Each student in the Doctoral Program in Architecture will identify a major and minor area of specialization. The major is defined as that area of specialization in the Doctoral Program within which the student is expected to write his/her dissertation.

It is chosen from one of the three major areas of specialization listed below. These areas represent the research and teaching expertise of Program faculty and describe generally recognized areas of architectural research. Studies that span across areas are also encouraged. Master of Science degree students engage in intensive study of new applications and issues in architecture. Ph.D. degree students conduct substantive research that contributes to the development of new knowledge of new approaches to the theory and practice of architecture.

The courses and seminars offered within the major area of specialization may be augmented by cognate coursework in areas that complement a student's research interests. These may include not only other area course offerings within Taubman College, but also courses offered by other units/departments on campus. Focusing one's work in a specialization area is aimed at preparing the individual for a productive academic career in teaching and conducting research in architecture, or for creative work in the architectural profession.

The minor area of specialization is defined as that subject area, either within the Doctoral Program in Architecture or within another University unit, which is both complementary to and distinct from, the student's major area of specialization. Minor work is possible in one of the remaining two areas of specialization within the Program, in Urban and Regional Planning within Taubman College, or in a subject area offered by another University of Michigan department, program, or center that has been approved for Rackham graduate credit and which is deemed appropriate for the student's program of study and approved by the major professor. The cognate courses required by the Graduate School may, if approved by the Doctoral Program Advisory Committee, be used in partial fulfillment of the major or minor specialization area requirements.

Examples of minors outside the Doctoral Program in Architecture:

Aerospace Engineering
American Culture
Anthropology
Artificial Intelligence
History
History of Art
Information Technology
Mathematics
Psychology
Public Health
Urban Planning
Women's Studies