development of architectural research through the creative combination of designing and writing. The Architectural Design thesis consists of projects and texts that share a research theme and have a productive relationship. The projects may be drawn, written, filmed, constructed, or make use of whatever media is appropriate to the research subject. Integrating varied research methods, the thesis emphasises the creative interdependence of drawing, writing, and building in the development of innovative practices and theories of architecture.
The first architectural design programme in the UK, this programme was established in 1995, with the first candidate graduated in 2000. Since then, there have been over 80 further graduates. Candidates can study full-time or part-time, depending upon individual circumstances.
View the UCL Prospectus page for this programme
Developed through individual research investigations and supported by regular tutorials with a principal and a secondary supervisor, an Architectural Design thesis integrates design projects and a text of around 60,000 words. Stimulated by the 500-year history of the architectural book and the many forms it has taken globally, over 30 graduates have had their thesis published as an authored book.
In their first year, candidates are registered as MPhil students, but are then expected at the end of that year (or second year if part-time) to upgrade to PhD status. A full-time candidate is expected to complete the PhD in three to four years, whilst a part-time candidate completes theirs in five to seven years.
Within The Bartlett School of Architecture, the Architectural Design MPhil/PhD programme has a longstanding, fruitful association with the Architectural and Urban History and Theory MPhil/PhD programme. Every year the programme collectively organise a series of regular seminars and events:
Research Introductions
Initial presentations by new MPhil students.
Research Conversations
In-depth seminars to meet the criteria for upgrade from MPhil to PhD status.
Research Projects
An annual PhD conference and exhibition with international critics as respondents, so that students can present and discuss work-in-progress. Read the PhD Research Projects publications on Issuu
Candidates also have the option of auditing taught modules from the Architectural History MA , led by Professor Peg Rawes, or the Landscape Architecture MA/MLA , led by Professor Laura Allen and Professor Mark Smout.
Supervisors
The programme draws upon the wide range of research expertise offered at The Bartlett School of Architecture. Supervisors are selected depending on the student’s specific research area. The principal doctoral supervisor is within The Bartlett School of Architecture, while the subsidiary supervisor can be from The Bartlett or another UCL department, including anthropology, medicine, or fine art, for example. The intention is for doctoral subjects and supervisions to be as broad as the discipline of architecture and to connect research to related disciplines to foster productive and rewarding collaborations. The school also has a fruitful association with the doctoral programme at the Royal Academy of Music.
To discuss a potential Architectural Design MPhil/PhD, it is recommended that you read the profile of the principal supervisor with whom you would like to work and email them a research proposal. Alternatively, you may contact the Programme Director.
Current supervisors
Dr Paul Bavister Sound, architecture, technology and the body. Auditoria and performance spaces, fixed, temporary and virtual. Architectural acoustics, sonic propagation and perception, biometric sensing and evolutionary processes. Interaction and performance.
Professor Peter Bishop Application of urban design and urban planning theory; incremental urbanism; temporary uses and installations; role of conservation in distorting urban change; role of other stakeholders and political forces outside the design process in the construction of the built environment. Professor Iain Borden History of modern architecture; urbanism and urban culture; skateboarding, graffiti and urban arts; public space; experiences of architecture; film, photography and other urban representations; critical theory and cultural studies.
Roberto Bottazzi The aesthetic, spatial and philosophical impact of digital technologies on architecture and urbanism.
Professor Eva Branscome Architecture as evidence of contested histories; Historic urban environments and their tangible and intangible heritage; Modern architecture in Europe; Migration of ideas and people and how this is readable within the urban fabric; Cities as complex cultural constructions; Gender as it affects the subdivision and use of built spaces; Domesticity; Museums, exhibition design and curatorial practice; Avant-garde art and renegade urban art forms such as street art; Performance spaces; Photography as a medium between architecture and culture.
Professor Barbara Campbell-Lange Projects that imaginatively unfold notions of event, object and unbuilt environment; that think otherly about discipline and category, politics, technologies and philosophies; that evolve verbal with non-verbal methodologies; that explore ancient and contemporary (minimalist) composition in the arts and humanities. Professor Ben Campkin Histories, theories and practices of urbanism and urbanisation. Transdisciplinary urbanism and experimental methods of urban research, publication and public engagement. Urban night spaces, cultures and governance. London’s history and built environment; contemporary urban policy and practice in London. Queer space, architecture and architectural histories; heritage associated with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer populations.
Professor Mario Carpo History of architectural theory and history of cultural technologies, with focus on the early modern period (the Vitruvian tradition and the Italian Renaissance, from Alberti to Vignola) and on contemporary digital design theory (1990 to the present).
Dr Megha Chand Inglis History and theory of architectural practices in and from the Indian subcontinent, and more broadly the Global South; the play of relations between 'the west' and the 'non-west;' the colonial encounter; Indian temple building communities; the 'non-modern' in global architectural modernity; epistemological vantages in design and production; the politics of technology; subaltern building communities; knowledge production; relations between texts and contemporary architecture; diasporic cultures of building and place making; migrant labour in the global diaspora; postcolonial theory and approaches. Professor Nat Chard Architecture and indeterminacy; relationship between ideas and technique in architectural representation and manufacture; experimental practices in architecture; developing methods of drawing and making as a means of architectural research. Professor Marjan Colletti Digital design and digital theory; experimental building and urban design; innovative CAD/CAM fabrication technologies; neo-baroque and exuberant synthetic and syncretic design techniques.
Professor Marcos Cruz Innovative environments, utilization of bacteria and algae, computation, bio-technology and synthetic biology.
Dr Edward Denison Histories and theories of modernism and modernity outside ’The West'. Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia, especially China and Chinese encounters with modernity domestically and/or globally. Colonialism, post-colonialism, and globalisation. Cultural heritage and critical approaches to urban heritage. Community engagement/campaigning and neighbourhood planning. Professor Murray Fraser Architectural design; design research; architectural history and theory; cultural studies; architecture and globalisation; cross-cultural influences; cultural identity; urbanism. Professor Stephen Gage Time-based architecture; architecture that interacts with people and the external environment; architecture and performance.
Dr Sam Griffiths Theories and methods for researching and writing the historical relationship between urban populations and their built environments; the spatial cultures of industrial cities, suburbs and high streets; urban manufacturing; architecture as chronotope in realist fiction and historical writing; space syntax as an interdisciplinary approach to research in the humanities and social sciences.
Dr Kostas Grigoriadis Multi-material / functionally graded material design and fabrication; advanced computational design and computational fluid dynamics simulations in architecture; generative design (topology optimisation); embodied energy of multi-material building parts; digital theory; epistemology of computer simulations in architectural design (EOCS); cognitive theory (Material Engagement Theory and conceptual blending).
Peter Guillery London's buildings and topography of the 16th to 21st centuries, especially housing, industrial buildings and vernacular architecture.
Dr Sean Hanna Spatial cognition; mathematical and computational modelling of spatial and social relationships; individual and collective creativity; machine learning and intelligence; complexity and big data. Dr Penelope Haralambidou Practice-led research; spatial culture; cinematic architecture; architectural essay film; digital animation and craft; immersive technologies; fine art; music; allegory, narrative and storytelling; histories and theories of perception, memory, imagination and spatial representation; optics, linear perspective, stereoscopy and the politics of visuality; architecture and play; feminist utopias; female spatial imagination; medieval illuminated manuscripts; Christine de Pizan; Marcel Duchamp.
Dr Jan Kattein Participatory design practice; engaged urbanism; community engagement; self building; design activism; architectural practice incl. Alternative forms of practice; design education; public sector and community governance; radical sustainability; high street and town centre regeneration.
Dr Chris Leung Prototyping through digital modelling, simulation, fabrication and instrumented testing as a modus operandi for design research; timber construction and sustainable approaches to the design of timber buildings; passive low-energy actuator technologies (phase-transitioning waxes, thermo-bimetals, shape memory alloys) for environmental control in buildings; digital and hybrid digital-analogue control systems for facade systems; solar energy; passive cooling with optically selective radiators; embodied mechanical logic; advanced manufacturing processes e.g. design for multi-material polymer printing. Professor Yeoryia Manolopoulou Architectural design and theory; design research methods; architecture and experience; collaborative, aleatoric and performative design; dialogic architecture; place, material practices and building; pedagogic settings; theories of embodied mind, action and environment; the architectural score; practices of drawing; architecture’s intersection with art, anthropology and neuroscience.
Dr Clare Melhuish Anthropology of architecture, the built environment and urban processes; ethnography of architectural practice; urban and architectural visual and material culture; postcolonial urbanism; critical urban heritage; modern(ist) architecture and planning in London; French modern(ist) architecture and planning; Arab cities; Caribbean urbanism; universities and urban regeneration; education spaces and the city; participatory and community-led planning; anthropology of home and domestic space; ethnographic methodologies.
