For the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the University of Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning, candidates undertake an approved program of supervised, advanced research, which constitutes an original contribution to knowledge. Students will be examined for the degree by completing a body of work presented in one of two forms:

a substantial written thesis of 60,000-80,000 words that, through a sustained investigation, demonstrates an original contribution to knowledge; or

a thesis comprising a substantial body of design-based work plus a written text of 30,000-50,000 words examining the contextual and theoretical underpinnings of the design-based work, both of which demonstrate an original contribution to knowledge.

For the dual mode (b) above, the length of the written thesis will be agreed through consultation between the candidate, the supervisory team and the Associate Dean (Research Education) during the probationary period and any changes will need to be approved by the supervisor and Associate Dean (Research Education).

Applications for a proposed course of research and advanced study must include:

satisfactory evidence of the applicant's eligibility for admission as per University requirements based on the University of Sydney (Higher Degree by Research) Rule 2011 (as amended).

written evidence confirming that an academic within the School, with an academic background appropriate to the candidate's proposed research:

supports the applicant's research proposal; and

is willing to supervise the research;

written evidence confirming that an appropriate person is willing to act as an auxiliary supervisor for the research; and

a written preliminary research proposal developed in conjunction with the proposed supervisor and in the form specified by the University school.

The first year of enrolment is probationary for all PhD candidates. The probationary period will be for a minimum of two research periods but not exceed four research periods.

Candidates need to satisfy the probationary requirements listed in the University school resolutions and meet compulsory criteria as advised during their probationary period.

Candidates must meet all probation requirements of applicable University Rules, policies and procedures including but not limited to:

Candidates proceeding by the design-based research option must submit for examination:

a permanent record of the design-based work (must be in the form of durable, portable visual, audio-visual, or other digital media); and

a research paper or text on the design-based work. Work submitted must meet the requirements outlined by the Design PhD Director (if applicable) and approved by the Associate Dean (Research Education).

Candidates must meet all requirements of applicable University Rules, policies and procedures including but not limited to:

These course resolutions apply to students who commenced their candidature after 1 January, 2019 and students who commenced their candidature prior to 1 January, 2019 who elect to proceed under these resolutions.

Candidates who commenced prior to 1 January, 2019 may complete the requirements in accordance with the resolutions in force at the time of their commencement, provided that requirements are completed within the time limits specified in those resolutions. The Head of School and Dean or Associate Dean may specify a later date for completion or specify alternative requirements for completion of candidatures that extend beyond this time.