Program Description

Design Studies PhD Program has been established as a continuation of the Design Studies Masters Program to conduct advanced research on the discourse, theory, methodology and history on design and design related issues and to provide original scientific outcomes covering all design related fields.

The program aims to develop scientific expertise and capabilities in the field of design studies through the use of creative and critical thinking as well as research skills; innovatively contribute to the discipline by new ideas. It is expected that the Design Studies PhD students will be equipped with the skills of comprehending the interaction across various disciplines related to the field of design, reaching at original conclusions via using new and complex analysis, synthesis and evaluation skills. As novice researchers, every student is expected to be able to conduct an individual research study in the field of design, to be able to analyze the problems from a wider and critical point of view, to be able to synthesize and evaluate the findings. Design Studies PhD Program is also aiming to educate specialized academicians who can develop skills of designing and producing unique models and products that will be certificated as registered design, trade mark and patents through scientific research and theoretical knowledge production.

The priority of the program is to be creative in the design field. It is aimed to make further research and acknowledge the innovational updates in all fields of design. That is why the curriculum has many options in elective courses. As soon as their courses, competency/comprehensive exam, and thesis proposal are completed, students start to work on their doctoral theses. Design Studies doctoral program also allows students to accomplish conjunct doctoral studies.