Dr Shaun Murray Architectural research through design. Agency of architectural drawing in process and result, ecological thinking, and field theory relations. Histories, theories, and futures of communicating architecture through the inter-relations of designing ecologies. Ecology, landscape, geology, and material dynamics in relation to site through mappings and choreographies. Surrealism and Correalism in architecture. Adapting buildings to occupants through reflexive design in architecture and technology. Hybrid methods of communicating architecture, transdisciplinary approaches, non-linear and non-reductionist modes.
Dr James O’Leary Ungovernable and contested spaces; spaces of conflict and post-conflict transformation; spatial justice; urban memory and commemoration; situated practices and site-specific art; interventions in public space; immersive narrative environments; border environments and frontier landscapes; spaces of migration; post-colonial conditions and cartographies.
Dr Luke Pearson Architecture and videogames; the design of virtual worlds; worldbuilding practices; digital pop culture; game design and game aesthetics; game engine technologies; digital animation; speculative and utopian architectural design; immersive technologies; new media art; imaginative drawing; comics, science fiction and anime.
Professor Alan Penn Urban research at the scale between the building and the city; design of complex buildings and their relations to organisations (i.e. hospitals, laboratories and offices); development of computing for architecture; urban pollution dispersal; virtual reality applications for the built environment; simulation of social phenomena and urban growth and change. Professor Barbara Penner Tourism; American hotels, resorts, and commercial architecture; gender and space; domesticity; consumerism; bathrooms and infrastructure; inclusive urbanism; appropriate technology. Professor Sophia Psarra Architecture narrative and fiction, geometry of architecture and urban space; conceptual order, spatial morphology and spatial experience; the formation of spatial meaning in architecture and symbolic languages across different media; architectural theory; the morphology of cities in relation to processes of industrialisation, de-industrialisation and innovation; spatial design of complex buildings and its relation to society and organisations; computer modelling and visualisation. Professor Peg Rawes Climatic, planetary and ecological practices; environmental aesthetics, poetics theory and practices; feminist, intersectional and decolonial theory and practices; histories and theories of vulnerability, wellbeing and care; political and ecological critiques of computation.
Professor Jane Rendell Gender/feminist theory and architecture; art, architecture and urban interventions; critical spatial theory and practice; creative/critical subjectivity and positionality in writing or site-writing; psychoanalysis and space; public space, cultural identity and narrative.
Harriet Richardson Architectural history and heritage; medical buildings; development of hospital planning and design; post-war hospital architecture in Scotland; National Health Service; urban history; Scottish Architecture
Dr David Roberts Mobilising histories and futures of social housing in London; developing action research with community groups under threat from urban policy; empowering ethical built environment pedagogy and practice; devising socially engaged site-specific performance; nurturing forms of collaboration and collectivity; extending architectural history and design education to young people.
Dr Tania Sengupta Postcolonial and transcultural studies; colonial, post-colonial/contemporary architecture and urban history (non-western worlds, especially South Asia); postcolonial identities in western contexts. For non-western contexts: architectures of governance; provincial identity and rural-urban relationships; spatial cultures of domesticity; material and spatial cultures; global, local and scalar relationships in architecture/ urbanism; everyday spaces and practices.
Professor Bob Sheil Architecture and design through production, experimental design, prototyping, making, fabrication, craft, innovative technology, digital practice, digital manufacturing, assembly, materials, modelling, transgression from drawing to making, 3D scanning.
Professor Mark Smout Design-based approach to architecture, landscape (urban and rural) and climate change via political, technological and artistic disciplines.
Dr Nina Vollenbröker Programme Director Aural diversity and deafness. Disability and bodily difference. Institutional spaces including hospitals and specialist schools. Early modernist Austrian and German architecture. Spaces of home, especially in the context of migration and long-term mobility. Intersections of material culture, photography, and space. Quilts and textiles. Manuscript diaries and oral histories.
Professor Tim Waterman Landscape studies, landscape architecture, landscape history; imaginaries—moral, social, ecological, radical, and utopian; democracy, citizenship, justice, and the right to landscape; taste, manners, customs, and commons; food and foodways; utopian studies; urban and rural studies; sustainability and regenerative design.
Dr Robin Wilson The architectural media (especially the architectural journals of the 20th century); architectural photography; architectural criticism; arts-based and performative methods of spatial research; curatorship and architecture; utopian theory.
Oliver Wilton Architectural design, environmental design, and sustainability. Architecture, construction, industrial and environmental histories. Physical prototyping, digital simulation, and architecture performance. Developing simple new forms of construction. Architecture lifecycle, industrial symbiosis, inhabitation and related resource systems, circular metabolism. Biogenic materials, seasonality, and microclimate augmentation.
Stamatis Zografos Critical heritage studies; urban memory and archives; cultural studies; intersections of architecture/conservation and psychoanalysis; fire, urbanism and precarity; urban violence; destruction and evolution/regeneration.
Research Proposal
The research proposal is crucial to our decision on your application since it demonstrates your ability to identify and articulate an independent line of research inquiry. In not more than 2000 words, you should explain the subject of your proposed research, the questions you hope to answer, why you think this knowledge will be of value, your intended method, and the sources you will use. As an original contribution to knowledge, a PhD thesis must identify and discuss an identifiable field of research, critique its principal works and texts, and indicate how the thesis is an original departure from and/or development of this research field. Additionally, research by Architectural Design thesis has two inter-related elements of equal importance—a project and a text—that share a theme and a productive relationship, which must all be discussed in your research proposal. You should show that you have the ability and experience to carry out the research, and are familiar with the context, literature, and appropriate methods of research. Please offer a working title for your research and a select bibliography of key works. It may be helpful to structure your proposal under the following headings:
Working Title
Research Project - broken down under the following headings: Subject/Aims/Key Research Questions/Academic Context/Methods (1500 words)
Feasibility/Ability to complete - preparation to conduct research and previous experience (500 words)
Select bibliography of key works (primary and secondary)
In addition, we request a C.V., a portfolio of design or other practice–led work or a link to your website (if applicable).
Application Guidance
The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, currently has no deadline for submission of applications for admission to the PhD programmes. Postgraduate research students can commence their study at certain dates during the academic year, so are not restricted to a September start date unlike postgraduate taught students. However, please note we will not be processing any applications in August and September for entry within the same academic year. During university breaks of Summer, Christmas, Easter, and in reading weeks in November (06–10 November 2023) and February (12–16 February 2024), slower responses can be expected. Please be reminded that the formal admissions process can be a lengthy one, between 2-3 months. If you are considering applying for a scholarship, we ask you to familiarise yourself with all relevant guidance and allow sufficient time (6-8 months at least) ahead of deadlines. In many cases, our scholarship schemes require applicants to have submitted their UCL admission application prior to applying. Please submit admission applications at least two months in advance of scholarship deadlines. We will, for example, not process admission applications in November or December for applications that depend on scholarship deadlines in January; these admission applications must be submitted by the end of October. Additionally, some scholarships may require a reference from your potential UCL supervisor. It is important to note that to request a reference, you must have had prior ongoing and positive conversations with a supervisor for them to be able to recommend you in good faith. Requests for references from potential supervisors should be made at the same time as formal applications for admission to the PhD programme and last-minute requests will not be considered. Please note that while scholarship applications require a reference letter from your potential supervisor, PhD applications require two independent references.
The Architectural Design doctorate is a means to learn from the past, reassess the present, and speculate on future models of architectural practice and discourse.
Doctoral graduates have gone on to pursue careers in a wide variety of fields, from architectural, design and art practice to curatorial positions. Students have also progressed into academic roles at both The Bartlett and other higher education establishments, including:
Architectural Association School of Architecture
African Futures Institute
University of Cyprus
Dalhousie University
University of Innsbruck
Rice University
Royal College of Art
Royal Danish Academy of Architecture, Design, Conservation
University of Oxford
University of Sheffield
Programme Director and Departmental Tutor: Dr Nina Vollenbröker Programme Coordinators: Stelios Giamarelos and Stamatis Zografos Programme Administrator: Emmy Thittanond
Daniel James Wilkinson, The Sculptor-Architect: drawings, models and bozzetti after Michelangelo, PhD, 2021.
Natalia Romik, (Post)-Jewish Architecture of Memory within former Eastern European Shtetls, PhD, 2018: public programme in the evening in Józefów Biłgorajski.
Nerea Amorós Elorduy, East African Refugee Camps as Learning Assemblages: The built environment as an educational resource for encamped young children in the East African Rift, PhD, 2018: mural-making process on the first and second walls of Kiziba refugee camp maternelle.
Richard Beckett, Architecture as a Landscape for Beneficial Microbial Interactions: Probiotic Ceramic Wall Components_1.
Thomas Pearce, An Architecture of Parallax. Design Research Between Speculative Historiography and Experimental Fabrication.
Natalia Romik, (Post)-Jewish Architecture of Memory within former Eastern European Shtetls, PhD, 2018: the walk with JAD, image from the collection of the Contemporary Art Centre Kronika in Bytom.
Natalia Romik, (Post)-Jewish Architecture of Memory within former Eastern European Shtetls, PhD, 2018: the Nomadic Shtetl Archive in the market square in Kock.
