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The School of Architecture and Urban Design is globally renowned for its pioneering approach and outstanding achievements in design research. RMIT maintains that research unfolds through the act of designing, with the creative process serving as a knowledge-generating endeavor that mirrors academic inquiry in other fields.
The PhD program focuses on pioneering new frontiers in design research, expanding the discipline's knowledge foundation, and potentially reshaping key aspects of design practice. This program equips students with sophisticated research capabilities for careers across academia, industry, and other sectors demanding rigorous analytical expertise.
Design practice serves as both the medium and method for research-driven knowledge creation. Students join vibrant communities of practice where learning emerges through collaboration - sharing perspectives, methodologies, and pushing the boundaries of design theory. The Doctor of Philosophy can be pursued through project-based work, thesis by publication, or traditional thesis format.
Graduates may enter academia or assume leadership roles in cultural institutions, creative enterprises, NGOs, and research organizations. The program prepares individuals for positions as research fellows, postdoctoral researchers, and senior practitioners across university and government research initiatives.