The PhD in Architecture (English) at Gazi University is a doctoral programme for students who want to study architecture deeply — including design theory, building technology, urban context and research methods. The programme combines creative design work, academic courses and independent research. Students have the chance to explore advanced topics like sustainable architecture, restoration, urban design, building physics, and architectural history. With this degree, you can contribute new ideas, designs or research to architecture. The programme accepts students who already hold a relevant master’s degree and starts every fall.
Based in Ankara — a city that blends history, modern development and rich architectural heritage — this PhD programme offers a creative and scholarly learning environment. Students work with experienced faculty, access design and research studios, and take part in workshops on architecture, urbanism and building technology. With its mix of practical work and academic research, the programme helps students gain strong design, analytical and critical thinking skills. Graduates leave ready to influence architectural theory, professional design practice or urban research both in Turkey and abroad.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters
- Location: Ankara
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, research-based)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Architecture, Urban Design & Building Technology
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction (with MSc background)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Research Foundations & Electives
- Research Methods in Architecture
- Architectural Theory Seminars
- Elective Course I
- Elective Course II
Semester 2 – Advanced Theory & Design Studies
- Building Technology / Materials Course
- Urban Studies / Urban Context Course
- Elective Course III
- Seminar / Colloquium
Semester 3 – Thesis Proposal & Planning
- Thesis Proposal Preparation
- Literature Review & Research Design
- Supervisor Meetings / Research Planning
- Elective Course IV
Semester 4 – Beginning of Thesis Research
- Research Work / Design Research / Field Studies
- Data Collection, Case Studies or Modelling
- Seminar / Progress Presentation
- Elective Course V
Semester 5 – Research & Design Investigation
- Continued Research / Experimental Work / Modelling
- Urban or Architectural Case Studies
- Data Analysis / Design Development
- Research Meetings & Seminar
Semester 6 – Advanced Research & Writing
- Research or Design Work / Prototype / Simulation
- Writing Preliminary Thesis Drafts
- Seminar or Workshop Participation
- Elective Course VI
Semester 7 – Thesis Writing Stage
- Writing Main Dissertation Chapters
- Final Design or Research Work
- Publication or Conference Preparation
- Supervisor Feedback Sessions
Semester 8 – Final Thesis & Defence
- Final Thesis Writing or Design Project Completion
- Oral Defence / Jury Presentation
- Corrections and Final Submission
- Portfolio & Academic Presentation Development
Career Opportunities
With a PhD in Architecture, you can work as an academic researcher, university lecturer, urban researcher, architectural consultant, or expert in heritage restoration and sustainable design. You may join universities, research institutes, urban planning offices, architectural firms, public institutions or international organisations. This degree also prepares you to lead design studios, manage projects, advise on urban policy or work on global architectural research. If you enjoy combining design and research, you can publish academic papers, participate in international conferences, or lead interdisciplinary projects in architecture, urban planning or building technology.
Why Choose This Program
This PhD programme in Architecture is ideal for people who love design, research and creative thinking. You will get the chance to explore deep architectural questions, study theory, and create new designs or research outputs. The supportive faculty, design studios, and research facilities help you grow as an architect and researcher. The flexible structure and elective choices let you shape your path in areas like sustainable design, urbanism, restoration or building science. You will build strong skills in critical thinking, design research and academic writing.
Also, the programme’s English-medium instruction and international outlook allow you to connect with architects and researchers around the world. You can work on global projects, join international networks or continue your academic career abroad. The mix of practical design work and deep research training makes this PhD programme a solid foundation for a future as an influential architect, researcher or educator. It opens doors to both academic and professional success.
Contact Information
Gazi University – Graduate School of Natural & Applied Sciences
Teknikokullar Campus
Ankara, Turkey
Tel: +90 312 202 20 00
Email: info@gazi.edu.tr
Department of Architecture – Programme Contact
Faculty of Architecture, Gazi University
Ankara, Turkey
Tel: +90 312 202 20 00
Email: architecture@gazi.edu.tr
International / Admissions Office – Gazi University
Teknikokullar Campus, Ankara
Tel: +90 312 202 20 00
Fax: +90 312 202 20 00
Email: international@gazi.edu.tr