Richard Beckett, Architecture as a Landscape for Beneficial Microbial Interactions: Indoor Microbiome Sampling.
Richard Beckett, Architecture as a Landscape for Beneficial Microbial Interactions: Probiotic Ceramic Wall Components_2.
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John G. Ellis: Urban Design Seminar: Teaching Urban Design: A Hands-on Experience
Old Oak Common, London: ‘Fundamental Questions’
Old Oak Masterplan:Question & Answer Session for shortlisted tenderers
Old Oak and Park Royal: Guided Tour Briefing Pack
PARK ROYAL ATLAS: An Employment Study of London’s Largest Industrial Area
Spectres of Time in Space: Tracing Phantom Temporalities with Architectural Methodologies
Scroope Journal overview
Current Issue
UNFOLD: Decolonising Architecture at Cambridge website
Current PhD Research in the Department overview
Sam Aitkenhead: The unintended consequences of designing out friction from the home of the future
Karam Alkatlabe: How can Digital Participatory Planning and Collaborative Urban Design reshape the urban recovery process in post-disaster cities? The case of Damascus
Fatma Beyza Celebi: Cosmopolitan Nostalgia: Examining local memory in contemporary Istanbul focusing on spatial and visual representations of the city’s cosmopolitanism in the 1920s and 1930s
Mohamed Derbal: Space, time and community: German architectural discourse and the search for national unity, 1890-1914
Joshua Dimasaka: Global Disaster Risk Audit using Artificial Intelligence and Earth Observation Data
Hamideh Farahmandian: An Investigation into the Cinematic Representations of Spatial Poverty Trap in Tehran (1963–2022)
Nicholas Frayne: Spaces of Violence and Healing: the material agency of architecture in peacebuilding in Kenya
Vendela Gambill: Land use planning and applied urban modelling: natural limits to growth in London
I-Dec Goh: Bias mitigated data-driven façade design of social housing in Singapore using thermal and imaging information
Elizabeth Baldwin Gray: Conceptions of the Gothic: Romantic Medievalism in Early Modern German Architecture
Charlie Hamilton (FCILT): Mass Transit in Small to Medium Sized Cities
Juliet Harrison-Egan: Spaces of Education: the role of schools in the post-apartheid city
Yu Hu: The Evolution of Urban Office Space in The Age of Information and Communication Technology
Sean Hughes: The 21st Century Suburb: A Method for Transit Driven Redevelopment in North American Suburbia
Tom Joashi: Rethinking Urban Conflict Through the French Wars of Religion (1550-1572)
Yasser M. Khaldi: Governing Renewable Energy Transition in Conflict Contexts: The Case of Palestine
Mohamed Hesham Khalil: Architecting hippocampal plasticity through spatial complexity
Bing-Tao Lee: Biophilic Design and Mental Wellbeing: The Relationship Between Indoor Plants, Positive Emotions and Behaviour
Yufei Li: Atlas in Motion: Visualising Manchuria through Moving Images
Mariana Llano Valencia: Challenging the influence of coloniality, whiteness and patriarchy in urban planning in Cartagena, Colombia
Yusi Luo: Housing Choices of Young graduates in the UK
Fatma Mhmood: Social Narratives and Women’s Spatial Experiences of Parks and Desert Landscapes in the UAE
Heather Mitcheltree: Geographies of gendered and domestic violence in Australia
Ekaterina Mizrokhi: Life in Anachronistic Space: Awaiting Demolition in Moscow's Soviet-era Standardised Housing
Ummiye Seyda Mutlu: Urban Rooms: Places of Mediation, Participation, and Urban Change
Jiayu Pan: Redesigning interior spaces to accommodate social distancing for the rare events
Lingzi Pan: The role of social connectedness in quality-of-life measurement and urban modelling
Zhikai Peng: Exploring Urban Spatial Behaviour Under Thermal Stress: How variations in sun and wind conditions due to urban form affect public space use?
Georgia Politi: The life and work of Sir Horace Jones, PRIBA (1819-1887)
Natcha Ruamsanitwong: Modernising Britain: Sir Leslie Martin (1908-2000) and his role in shaping the Architectural Education in Britain
Filomena Russo: Restorative characteristics of intermediate architectural environments
Michael Salka: On the Origin of Buildings: Social-Ecological Networks Provisioning the Built Environment
Aisha Sobey: Urban futures: The implications of smart cities and digital living for wellbeing
Lei Song: Fountains, Baths, and Urban Water Supply in England, 1400 - 1800
Maoran Sun: Scenario-based strategies for decarbonizing Hard-to-Decarbonize housing
Cleo Valentine: Architectural Neuroimmunology: Assessing the Impact of Architectural Form on Human Neuroinflammation
Jeroen van Ameijde: Quality of life in high-density urban environments: Data-driven analysis of Hong Kong’s public housing environments and social interaction
Eimar Watson: The British Marble Industry 1748-1905
Jonathan Weston: Beyond the Pretty Picture: Exploring the Aesthetic and Function of the Architectural Visualisation
Eduardo Wiegand: The Life Cycle Design of Multi-storey Wood Buildings: opportunities for efficiency across the construction value chain
Ruaa Jawdat Yagkhmour: Between Domination and Liberation: Exploring Paradoxes in Urban Planning Practices in the West Bank, Palestine
Yue Ying: Understanding variability in neighbourhood responses to regeneration initiatives
Di Zhao: European Railway Buildings in China 1890-1940: an example of cross-cultural exchange
Lingzheng Zhu: Mediating Nature: The Practice of Synthetic Media in the Contemporary Eastern Context
Shanshan Xie: An investigation of heterogeneous commute mode choices to link travel demands to flexible working policies: using an Early Stopping Bayesian Data Assimilation
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Professional Studies Advisors (PSA) overview
Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice in Architecture - ARB/ RIBA Part 3
MSt Architecture Apprenticeship
MPhil in Architecture & Urban Studies (MAUS)
MSt Building History
Course requirements:
Candidates accepted for this course will have a 1st class or a high 2i honours degree and, a Masters degree with 70% overall (or equivalent) in Architecture or a related discipline.
The University requires all applicants to demonstrate competence in the English language at a very high level before they begin their proposed course of study - adherence to this requirement is strict. You must be able to demonstrate that you are able to communicate in English at a level and in an idiom suitable to the subject. You will, therefore, need to provide evidence that you meet the University’s minimum requirements for competence in English. For further information see Postgraduate Admissions Office .
How to Make an Application for the PhD in Architecture
If you do meet the course requirements, you are recommended to consult the list of our established University Teaching Officers (UTOs) and their research interests (see below for links to information about each of our UTOs). If one of our UTOs has relevant research interests to your own, please email them directly with a short research proposal of about 300 words, an example of your writing and a CV to determine whether they are potentially available to work with you as a supervisor before you make a formal application. See:
Dr Ronita Bardhan - Data-driven built-environment design, spatial analysis and climate change, Big data for sustainability in the built-environment, design for demand side energy management
Professor James Campbell - History of building construction, history of library design
Dr Ramit Debnath - Cutting-edge interdisciplinary domain of environmental data science, computational social science, and human-in-the-loop AI design to enable climate action. Applicants should be able to demonstrate excellent data science and quantitative research skills and a passion for interdisciplinary engagement
Dr Michal Gath-Morad - Exploring how architectural design impacts spatial cognition, behaviour, and social dynamics in diverse environments, from healthcare and workplaces to complex urban settings. Proposals can encompass empirical studies, the development of digital simulation tools for human-centred design, or action research investigating the influence of evidence-based design tools on design cognition
Dr Felipe Hernández - Architectural and urban design, participatory design, social urbanism, history and theory
Professor Ying Jin – City planning, urban design, and urban modelling
Dr Irit Katz - Socio-politics of architecture and urbanism; transitional spaces, camps and borderscapes; spaces of displacement, migration, and climate mobilities; ethnic and cultural diversity, exclusion and inequality; conflict and violence; housing insecurities; radical spatial and urban transformations; participatory architecture and urban design
Dr Antiopi Koronaki - Computational design, architectural engineering and geometry, and design optimization principles. Potential topics may include, but are not limited to automation and design for disassembly, modular buildings and circularity in the construction sector, engineered timber construction, as well as advanced fabrication and robotics in architecture
Dr Michael Ramage – Designing and building structural masonry spans using traditional techniques and new materials
Professor Flora Samuel - Affordable housing, participatory planning, community consultation, social value and mapping data with communities
Dr Darshil U. Shah - Design and manufacture with biocomposites and low-carbon materials, Structure- property-processing relations in natural materials and structures, Biomechanics and biomimetics, History of natural materials & materials processing, and Design education and pedagogy
Dr Nicholas Simcik Arese - Social theory and urban planning, international development, property rights, youth, masculinity, migration, Middle East, Mediterranean, Mexico, legal geography, science and technology studies, anthropology of value, ethnography
Professor Emily So - Casualty estimation in earthquake loss modelling, risk in the built environment.
