Overview

A thesis is a substantial research project that contributes original knowledge to your field of study and is the critical component of a PhD. It reflects specialised, original, advanced knowledge, understanding, and practice at the frontiers of the subject or professional area. It is typically the final requirement of the programme. In interior architecture, design, design management, fashion and fashion management, a substantial body of investigative visual output in an appropriate medium, supported by written evidence, which articulates and identifies the innovative nature of the research work undertaken, may be substituted for a purely written thesis. In both circumstances, the written thesis is a standalone document that fully communicates the rigorous processes undertaken, the significance and originality of the contribution. It is a permanent record of all these elements.

Key milestones during a PhD

PhD Design students from Heriot-Watt University Dubai typically experience several important milestones, including:

Completing coursework (if required)
Submitting a thesis proposal (application process)
Defending a thesis proposal – at key milestone points throughout the PhD journey
Conducting data collection
Writing and producing the thesis
Defending the thesis before a panel

Accreditation

This programme is accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the UAE.

Programme Structure

Research Topics for PhD supervision

biophilic design
co-creation
circular economy for sustainability
communication design
design management and leadership
design-led entrepreneurship
design process and methods
design innovation management - process and methods.
fashion and fashion management,
future mobility
heritage and culture
interior architecture
Interior design
product and service design
interactive design
user-centred design
sustainability

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months
Part-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-05-04 00:00:00

Apply anytime.
Starting 2026-09-08 00:00:00

Apply anytime.
Starting 2027-01-12 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Disciplines

Design Sustainable Development Interior Design View 3 other PhDs in Sustainable Development in United Arab Emirates

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Candidates typically need a relevant undergraduate degree and a master’s degree. The subject and academic qualifications required vary depending on the doctoral inquiry.
Interested applicants should complete the online application form, making clear on the form that you are applying to study at the Dubai Campus.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Heriot-Watt University Dubai and/or in United Arab Emirates, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

60713 AED / year

≈ 60713 AED / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

60713 AED / year

≈ 60713 AED / year

Living costs

Dubai

United Arab Emirates

5300 - 9200 AED / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.