Course Contents

ARCH 601 | Research Methods and Ethics in Architectural Studies

On one hand it is intended to introduce theories that can be used in architectural research by readings and classroom discussions. On the other hand, it is expected that students define a research problem in the fields of architecture-design-planning, achieve a literature research, accomplish field studies such as measurements and interviews, and evaluate the data obtained through scientific methods.

ARCH 690 | Seminar

In this course, students conduct original research on a specific topic within their field of study, report this research, and present it orally at the end of the semester. By means of this report and oral presentation, it is ensured that the basic principles of scientific rules, spelling, and presentation rules that the student should follow in his/her thesis study are conveyed. The course involves independent study under the guidance of an advisor, focusing on: • Identifying a research topic • Conducting a comprehensive literature review • Preparing a seminar report • Delivering a seminar presentation • Evaluating feedback and finalizing the report.

ARCH 696 | Ph.D. Qualification Studies and Exam

This course comprises the PhD Qualifying Examination and the related preparatory studies for PhD Qualifying Examination within the scope of the Doctoral Program in Architecture. It is a non-credit, compulsory course. It is intended for doctoral students who have completed their coursework and seminar requirements and whose thesis topics have been approved. The course includes the evaluation—through both written and oral examinations—of the student’s knowledge in their research area, as well as the research they have conducted under the supervision of their advisor on a specific topic within that area, assessed by an examination jury. The PhD Qualifying process consists of the following stages: • Comprehensive reading and analysis of the relevant literature • In-depth examination of theoretical and methodological issues • Preparation for the written exam within the scope defined by the examination committee • Preparation for the oral defense following the written exam • Transition to the doctoral thesis proposal stage upon successful completion of the exam.

ARCH 699 | Thesis

This course is the main course of the Doctoral (PhD) program in Architecture, and it covers the doctoral dissertation study. It is a non-credit and compulsory course. Throughout the course, all essential phases of the dissertation process are carried out, including the identification of the dissertation topic, definition of its purpose, scope, and objectives, conducting a comprehensive literature review, selection of the research methodology, development of research content, and the writing of the dissertation. Under the supervision of their academic advisors, students are expected to design and implement an original research plan. During this process, they engage in advanced studies on scientific research methods, ethical standards, literature analysis, data collection and analysis techniques, academic writing conventions, and presentation skills. By the end of the course, students are expected to complete their doctoral dissertation in compliance with academic and ethical standards as well as the Graduate School’s Thesis Writing Guidelines, and to successfully defend it before a jury.