The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD HES Architectural Studies) degree is designed for individuals who are interested in acquiring the knowledge and skills that are needed to conduct substantive, innovative, and original research that contribute to the theoretical and methodological foundation of architecture and interior design, and the dissemination of this research through teaching, publication, and practice. To this end, the curriculum is structured so that students move gradually from overview of architectural research to the identification and pursuit of major and minor areas of specialization and, finally, to highly specialized original dissertation research. This framework promotes stimulating intellectual discourse among individuals with varying research philosophies and interests.Both faculty and students interact within this framework to develop an enhanced understanding of how specialized research contributes to the definition and evolution of an improved theoretical and methodological basis for architectural studies.Doctoral study in Architectural Studies, College of Human Environmental Sciences, is research based and expands knowledge in the ''major'' areas of either environment and behavior or design with digital media. The major area is defined as that area of specialization in the Doctoral Program within which the student is expected to write his/her dissertation. The program encourages an interdisciplinary, scholarly climate celebrating aesthetic values and the human sciences. Consistent attention is placed on planning and designing physical environments that support human needs and aspirations. Course work may include courses in supportive areas such as the human and physical sciences, art, humanities and allied design professions.