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The University of Cincinnati's Ph.D. in Architecture is an advanced post-professional program emphasizing theoretical exploration and critical analysis of architectural works, both physical and conceptual. Designed for individuals holding a graduate degree in architecture or allied disciplines like interior design, urban planning, or landscape architecture, this program builds upon the university's established MS in Architecture curriculum, which has historically emphasized architectural history, theory, and critique. Students engage with diverse architectural concepts while developing analytical skills to evaluate structures and related scholarly works.
Beyond foundational courses in architectural theory and research methodology, participants select a minor concentration, pass a comprehensive qualifying examination in their major field, and defend a dissertation proposal by their third year to attain ABD (All But Dissertation) status. The final years are dedicated to researching, composing, and defending the doctoral thesis. With faculty specializing in areas ranging from human-environment interactions and computational design to the program's core strengths in historical and theoretical studies, the curriculum supports varied research interests. The major examination involves multiple days of written testing based on a committee-approved reading list.
For the minor requirement, students can either design an individualized study plan under a faculty advisor (distinct from their dissertation chair) or select from university-approved graduate certificates. Frequently chosen options include Historic Preservation, Urban Design, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and Data Analytics.