Drive new discoveries and open new fields of inquiry
Geared primarily for those pursuing a career in academic teaching and research
The PhD in Environmental Design is an advanced doctoral program designed to equip you with the skills to propose and conduct research that enhances the design, planning, and management of both natural and built environments, typically in preparation for an academic career.
Join us to explore boundary-pushing new directions in interdisciplinary research. Your journey toward becoming a thought leader in environmental design starts here!
Tackle research questions of global importance
Establish yourself as a key influencer
As a master's degree holder, you aspire to be an active researcher and educator, work in government or industry, conduct research in a design firm, or become a community activist committed to driving meaningful social change through the built environment.
- This program provides you with a structured yet flexible research journey, allowing you to explore big topics in architecture, planning, or landscape architecture.
- Develop a strong thesis proposal, complete field of study exams, and perform in-depth research.
- Benefit from the support of faculty researchers at Canada's most community-embedded design school.
- Get ready for a fulfilling academic career where you can make meaningful contributions to the field and society at large.
Advanced opportunities for specialized career paths
Develop skills for roles in academia, research, and high-level professional careers
- Aspire to become a university professor or a lead researcher?
- Seeking greater responsibilities within government, private consulting, R&D firms, and non-profits?
A PhD in Environmental Design offers you significant value by providing advanced research opportunities, specialized career paths, and the development of essential skills for roles in academia, research, and leadership. This degree is crucial if you aspire to become a university professor or a lead researcher, often resulting in increased responsibilities and promotions within government agencies, firms, or industry. You will be equipped to address complex environmental challenges through innovative strategic thinking and advanced technical expertise.
Advance transformative knowledge
Fostering collaboration and impact in education, government, and industry
Cutting-Edge Resources
You’ll have access to state-of-the-art facilities, technology, and research tools to enhance your learning experience and research capabilities.
Strong Industry Connections
Partnerships with design firms, government agencies, and non-profit organizations may facilitate internships, networking, and job placement opportunities for graduates.
As an environmental designer, you will be an optimist, creating a positive future through your work.”
Barry Wylant
Graduate Program Director
Three easy steps to start your journey
Take the next step in your career
Explore the PhD Program
- Research-Centric Approach: Engage in cutting-edge research that integrates innovative technologies, design methods, and problem-solving strategies to address real-world challenges.
- Interdisciplinary Focus: Explore the intersections of environmental design with cultural and built environments, equipping you to tackle complex issues in diverse settings.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from leading scholars and practitioners who are shaping the future of environmental design and planning.
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside fellow doctoral candidates and faculty to foster a rich academic community focused on impactful research.
- Career Opportunities: Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and private industry
Program Structure
The PhD program consists of required coursework tailored to the individual's need, followed by a thesis proposal, candidacy exams, thesis research and writing, and, ultimately, an oral examination of the doctoral thesis. The degree is intended for those who are capable of carrying out original research under the guidance of a suitable faculty member and supervisory committee. The PhD typically takes four years to complete. Students must maintain full-time registration status throughout the program.
Supervision
A supervisor drawn from regular full-time faculty cohort in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape
Course Work
The PhD in Environmental Design is a thesis-based program designed for students who wish to pursue a research or scholarly career. Courses are generally completed in the first year of the program.
- APLA 670 Design Research Methods
- APLA 672 Design Research Writing
- APLA 674 Design Innovation
- Minimum 3 units of elective credit, course(s) selected in consultation with the supervisor
Candidacy and Thesis Details:
- Thesis proposal approved by the Supervisory Committee
- Written Field of Study Examination
- Oral Field of Study Examination
- Submission of a thesis document describing the research
- Satisfactory completion of the Thesis Oral Examination
Stay Connected
Stay informed with program-specific updates, including upcoming events and info sessions, career pathways, curriculum highlights, and the latest news about SAPL.
Message from the Graduate Program Director
As you navigate the complexities of our modern world, you stand at the forefront of addressing critical challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and urbanization through environmental design.
Prof. Barry Wylant, Graduate Program Director
PhD Research
Learn more about the research our PhD students engage in.
Come design the future with us.
And change the world from the heart of the city.
In January 2026, we moved to a vibrant downtown location to enhance the educational journeys of our students and researchers while fostering collaboration with our professional community, the City of Calgary, and beyond.