PhD in Design and Planning (Architecture, PhD)

Tuition fees are 12,995 CAD per year, and applications for the Sep 2027 intake close on May 1, 2027.

The PhD in Design and Planning at the University of Manitoba is for students who want to make a significant contribution to knowledge in design and planning fields. This PhD degree is offered in English and takes several years to complete. The main advantage of this program is that it allows students to drive their own investigation and research.

The curriculum for this program helps students develop skills in independently driven investigation, original research, and creative scholarship. Students will learn how to conduct research and contribute to the field of design and planning. The program also helps students develop skills in critical thinking and problem-solving.

Graduates of this program can go on to become leading researchers and scholars in the field of design and planning. They can work as Architecture Researchers, Urban Planning Specialists, or Design Consultants. They can also work in academia as Professors or Researchers, or in the government as Policy Analysts or Urban Planners.

The University of Manitoba, founded in 1877 in Winnipeg, is the oldest university in western Canada and a major public research institution. With roughly 29,000 students and about 4,000 international students, the university offers a welcoming and diverse campus experience. Its location provides access to cultural attractions, outdoor recreation and a supportive prairie community.

Academically the university offers more than 260 programs spanning faculties such as Engineering, Architecture, Health Sciences, Business and Agriculture, many of which are research active and professionally accredited. The campus hosts centers for global public health, functional foods and other applied research that connect students with real-world problems and industry partners, while student services emphasize academic advising, career planning and wellbeing.

International students benefit from extensive supports including orientation, visa guidance and targeted scholarships, along with numerous experiential learning and co-op opportunities in Winnipeg and beyond. For students seeking a research-led education with strong community engagement and practical pathways into professional fields, the University of Manitoba presents a balanced choice combining academic excellence, campus life and regional opportunity.