Professor Koen Steemers – architectural and urban implications of environmental issues ranging from energy use to human comfort
Dr Max Sternberg – architecture & philosophy, socio-politics of architecture, urban conflict, architectural history
Dr Minna Sunikka-Blank - sustainable building policies, thermal retrofit, energy use behaviour, aesthetics of sustainable architecture
Dr Matteo Zallio - Interdisciplinary research on Inclusive Design for the built environment, product, and service design
You are recommended to only make a formal application via the University’s Graduate Admissions Office, once an established UTO has confirmed that they would be interested to consider a formal application. Please note that an offer of admission to the University is subject to final approval by the University's Graduate Admissions Office. Do not assume that you will be made an offer on the grounds that your prospective supervisor has suggested you make a formal application – this just represents the first stage of admission administration.
All applications must be made via the Applicant Portal available on the Postgraduate Admissions Office website. It is important that you read through the information available on the Graduate Admissions Office website before submitting your application. If you are already a current graduate student at Cambridge you will be referred to as a ‘Continuer’ on the Graduate Admissions Office website.
You will need to arrange for the following documents to be submitted with your application:
Academic Reference(s)
A Personal Reference will be required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Evidence of Competence in English if English is not your first language
Sample of Work - this could be a journal publication or a chapter from your undergraduate dissertation
Research Proposal of 1000 - 1500 words should consist of a topic and a hypothesis, a literature review, a statement on method, and key references
Application Deadlines
The PhD in Architecture commences in October each year and applications for the course can be made from the preceding September. All applications must be made via the Applicant Portal available on the Postgraduate Admissions Office website. It is important that you read through the information available on the Graduate Admissions Office website before submitting your application.
The final deadline for applicants seeking funding is 7 January 2020. Even if you are not seeking funding, we strongly recommend that you submit your application by 7 January, as no applications will be accepted once this competitive and popular programme is full.
If places are still available on programmes beyond this deadline; self-funded applicants will continue to be considered until the final deadline of 15 May 2020. No applications will be considered after this deadline.
Course Fees
Information relating to the fee for this course is available from the Postgraduate Admissions Office .
If you are seeking funding for your course via one of the University’s main funding competitions, there are specific deadlines and eligibility criteria for each competition. Please check the Funding Section of the Postgraduate Admissions Office website for information and application deadlines.
Applicants classed as 'Home' or 'EU' for fees purposes and wish to research an AHRC approved research subject are eligible to be considered for an Open-Oxford-Cambridge AHRC DTP studentship. Applicants wishing to be considered for these awards need to check the appropriate box on the application form. Applicants will also need to ensure that they make their application by the funding competition deadline for Home/EU students. Please see the University's AHRC DTP funding website for more information: https://www.csah.cam.ac.uk/Education/ahrcdtp together with the Open-Oxford-Cambridge AHRC DTP website: https://www.oocdtp.ac.uk/
The Department sometimes offers EPSRC awards for students classified as 'Home' or 'EU' for fees purposes. These awards are advertised on the Department’s website and other media during the Easter Term (Summer Term) if available. Applicants who have already applied for the PhD degree will automatically be considered for these awards if they meet the criteria for them.
After your Application is Submitted
When the application reaches the Department, it will be considered by the Department’s Graduate Admissions Team. Applicants may be invited for an interview in Cambridge, or, via Skype if it is not possible to travel to Cambridge. The Faculty’s Degree Committee will then consider the application and make a recommendation to the Graduate Admissions Office as to whether an offer of a place on the course should be made, and if so, with what academic conditions.
Please be aware that this process may take several months. You can check the status of your application at any time via your Applicant Portal.
Full information about making your application, Colleges, fees and funding opportunities is provided on the Postgraduate Admissions Office website pages.
For further information on graduate admission to the Department of Architecture contact: [email protected]
At a Glance
Course length and dates:
3 years full-time/5 years part-time, October start.
Examination:
A dissertation of not more than 80,000 words.
Academic requirement:
A 1st class or a high 2i honours degree in Architecture or a related discipline, and a Masters degree with merit (if a merit category exists).
English language requirement:
See Postgraduate Admissions Office .
Applications accepted from:
The preceding September.
Application Deadlines:
The final deadline for applicants seeking funding is early January, please see Postgraduate Admissions for exact date. Even if you are not seeking funding, we strongly recommend that you submit your application by 7 January, as no applications will be accepted once this competitive and popular programme is full.
Course Fees:
Information relating to the fee for this course is available from the Postgraduate Admissions Office .
If you are seeking funding for your course via one of the University’s main funding competitions, there are specific deadlines and eligibility criteria for each competition. Please check the Funding Section of the Postgraduate Admissions Office website for information and application deadlines.
Postal Address: Department of Architecture 1-5 Scroope Terrace Cambridge CB2 1PX Tel: 01223 332950
Doctor of Philosophy - Architecture, Building and Planning
Course code: DR-PHILABP
How to apply
The Melbourne School of Design aims to admit outstanding and diverse graduates and to provide them with a world class experience in undertaking a graduate research degree.
Applications are accepted throughout the year. Offers are normally made for candidature and scholarship in November and December for commencement the following year.
1. Decide on a research program
The Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning offers two research programs:
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
We recommend that you familiarise yourself with both of these programs before deciding on the program most suitable to you.
2. Check your eligibility
Please ensure that you meet all the PhD entry requirements before applying. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.
3. Check the application and scholarship deadlines
The Faculty makes graduate research candidature and scholarship offers together. To be considered applications must be submitted and complete, including meeting the University of Melbourne English Language Entry Requirements , by the following deadlines :
Applications from
Closing date
Applicants notified
International applicants
30 September
10 December
Domestic applicants
31 October
20 December
Second round*
31 March
31 May
*Only run where scholarships remain to be awarded, all eligible applications (International and Domestic applications) will be considered.
While graduate research applications can be submitted at any time, applications received outside of the closing dates may be held for the next admission and scholarship round.
A separate application is not required for Graduate research scholarships . For other Faculty scholarships , an Expression of Interest may be required. If you wish to apply for other University scholarships, such as the Fay Marles or Human Rights Scholarships, you will need to add these to your application. You can search for scholarships here: https://scholarships.unimelb.edu.au/. Please contact [email protected] if you hold a scholarship external to the Faculty.
4. Prepare documentation
You will be asked to submit the following documents with your online application:
Nominating a supervisor You will be asked to nominate a supervisor, and you will be invited to upload evidence of engagement with an intended principal supervisor. This can be in email format.
Your nominated supervisor must be a current staff member in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning. We recommend that you search for a supervisor on the University’s Find an Expert page or the Faculty’s Academic Staff page. Please attach your research proposal, academic transcripts (with grading scales) and CV when contacting your potential supervisor. Please note that all supervision arrangements are also subject to the approval of the faculty's admissions committee. Support of a prospective supervisor does not guarantee entry to the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning’s research higher degree program.
Academic results and proof of graduation Include scanned copies of official transcripts from every higher education institution you have attended, together with a grading scale used by the University (faculty/department) where you completed your 4-year bachelor (Hons) degree and/or masters degree. The transcripts should include the numeric grades received. Any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a translation. If there is no proof of graduation on your transcript you must include a copy of the graduation certificate with your application.
Ungraded masters thesis If you have completed, or are completing a masters thesis, which did not/will not receive a numeric mark on your transcript, or your thesis component will not appear on your transcript, you must include this detail in your online application or attach a separate statement to your application which explains this. You must attach a copy of your thesis and examiners reports (if available).
We recommend that you nominate an academic referee who can comment directly on this ungraded thesis. They should provide as much information as possible about your thesis by completing all relevant sections of the academic referee report and may also choose to attach a separate letter. Evidence of research experience Applicants are required to have conducted a research project equivalent to 25% of a year’s full-time study at fourth year honours or master level. Applicant’s transcripts must clearly show when the 25% research project was completed. If this is not clear from the transcript a letter from the University/supervisor should be attached as evidence.
Curriculum Vitae A current CV outlining work experience relevant to your proposed field of research, prior research background and details of any research publications. Sample format for the required CV .
Research proposal Applicants for graduate research programs must include a research proposal. The proposal should be two to three pages (1,500-2,000 words, not including references, tables and figures) in length and address the following:
The research question expressed briefly and in simple English (it can include technical terms)
An explanation of the problem(s) to be explored (including aims and background),
Articulation of the research objectives or hypotheses to be tested
The significance of the research (including placing the proposed research within existing academic literature)
Brief outline of the proposed research method
A suggested work plan, including stages of research and timeline
Personal experience in the proposed area of study and the reasons for wishing to undertake such study
If you are proposing a thesis with a creative work output, please include details of this in your proposal.
Two Academic Referee Report Forms You must provide contact details for your academic referees in the online application form. If it is more than 5 years since you completed your last degree, professional referees may be provided. On submission of your application, your referees will be emailed a link to access the online referee form and they must provide their references using this online form. You will be notified when they submit the reference. Your application may be deemed as incomplete if the referee reports are not submitted before the application closing dates.
