Application of fundamental, theoretical, methodological, scientific-professional and professional-applied knowledge, methods and the latest theoretical knowledge in the field of architecture and related disciplines in defining the specific research plan and contents of the doctoral dissertation.

Training students to individually connect the contents from the courses at Doctoral studies, apply previously acquired and new knowledge, in order to conceptualize and conduct their own research work. Through individual work with literature, students expand knowledge and become able to use it creatively when conceptualizing a plan and structure of the research of the dissertation. Students are trained to produce and present a synopsis of the future doctoral dissertation.

It is formulated individually in accordance with the needs of further work. The student studies scientific literature, works on the creation of the research problem framework, defines hypothesis and methodology. The student conducts consultation with a mentor /advisor and with other teachers in PhD course. Theoretical basis present a classification examinations. The student works on the theoretical basis of the dissertation. The student prepares for the qualification examination.

The student, in cooperation with the advisor/mentor, works on the development of the theoretical foundations of the doctoral dissertation: content, structure, methodology and literature. The theoretical bases are taken as an examination consisting of two parts: the production of a written study - the synopsis of the doctoral dissertation submitted to the Commission; oral presentation and defense of work before the Commission. During the elaboration of the written research study, the student conducts consultations with the advisor / mentor, and, if necessary, with other teachers dealing with issues related to the topic of work itself. During the course of the work, the advisor can give additional instructions to the student, refer to certain literature, and further guide student in order to produce quality work. If the examination is passed, the student qualifies for continuation of PhD programme.