Doctor of Philosophy in Architectural Engineering
About This Programme
A research doctorate in architectural engineering and building science.
Course Highlights
- Taught at UAEU, ranked #217 in the QS World University Rankings 2027
- American-style credit-hour degree taught in English
- Research doctorate with supervision across the college's research areas
What You'll Study
Taught full time, in person, on an American-style credit-hour system, primarily in English.
Coursework
24 credit hours: 6 credit hours required core, 12 credit hours specialization electives (select 4), 6 credit hours free electives (700-level, approved by the advisory committee)
- PhD Research Seminar1 credit
- Research Methods2 credits
- Optimization Methods for Engineering3 credits
Select 4 specialization electives, plus 6 credit hours of free electives
- Advanced Qualitative Research Methods3 credits
- Behavior and Building Performance3 credits
- Advanced Critical Thinking in the Built Environment3 credits
- Planning for Urban Resilience3 credits
- Housing and Urbanization3 credits
- Energy Optimization in Built Environment Design3 credits
- Advanced Intelligent Built Environment Systems3 credits
Comprehensive / Qualifying Examination
Comprehensive Exam and Research Proposal (0 credit hours) taken after coursework to advance to candidacy
Dissertation Research
30 credit hours of supervised original doctoral research. Research areas (from the department's doctoral specialization courses): building performance and occupant behaviour, urban resilience planning, housing and urbanization, energy optimization in the built environment, and intelligent built-environment systems
- Dissertation Doctoral Research30 credits
Dissertation Defense
Dissertation Defense (0 credit hours). Minimum 54 credit hours total for the degree
Entry Requirements
Full transcripts, two references and, where required, a research proposal are needed.
Careers
Graduates pursue careers in architectural and engineering practice, construction and the built-environment sector, or continue to professional licensure and postgraduate study.
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
Licensed and accredited by the UAE Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA); UAEU also holds US institutional accreditation from WSCUC.
Programme Details
Award
Doctor of Philosophy
Start Date
August (Fall intake)
Typical Offer
A relevant master's degree from an accredited university with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Duration
4 years
Qualification
Doctorate
Subject Area
Architecture
Campus
Al Ain
Course Type
Doctor of Philosophy
Study Pattern
Full time
Delivery Format
In person
Tuition Fee
AED 32,400/yr
Graduate applicants apply through apply.uaeu.ac.ae with transcripts, a CV and two references, and pay the AED 200 application fee.