Supplementary information If applicable, applicants may also submit supporting evidence of research publications, refereed journals and/or creative works (digital portfolios, design projects) where relevant to your application.
5. Submit an application
For admission to Graduate Research Degree Candidature and Scholarship, you must submit a course application online . Quote course code DR-PHILABP in your application. Please also note the following:
International applicants select ‘PG Overseas Fee Paying’
Domestic applicants select ‘RTP / RTS / CTS’
Attendance mode: select 'On Campus'
Study mode: select 'Standard'.
To avoid delay in the assessment of your application, ensure you follow the online application instructions carefully and upload all the required documents. Once a complete application is received, the assessment process can take 8 – 12 weeks. Applications received outside the closing dates may receive an outcome or advice their application is on hold, these applications will receive an outcome within 8 weeks of the closing date as outlined in Section 3.
More information
Enrolment If you are successful in obtaining an offer for a place, the Faculty expects you to complete your enrolment and commence your course in February or March for those commencing in semester one or August or September for those commencing in semester 2. All commencing graduate researchers will be inducted on the day they enrol and invited to an orientation session with peers.
Residency requirement Graduate researchers must meet the residency requirement. For more information on residency requirements please see the Melbourne Policy Library Selection and Admission Policy (MPF1295), section 4.14
Transferring applicants Transferring students apply through the same application process as new applicants. Please contact the Research Support Office to discuss your situation.
All Enquiries
Submit an enquiry form .
Contact-support How can we help?
Research Proposal Example/Sample
Full Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template
In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.
Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
Proposal template (Fully editable)
If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:
Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal
Research Proposal Example: Frequently Asked Questions
Are the sample proposals real.
Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.
Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?
As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.
You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .
How do I get the research proposal template?
You can access our free proposal template here .
Is the proposal template really free?
Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.
Where can I learn more about proposal writing?
For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.
For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.
Ace Your Research Proposal
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Writing A Research Proposal: 4 Hacks To Fast-Track The Process
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📄 FREE TEMPLATES
Research Topic Ideation
Proposal Writing
Literature Review
Methodology & Analysis
Academic Writing
Referencing & Citing
Apps, Tools & Tricks
The Grad Coach Podcast
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PhD (Architecture & Design)
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Research Training Scheme
See admissions
AU$42,240 (2025 annual)
The School of Architecture and Urban Design is widely recognised for innovative leadership and contribution to excellence in design research.
At RMIT we contend that research is conducted through designing and that the process of designing, as a means of increasing knowledge, parallels research in other areas in fascinating ways.
The province of the PhD is the exploration of new territories of design research, contributions to the knowledge base of the discipline, and steps toward the redefinition of aspects of design. The program also develops advanced technical research skills to prepare you for a career in industry, academia and other settings in which systematic and critical analytical skills are required.
Research is conducted through designing and the process of designing as a means of increasing knowledge. Candidates are supported and engaged in communities of practice where learning is fundamentally a social phenomenon; where knowledge is integrated in the life of these communities that share interests, ideas, discourses, ways of doing things and exploring the boundaries of design thinking.
The Doctor of Philosophy may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode.
How you will learn
Research at rmit, time spent on research.
Full-time candidates are expected to commit at least four days per week (or at least two days per week for part-time candidates) to their research. The academic year is 48 weeks.
Regular contact with your supervisor
A schedule of meetings with your supervisor/s must be established to assess progress against milestones and timely completion.
Resources, facilities and support
You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.
You will be part of an active research community and have access to resources and workshops to help you succeed.
School of Graduate Research
The School of Graduate Research works with Schools to further support candidates during their postgraduate research degree.
Learning outcomes
The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes .
Electives and course plan
You will complete this program under academic supervision.
The PhD program is structured to enable you to:
complete a compulsory research methods course
receive training in research integrity and ethics
select studies in qualitative and quantitative research techniques
complete a thesis/project which demonstrates your original contribution to the field and your ability to communicate complex or original research for peers and the community to an international standard
Research integrity modules
You are required to complete the online modules:
Research integrity
Copyright and intellectual property
Research methods for engineering and related disciplines
Research methods courses step you through the literature review and preparing your research proposal for confirmation of candidature. They are taught in large discipline groups.
You may need to complete an ethics module to ensure your research is ethical and responsible.
Research techniques
You may elect to take (where relevant) electives in qualitative or quantitative research techniques once data collection has begun. You can use your own data to explore different research analysis techniques. Your supervisor will help you decide when you should take these electives.
Co-curricular activities
You are encouraged to participate in activities offered with the university, college and school according to your needs and interests.
This PhD may be undertaken in a project, thesis by publication or thesis mode. Prospective candidates should discuss these modes of submission with their potential supervisor/s.
Course structure
Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.
*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time and 8 years part-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent and 6-8 years part-time equivalent.
*The maximum duration of the PhD program is 4 years full-time. However, candidates are expected to complete their program within 3-4 years full-time equivalent.
Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.
Upon graduation you may pursue an academic career in a university or be employed in senior positions in galleries, museums, festivals, non-government organisations, art organisations, companies, venues and studios.
You will also have the capacity to work as research fellows and postdoctoral research fellows on postdoctoral research projects in university and government organisations.
Entry requirements and admissions
Minimum requirements for admission, prerequisites, selection tasks.
The minimum requirements for admission to a PhD program are:
A bachelor's degree requiring at least four (4) years of full-time study in a relevant discipline awarded with honours. The degree should include a research component comprised of a thesis, other research projects or research methodology subjects that constitute at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent). The applicant must have achieved at least a distinction average in the final year. OR
A master's degree that includes a research component comprised of at least 25% of a full-time academic year (or part-time equivalent) with an overall distinction average; OR
A master's degree without a research component with at least a high distinction average; OR
Evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and/or experience that satisfies the Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research Training and Development or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program.
At RMIT a grade of distinction represents academic achievement of 70% or higher and a high distinction is 80% or higher.
If you are a current master by research candidate, you are able to apply for a transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the RMIT Higher Degree by Research policy .
The School of Architecture and Urban Design does not accept applications to its research programs before a potential applicant has satisfied a Pre-application Process, which should be completed before lodging a formal application with RMIT’s School of Graduate Research, or with RMIT International. See the Architecture & Design Pre-Application document (PDF 109KB 10p) for more details.
These entrance requirements are the minimum academic standard you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the program. You will need to complete a selection task as part of your application.
A selection process will be conducted in conjunction with the School and supervisors you nominate.
For further information on the steps you need to take to apply for a research program see How to apply – Research programs .
English language requirements
Research proposal and supervisor.
You must attach a substantive research proposal that is 2 to 5 pages in length which articulates the intent, significance and originality of the proposed topic using the following headings:
a) title / topic b) research questions to be investigated in the context of existing research/literature in the area c) significance and impact of the research d) methodology / research tasks required to undertake the research e) particular needs (e.g. resources, facilities, fieldwork or equipment that are necessary for your proposed research program, if applicable).
Your application will not be considered if you have not discussed your research topic with a proposed senior and associate supervisor or joint senior supervisors. You must provide the names of the academic staff in the school you have applied to and with whom you have discussed your proposed research.
To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:
IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.
For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information .
Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP) .
You can gain entry to this program from a range of RMIT four-year Bachelor and Honours degrees or Postgraduate or Masters by Research programs.
Fee summary
Fee information for masters by research and doctorate (PhD) programs.
If you are an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen you may be eligible for a Research Training Scheme (RTS) place where your tuition costs are funded by the Commonwealth Government under the RTS and you have full exemption from tuition fees.
Acceptance in an RTS place is very competitive and places are granted on the condition that you meet annual progress requirements and complete within the allotted time for your program and your status as a part-time or full-time candidate.
This means a maximum of 2 years for a full-time Masters by Research or 4 years for a PhD (or the equivalent part-time).
Contact the School of Graduate Research for more information.
The student services and amenities fee (SSAF) is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.
In addition to the SSAF there may be other expenses associated with your program.
Income tax deductions
Candidates may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to their employment. See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website for more information.
RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.
International applicants
Fees information for international candidates looking to study at RMIT's Melbourne campuses.
PhD and masters by research fees for international candidates studying offshore.
Other costs
Important fee information.
Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.
Applying for refunds
Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Looking for answers or more general information.
Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.
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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.
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Starting the research process
How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates
How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates
Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on September 5, 2024.
A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.
The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:
Introduction
Literature review.
Research design
Reference list
While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.
Table of contents
Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.
Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .
In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.
Research proposal aims
Show your reader why your project is interesting, original, and important.
Demonstrate your comfort and familiarity with your field. Show that you understand the current state of research on your topic.
Make a case for your . Demonstrate that you have carefully thought about the data, tools, and procedures necessary to conduct your research.
Confirm that your project is feasible within the timeline of your program or funding deadline.
Research proposal length
The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.
One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.
Download our research proposal template
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Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.
Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”
Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:
The proposed title of your project
Your supervisor’s name
Your institution and department
The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.
