Programme components

Picture of arcchitectural models and books. Photo: NTNU
 

Training programme

NTNU requires the Candidate to complete a training programme of at least 30 credits.
The recommended composition of the training programme consists of:

  •  AAR8320 Introduction to research methods and theories of science for PhD Candidates (compulsory), 7.5 credits
  •  Course in theories of science and/or course in research methods
  • 1–2 elective subject courses

The available courses are listed in the course descriptions for the PhD Syllabus.

AAR8320 Introduction to research methods and theories of science for PhD Candidates (7.5 credits) must be included. We recommend that a course in theories of science is included in the training programme, possibly complemented by a course in research methods. These courses can be completed at other NTNU faculties, or at other institutions for higher education providing doctorate educations. The Candidate is required to complete the final examination or another form of assessment for all courses included in the training programme.

NTNU encourages the PhD candidates to complete part of their studies abroad. Courses completed at foreign institutions with cooperation agreements with NTNU will be approved as part of the training programme. This can also apply for courses completed at other institutions. Approval by application.

The subject course is determined in each case per agreement between the Candidate and the supervisor, and is adapted to the Candidate's needs of subject material in their preparations and work with the thesis.  
As architects can have difficulties finding relevant subjects they have not already been through in their basic education, from what the faculty offers, studies within other university subjects is encouraged. Such opportunities must be approved by the PhD Committee in each case, both academically and formally.

Thesis

The research programme leads to a scientific thesis, which at the end of the programme must be defended publicly and approved by an assessment committee appointed by the faculty. The research should be basic and original within the selected field, and is performed under the guidance of a primary supervisor and co-supervisor(s). Parts of the thesis should normally be published in international journals with peer review (article based theses). The thesis can also be published as a monograph.

Guidelines for article based theses (.pdf)