Your introduction should:
Introduce your topic
Give necessary background and context
Outline your problem statement and research questions
To guide your introduction , include information about:
Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
How much is already known about the topic
What is missing from this current knowledge
What new insights your research will contribute
Why you believe this research is worth doing
As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.
In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:
Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship
Following the literature review, restate your main objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.
Building a research proposal methodology
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, , , )?
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To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.
For example, your results might have implications for:
Improving best practices
Informing policymaking decisions
Strengthening a theory or model
Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
Creating a basis for future research
Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .
Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.
Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.
Download our research schedule template
Example research schedule
Research phase
Objectives
Deadline
1. Background research and literature review
20th January
2. Research design planning
and data analysis methods
13th February
3. Data collection and preparation
with selected participants and code interviews
24th March
4. Data analysis
of interview transcripts
22nd April
5. Writing
17th June
6. Revision
final work
28th July
If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.
Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:
Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
Source : how did you calculate the amount?
To determine your budget, think about:
Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?
If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.
Methodology
Sampling methods
Simple random sampling
Stratified sampling
Cluster sampling
Likert scales
Reproducibility
Statistics
Null hypothesis
Statistical power
Probability distribution
Effect size
Poisson distribution
Research bias
Optimism bias
Cognitive bias
Implicit bias
Hawthorne effect
Anchoring bias
Explicit bias
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.
Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.
A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.
A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.
A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.
All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.
Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.
Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.
The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.
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Research proposals
Your research proposal is a key part of your application. It tells us about the question you want to answer through your research. It is a chance for you to show your knowledge of the subject area and tell us about the methods you want to use.
We use your research proposal to match you with a supervisor or team of supervisors.
In your proposal, please tell us if you have an interest in the work of a specific academic at York St John. You can get in touch with this academic to discuss your proposal. You can also speak to one of our Research Leads. There is a list of our Research Leads on the Apply page.
When you write your proposal you need to:
Highlight how it is original or significant
Explain how it will develop or challenge current knowledge of your subject
Identify the importance of your research
Show why you are the right person to do this research
Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB)
Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB)
Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB)
Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB)
Subject specific guidance
Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
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Writing a research proposal for a PhD application
How to write a research proposal for a PhD application
What is a research proposal.
A research proposal gives details of the direction of your future research, usually based on a research question and a chapter-by-chapter approach to answering it.
For PhD applications, this proposal will be assessed to see:
whether the project is likely to be completed within three years of full-time research
whether it can be effectively supervised at the university
whether you are competent and keen enough to complete it.
There may be other factors affecting whether you get a place at the University of Brighton:
whether the project fits a growing or established research priority of the university
how the proposal fits with a current cohort and the research environment
A successful proposal will leave the panel in no doubt on these, and you should prepare to show the strength of your idea and demonstrate your suitability.
Within the proposal, you should take the opportunity to clearly outline your research idea; your research methodology and critical approaches; your experience in this field of research where you can; and how your work will be offering an original contribution to knowledge, theories and/or practice.
Find more details about a PhD in your discipline at the University of Brighton
How to get a prospective supervisor's help with your proposal
The strongest proposals are often ones that have been written jointly between a prospective student and prospective supervisor.
As Professor Pollen states in our film, supervisors have an understanding of the language used in proposals and the skillsets that asessors will want to see -- whether for a university position or a funding application.
To develop a strong proposal, we recommend you work with a possible supervisor at the University of Brighton who can help shape your project for feasibility and suitability within our institution. This person may then become your lead supervisor.
Please enable targeting cookies in order to view this video content on our website, or you can watch the video on YouTube .
What journey leads to a PhD application? This film was made by the University of Brighton for UKRI and features University of Brighton students and academics as well as those from other partner universities.
Finding a PhD theme and understanding the university research environment
You may be responding to an advertised call for a particular project that has already achieved funding. Alternatively, you may want to propose a personally developed project.
If you are responding to a call then the advertisement will have clear guidance as to what research experience and interest a candidate will need. This should help you structure your PhD research proposal.
If you are proposing a personally developed project then it should be carefully written to show the viability within the university's current research environment and a specific supervisory possibility at the university.
Some applicants have found our repository of theses helpful for the development and refinement of their research idea. You can find over 1000 theses completed at the University of Brighton over the past 40 years at our repository of successful PhD student theses .
Our research database has useful leads to potential supervisory staff and a strong idea of the university's current research priorities online:
Explore our PhD disciplinary programme search tools including free search and A-Z
Explore our research centres (COREs) or our research groups (REGs)
Visit our research database of staff, projects and organisational units.
Once you have identified a potential lead researcher of a research project most aligned to yours, do not hesitate to email them.
Explain who you are, your motivation to do a PhD in their field of study and with them. They will let you know if they are interested in your project and would be interested in potentially supervising your PhD. If they cannot commit, they may be able to help you identify another researcher who could be available and interested.
By liaising with a suitable supervisor, your proposal will benefit from expert help and be channelled towards the appropriate disciplinary environment.
If you are in doubt about whether we can offer the appropriate supervision, please contact the Doctoral College .
Find out more about your opportunities for a PHD on our FAQ page
What should a research proposal contain?
A research proposal should include the following:
1. Indicative title of the topic area
This should accurately reflect what it is that you want to study and the central issues that you are going to address.
It may be useful to present this in the format of a statement (perhaps a quote) and a question, separated by a colon. For example: '"The tantalising future of research": how are research proposals developed and assessed?'
2. Context / rationale / why is this study important? (300 – 500 words)
Introduce your specific area of study. You should identify the theoretical context within which your research will be developed by discussing the discipline(s) and or field/s of study relevant to your research.
This means outlining the key theoretical area(s) you will draw upon to enable you to find out what it is that you want to know (for example, how it is underpinned from methods in the social sciences; arts and humanities; life, health and physical sciences).
What we are looking for here is an indication that you understand and have done some research into the wider theoretical context.
Developing the context is just one part of this section; you are building a case / rationale for the study area. Why is this study important, which theoretical areas support this? Can you identify any gaps in current understanding that help you build the case for this research study?
For example, this section might take the form of: a series of statements on the current landmark areas of thought; a recognition of what has not yet been done thoroughly enough or where there is territory for research between these landmark studies; and where your study will fill the gaps you have identified.
3. Literature review (approximately 700 – 900 words)
Here you are demonstrating that you are aware of what has been and what is currently being written about your topic.
It will certainly include the up-to-date and relevant past landmark academic literature. It may also include other evidence of current thought and attitude, for example, government documents or media coverage. Practice-led PhD studies may make reference to innovation and trends in industry or professional practice.
We are looking for you to make links between this body of literature and your proposed area of study. This will support the ways you have identified gaps in the current global knowledge-base. A PhD thesis arises from original research leading to new knowledge or a significant contribution to existing knowledge. If, at this stage, you have some thoughts on how your research is likely to contribute to knowledge then include details in your proposal.
This section should include citations which are compiled into a reference list at the end of the document (see point 7).
4. The research questions or hypotheses (approximately 200 words)
Having told us what you want to study and why, and then illustrated these ideas with reference to a body of literature, the next task is to distil your ideas into a tentative set of research questions, hypotheses, aims and objectives (as per the underpinning discipline requires) that are manageable and achievable within a normal PhD timeframe (see 6 below). There are typically between three and ten questions/aims of this kind.
5. Research approach/ methodologies / methods (approximately 400 words)
There will be many research approaches open to you. In your proposal, suggest the methodological approach that you might take and make a reasoned case as to why the research questions you have posed are best addressed by this approach.
You might also suggest what methods you would use to generate data that can help you address your research questions.
A full-time PhD should take three years to complete, although you may require more time to acquire the relevant skills prior to commencing your research. Part-time study will take longer (up to five - six years). Within this timeframe, you will need to demonstrate your awareness of time management and planning, for example the length of time for primary research/ fieldwork.
7. Reference list
You should include a reference list of all the sources that you referred to in the text using a recognised referencing style appropriate to your discipline (for example Harvard or Vancouver for Sciences).
Evidence of thorough background reading might include between ten and twenty citations at this point. They should demonstrate to an expert that you are knowledgeable of the landmark work in your field.
There are a number of books widely available that may help in preparing your research proposal (as well as in completing your research degree), here are a couple to point you in the right direction:
Bell, J (2010, 5th edn) Doing Your Research Project: A Guide for First-time Researchers in Education & Social Science , Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Baxter, L, Hughes, C and Tight, M (2007, 3rd edn) How to Research , Buckingham: Open University Press.
Research proposals in practice-led and professionally-based disciplines
The University of Brighton prides itself on the quality of its research in areas that intersect with professional practices and direct impact through in-the-field relationships with co-producers.
We are very supportive of doctoral projects that bring positive results from these methodolgies and practices.
Some of the subject areas that have supported personal practice as research include: design, art, architecture, media production and creative writing, with successful approaches including autoethnographic methods and public participation or site-specific interventions.
Some of the areas that have benefited from significant professional practice and industry relationship-focused research have included: engineering, nursing, business administration and teaching.
The research proposal will still need to demonstrate your capability as a researcher with a project that is workable and fits with the university's interests and capacities.
You should, however, adapt your proposal to demonstrate the value that your practice can bring to the research. This should be in tandem with a clear understanding of the relationship between practice and research.
A clear competence in practice should be evidenced, but do be aware that your proposal will be judged on its research and the new knowledge that is developed and shared, rather than the quality of practice in and of itself.
Personal practices, experiences and data gained through professional relationships may form part of a standard PhD thesis and proposal as description of work and resulting data. You will only be appyling for a practice-led component to be taken into account if this will form a significant part of the representation and examination of the knowledge-base. In such cases, the thesis is signficantly shorter.
Some pitfalls in the applications for practice-led or practice-focused research include:
An imbalance between the practical and theoretical elements
Too arbitrary a divide between the practice and theory
Using practice to simply provide personal illustrations of established theories or concepts
Insufficient sense of how the research knowledge will be held and disseminated
Insufficiently contained scope for a three-year project – for example, where the practice is described as a life-long investigation – with no clarity on an end-point
A project that could be better or similarly tackled through a standard PhD in terms of efficient response to the research questions. For example where the practice element might be represented as data or results instead of examined practice.
Your potential supervisor will be able to advise where a proposal will include significant elements beyond the traditional thesis. For further information, please contact the Doctoral College .
A set of designed objects submitted as part of a practice-led PhD project in medical therapeutic design, by Dr Tom Ainsworth, who went on to become a teacher, researcher and supervisor at the University of Brighton.
Schools & departments
Writing your PhD research proposal
Find guidance on how to write your PhD research proposal and a template form for you to use to submit your research proposal.
By asking you for an outline research proposal we hope to get a good picture of your research interests and your understanding of what such research is likely to entail.
The University's application form is designed to enable you to give an overview of your academic experience and qualifications for study at postgraduate level. Your outline research proposal then gives us an idea of the kind of research you want to undertake. This, together with information from your referees, will help us assess whether the Moray House School of Education and Sport would be the appropriate place for you to pursue your research interests.
At the application stage, you are unlikely to be in a position to provide a comprehensive research proposal; the detailed shaping up of a research plan would be done in conjunction with your supervisor(s). But it is important for us to appreciate what you are hoping to investigate, how you plan to carry out the research, and what the results might be expected to contribute to current knowledge and understanding in the relevant academic field(s) of study. In writing your proposal, please indicate any prior academic or employment experience relevant to your planned research.
In your research proposal, please also ensure that you clearly identify the Moray House research cluster your proposal falls under, as well as two to three staff members with expertise in this area. We also encourage you to contact potential supervisors within your area of proposed research before submitting your application to gauge their interest and availability.
How to write your research proposal
The description of your proposed research should consist of 4-5 typed A4 sheets. It can take whatever form seems best, but should include some information about the following:
The general area within which you wish to conduct research, and why (you might find it helpful to explain what stimulated your interest in your chosen research field, and any study or research in the area that you have already undertaken)
The kind of research questions that you would hope to address, and why (in explaining what is likely to be the main focus of your research, it may be helpful to indicate, for example, why these issues are of particular concern and the way in which they relate to existing literature)
The sources of information and type of research methods you plan to use (for example, how you plan to collect your data, which sources you will be targeting and how you will access these data sources).
In addition to the above, please include any comments you are able to make concerning:
The approach that you will take to analyse your research data
The general timetable you would follow for carrying out and writing up your research
Any plans you may have for undertaking fieldwork away from Edinburgh
Any problems that might be anticipated in carrying out your proposed research
Please note: This guidance applies to all candidates, except those applying to conduct PhD research as part of a larger, already established research project (for example, in the Institute for Sport, Physical Education & Health Sciences).
In this case, you should provide a two- to three-page description of a research project you have undertaken, to complement information in the application form. If you are in any doubt as to what is appropriate, please contact us:
All doctoral proposals submitted as part of an application will be run through plagiarism detection software.
Template form for your research proposal
All applicants for a PhD or MSc by Research must submit a research proposal as part of their application. Applicants must use the template form below for their research proposal. This research proposal should then be submitted online as part of your application. Please use Calibri size 11 font size and do not change the paragraph spacing (single, with 6pt after each paragraph) or the page margins.
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You are currently on: Research proposal guidelines
Research proposal guidelines
Read our guidelines for how to plan and structure your PhD research proposal during your provisional year.
Research proposal facts Length : 20-30 pages (not more than 10,000 words) Due date : 9-10 months from your registration date Reviewed by : Two academics appointed by your supervisor
What is a research proposal?
A full research proposal contains the following sections:
A summary or abstract of the proposal
A statement of the issue, problem, question or hypothesis and its importance and significance
A review of significant prior research (Literature Review)
Methods for data collection and analysis
Ethical considerations
Limitations
Key assumptions
References used in the proposal
Different academic disciplines have different styles in how they structure this material.
For a detailed breakdown of each section, visit Structuring your research proposal .
Please check with your supervisors as to the template they want you to use.
For more details about the research proposal development please read the Generic Guidelines for Full Doctoral Research Proposals .
Building your ideas
A research proposal is not simply a list of good ideas worth researching. It should detail:
Why the idea is good
How it fits with previous research
How it will contribute to knowledge
How you will explore your ideas (your planned research approach, methodologies and analysis techniques)
The transition from thesis idea to well-defined proposal is often difficult. It may take several months or more. During this period, you should:
Explore your field of interest
Read extensively around the area
Select possible topics
Formulate research questions
This is independent study that may not require strong or direct supervision. However, once you have identified the key questions you want to explore, it’s time to write the research proposal. For this, you should work closely with your supervisor.
More than a plan
Your proposal is your research and thesis writing roadmap. It also provides your supervisor and other faculty staff with information they can review, suggest improvements (if needed) and approve.
If your proposal is detailed and explicit, this will put you on the right path to conducting proper research, documenting it clearly and producing a final thesis with a high chance of acceptance.
Be aware that your first proposal is often not your final one. You will undergo a process of refining and revision, incorporating critical comments and suggestions from your supervisors and other academic staff. These revised drafts will be further reviewed before final submission to the faculty.
Think about your final thesis
When developing your proposal, it’s useful to remind yourself of what the examiners will be looking for in the final completed thesis.
A good thesis will contain the following elements:
A distinct contribution to knowledge
Evidence of the discovery of new knowledge or the exercise of independent judgement
Literary presentation
Original work of merit worth of publication
Evidence of competence in independent research
Understanding of concepts, issues, techniques and methodology
Critical use of published work and source materials
Write for a broader audience
All doctorate research topics must be related to one or more specialist areas, including published literature and established methodologies.
However, that does not mean you should write for an informed niche audience. Since the proposal must receive the approval of the Faculty of Education and Social Work, it should contain enough detail to be understood by members of staff whose expertise may not be in the literature and methodology areas you have selected.
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Successful thesis proposals in architecture and urban planning
Figure 1 summarizes the process pursued to develop the "Successful TP Conception". From 2000 to 2005, the conception was proposed and included in an unpublished textbook (Abdellatif and Abdellatif, 2005). From 2005 to 2020, the conception has been applied on several batches of graduate students in the College of Architecture and Planning ...
PDF Guidance on writing a PhD Research Proposal
Guidance on writing aPhD Research ProposalThe School of the Built Environment and Architecture (BEA), London South Bank University, requires specifi. information in the Research Proposal (RP). Students need to be both imaginative and prac. ical in drawing up their research proposal. Innovative research ideas are welcome, however devising a realist.
Architecture with Landscape Methods (PhD plan 1st year proposal)
19 20 Architecture with Landscape Methods Architecture with Landscape Methods - Part II Sample Field Trip by Daniel Jauslin Rolex Learning Center Ecole Polytechnique Féderale Lausanne 2004-2010 SANAA Kazuyo Sejima & Ryue Nishizawa Architects Tokyo II.1.Introduction II.1.1 This Paper in Relation to the Thesis This paper is part two of the ...
How to Write a Great PhD Research Proposal
The best place to look for a PhD proposal sample is your university. Consider asking your supervisor if they can share a good proposal from a previous student in your subject - or put you in touch with a current student you can ask. #3 Confuse the proposal with the PhD. We've covered this on the blog, but it's simple enough to include here too.
PDF How To Write a Good PhD Research Proposal
A PhD proposal is an outline of your proposed project. It needs to: Define a clear question and approach to answering it. Highlight its originality and/or significance. Explain how it adds to, develops (or challenges) existing literature in the field. Persuade potential supervisors of the importance of the work, and why you are the right person ...
Ph.D. in Architecture
The PHD in Architecture addresses the development of modern architectural form and ideas as they have been affected by social, economic, and technological change. In broad terms, it encompasses the relations between the profession, practice, civil institutions, and the society at large. As a doctoral program, it is oriented toward the training ...
PhD in Architecture & Design Research
The architectural discipline is in constant flux, requiring the ongoing development of new modes of design research. The PhD in Architecture & Design Research is focused on anticipating and shaping the future of practice. Our mission is to create new avenues of investigation, expand knowledge bases, solve time-sensitive, contemporary issues ...
Successful thesis proposals in architecture and urban planning
Purpose -The purpose of this research is to improve the understanding of what constitutes a successful thesis. proposal (TP) and as such enhance the quality of the TP writing in architecture ...
Architectural Design MPhil/PhD
To discuss a potential Architectural Design MPhil/PhD, it is recommended that you read the profile of the principal supervisor with whom you would like to work and email them a research proposal. Alternatively, you may contact the Programme Director. Current supervisors Current supervisors. Dr Paul Bavister Sound, architecture, technology and ...
How to apply for the PhD in Architecture
Research Proposal of 1000 - 1500 words should consist of a topic and a hypothesis, a literature review, a statement on method, and key references; Application Deadlines. The PhD in Architecture commences in October each year and applications for the course can be made from the preceding September.
PhD Research Proposal Template With Examples
A comprehensive research proposal is one of the most important parts of your PhD application, as it explains what you plan to research, what your aims and objectives are, and how you plan to meet those objectives. Below you will find a research proposal template you can use to write your own PhD proposal, along with examples of specific sections.
Doctor of Philosophy
Sample format for the required CV. Research proposal Applicants for graduate research programs must include a research proposal. The proposal should be two to three pages (1,500-2,000 words) in length and address the following: The research question expressed briefly and in simple English (it can include technical terms)
Research Proposal Example (PDF + Template)
Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template. If you're getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals, you've come to the right place. In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals, one for a Master's-level project, and one for a PhD-level ...
PhD (Architecture & Design)
The province of the PhD is the exploration of new territories of design research, contributions to the knowledge base of the discipline, and steps toward the redefinition of aspects of design. The program also develops advanced technical research skills to prepare you for a career in industry, academia and other settings in which systematic and ...
PDF Letter of Intent Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Architecture Submitted
Architecture program, comparable programs and professional practice, from which we anticipate to attract candidates. 1.0. Letter of Intent 1.1. Degree Name and Description Proposed Program Name - PhD Program in Architecture Proposed Degree Designation - PhD (Architecture)
How to Write a Research Proposal
Research proposal examples. Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We've included a few for you below. Example research proposal #1: "A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management".
PDF How to write a good postgraduate RESEARCH PROPOSAL
by your chosen PhD programme at the University of Edinburgh. If a School/Deanery template is available, you should use this - otherwise the School/Deanery may reject your application. If you are not given any guidelines on how to format your research proposal, you could adopt the suggested structure below.
PDF A Guide to Writing your PhD Proposal
Therefore, in a good research proposal you will need to demonstrate two main things: 1. that you are capable of independent critical thinking and analysis. 2. that you are capable of communicating your ideas clearly. Applying for a PhD is like applying for a job, you are not applying for a taught programme.
Examples of Research proposals
Examples of research proposals. Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB) Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB) Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB) Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB) Subject specific guidance. Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB) Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
How to write a research proposal for a PhD application
5. Research approach/ methodologies / methods (approximately 400 words) There will be many research approaches open to you. In your proposal, suggest the methodological approach that you might take and make a reasoned case as to why the research questions you have posed are best addressed by this approach.
PDF Writing a research proposal
Guidance for PhD applicants Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge. The 1,500 word research proposal is an important element of your application to doctoral study, whether full-time or part-time. It offers you the opportunity to outline the research you intend to conduct, including how you plan to go about it, and how your research might ...
Writing your PhD research proposal
All applicants for a PhD or MSc by Research must submit a research proposal as part of their application. Applicants must use the template form below for their research proposal. This research proposal should then be submitted online as part of your application. Please use Calibri size 11 font size and do not change the paragraph spacing ...
Research proposal guidelines
A full research proposal contains the following sections: A summary or abstract of the proposal. A statement of the issue, problem, question or hypothesis and its importance and significance. A review of significant prior research (Literature Review) A description of research methodology, covering. Methods for data collection and analysis.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Figure 1 summarizes the process pursued to develop the "Successful TP Conception". From 2000 to 2005, the conception was proposed and included in an unpublished textbook (Abdellatif and Abdellatif, 2005). From 2005 to 2020, the conception has been applied on several batches of graduate students in the College of Architecture and Planning ...
Guidance on writing aPhD Research ProposalThe School of the Built Environment and Architecture (BEA), London South Bank University, requires specifi. information in the Research Proposal (RP). Students need to be both imaginative and prac. ical in drawing up their research proposal. Innovative research ideas are welcome, however devising a realist.
19 20 Architecture with Landscape Methods Architecture with Landscape Methods - Part II Sample Field Trip by Daniel Jauslin Rolex Learning Center Ecole Polytechnique Féderale Lausanne 2004-2010 SANAA Kazuyo Sejima & Ryue Nishizawa Architects Tokyo II.1.Introduction II.1.1 This Paper in Relation to the Thesis This paper is part two of the ...
The best place to look for a PhD proposal sample is your university. Consider asking your supervisor if they can share a good proposal from a previous student in your subject - or put you in touch with a current student you can ask. #3 Confuse the proposal with the PhD. We've covered this on the blog, but it's simple enough to include here too.
A PhD proposal is an outline of your proposed project. It needs to: Define a clear question and approach to answering it. Highlight its originality and/or significance. Explain how it adds to, develops (or challenges) existing literature in the field. Persuade potential supervisors of the importance of the work, and why you are the right person ...
The PHD in Architecture addresses the development of modern architectural form and ideas as they have been affected by social, economic, and technological change. In broad terms, it encompasses the relations between the profession, practice, civil institutions, and the society at large. As a doctoral program, it is oriented toward the training ...
The architectural discipline is in constant flux, requiring the ongoing development of new modes of design research. The PhD in Architecture & Design Research is focused on anticipating and shaping the future of practice. Our mission is to create new avenues of investigation, expand knowledge bases, solve time-sensitive, contemporary issues ...
Purpose -The purpose of this research is to improve the understanding of what constitutes a successful thesis. proposal (TP) and as such enhance the quality of the TP writing in architecture ...
To discuss a potential Architectural Design MPhil/PhD, it is recommended that you read the profile of the principal supervisor with whom you would like to work and email them a research proposal. Alternatively, you may contact the Programme Director. Current supervisors Current supervisors. Dr Paul Bavister Sound, architecture, technology and ...
Research Proposal of 1000 - 1500 words should consist of a topic and a hypothesis, a literature review, a statement on method, and key references; Application Deadlines. The PhD in Architecture commences in October each year and applications for the course can be made from the preceding September.
A comprehensive research proposal is one of the most important parts of your PhD application, as it explains what you plan to research, what your aims and objectives are, and how you plan to meet those objectives. Below you will find a research proposal template you can use to write your own PhD proposal, along with examples of specific sections.
Sample format for the required CV. Research proposal Applicants for graduate research programs must include a research proposal. The proposal should be two to three pages (1,500-2,000 words) in length and address the following: The research question expressed briefly and in simple English (it can include technical terms)
Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template. If you're getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals, you've come to the right place. In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals, one for a Master's-level project, and one for a PhD-level ...
The province of the PhD is the exploration of new territories of design research, contributions to the knowledge base of the discipline, and steps toward the redefinition of aspects of design. The program also develops advanced technical research skills to prepare you for a career in industry, academia and other settings in which systematic and ...
Architecture program, comparable programs and professional practice, from which we anticipate to attract candidates. 1.0. Letter of Intent 1.1. Degree Name and Description Proposed Program Name - PhD Program in Architecture Proposed Degree Designation - PhD (Architecture)
Research proposal examples. Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We've included a few for you below. Example research proposal #1: "A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management".
by your chosen PhD programme at the University of Edinburgh. If a School/Deanery template is available, you should use this - otherwise the School/Deanery may reject your application. If you are not given any guidelines on how to format your research proposal, you could adopt the suggested structure below.
Therefore, in a good research proposal you will need to demonstrate two main things: 1. that you are capable of independent critical thinking and analysis. 2. that you are capable of communicating your ideas clearly. Applying for a PhD is like applying for a job, you are not applying for a taught programme.
Examples of research proposals. Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB) Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB) Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB) Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB) Subject specific guidance. Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB) Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
5. Research approach/ methodologies / methods (approximately 400 words) There will be many research approaches open to you. In your proposal, suggest the methodological approach that you might take and make a reasoned case as to why the research questions you have posed are best addressed by this approach.
Guidance for PhD applicants Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge. The 1,500 word research proposal is an important element of your application to doctoral study, whether full-time or part-time. It offers you the opportunity to outline the research you intend to conduct, including how you plan to go about it, and how your research might ...
All applicants for a PhD or MSc by Research must submit a research proposal as part of their application. Applicants must use the template form below for their research proposal. This research proposal should then be submitted online as part of your application. Please use Calibri size 11 font size and do not change the paragraph spacing ...
A full research proposal contains the following sections: A summary or abstract of the proposal. A statement of the issue, problem, question or hypothesis and its importance and significance. A review of significant prior research (Literature Review) A description of research methodology, covering. Methods for data collection and analysis.