DOCTORAL SCHOOL

Faculty of Engineering and Architecture

The third-cycle study program in “Sustainable Architecture and Construction and the Improvement of Environmental Standards”, offered by the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, provides doctoral candidates with the opportunity to conduct their research activities with the support of international colleagues from the Italian universities Politecnico di Torino and Politecnico di Bari.

Program Objectives

The doctoral program aims to deepen theoretical knowledge and develop research competencies in the field of Architecture and Civil Engineering. Doctoral studies are based on independent scientific research and academic creative activity, providing the conditions for the preparation of a doctoral thesis (dissertation) required for the award of the Doctoral Degree (PhD). Through this program, doctoral candidates are trained to conduct advanced scientific research, propose innovative solutions, and contribute to the development of sustainable architecture and civil engineering at both national and international levels. The program integrates the theoretical, experimental, and applied aspects of architecture and civil engineering, with a focus on developing sustainable methods and systems oriented toward addressing real-world challenges.

International Cooperation and Scientific Supervision

An important component of the program is its international dimension. The program is developed in cooperation with partner universities and research centers in Europe, including European higher education institutions. These collaborations create opportunities for co-supervision of doctoral research, the development of joint research projects, and the awarding of double or joint degrees. Doctoral candidates have the opportunity to conduct part of their research activities at partner international institutions, becoming integrated into advanced research laboratories and academic networks. Academic supervisors and international co-supervisors are actively involved in providing scientific guidance to doctoral candidates and supporting them in conducting research with high national and international impact.

Application Fields

1. Sustainable Architecture and Construction
3. Intelligent Transportation Systems
2.  Advanced Materials and Structures
4. Advanced Earthquake Engineering

Research Areas

➤ PhD in “Sustainable Architecture and Construction and the Improvement of Environmental Standards”

The third-cycle study program in Sustainable Architecture and Construction is offered by the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at University Metropolitan Tirana (UMT) and aims to educate researchers and experts capable of contributing to scientific, technological, and innovative development in the field of sustainable architecture and construction.

➤ Doctoral School in Sustainable Architecture and Construction

The Faculty of Engineering and Architecture (FIA) at University Metropolitan Tirana (UMT) has been licensed by the Ministry of Education and Sports, since August 2026, to offer a doctoral program in the field of Sustainable Architecture and Construction. The program has been developed based on the academic and scientific expertise of UMT staff, as well as through cooperation with Albanian, regional, and European institutions of higher education and scientific research.

The Doctoral School aims to create a modern and international research environment focused on the development of high standards in design, innovation, and knowledge transfer across various sectors of the economy and society. The program supports the advancement of cutting-edge scientific research and the integration of doctoral candidates into international academic and professional networks.

Program and Academic Structure

The PhD Programme in “Sustainable Architecture and Construction and the Improvement of Environmental Standards” has been designed as an advanced research-oriented programme aimed at preparing high-level researchers and experts in the most advanced fields of architecture, construction, and sustainable systems. The programme is open to candidates with outstanding academic achievements and strong research potential who have completed their university studies in fields related to construction, architecture, and urban planning.

The Doctoral School seeks to attract highly distinguished students graduating not only from Metropolitan University of Tirana, but also from leading Albanian universities and prestigious international higher education institutions. The selection of candidates is based on academic excellence, achievements during Bachelor’s and Master’s studies, analytical skills, and motivation to engage in advanced scientific research.

Doctoral studies are organised around individual research plans and are conducted within an academic environment that promotes scientific autonomy, critical thinking, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Doctoral candidates are actively engaged in scientific seminars, academic publications, research projects, and international mobility activities, thereby gradually becoming integrated into the international research community in the fields of architecture and sustainable construction.

Application Criteria

Applicants must have completed higher education in the relevant field and hold a second-cycle degree, an integrated second-cycle degree, or a degree under the former “DIND” system.

A grade point average above 8 in both first- and second-cycle studies, with exceptions possible for special cases assessed by the relevant committees for awarding the academic degree “Doctor.”

Proof of proficiency in at least the English language at B2 level, in accordance with the applicable legislation.

Recommendations from individuals holding an academic title who are familiar with the candidate’s academic and professional abilities.

Demonstration and adherence to the highest scientific and ethical standards throughout the entire research period and beyond.

Application dossier

Applicants submit to the academic secretariat a file containing the following documents. All copies must be notarized where required.

  1. Full CV of the candidate
  2. Notarized copies of diplomas and transcripts (first, second, or integrated cycle). Foreign diplomas must be accompanied by recognition/validation from the Ministry of Education (MAS)
  3. Copy of ID card / passport
  4. Two (2) passport-size photographs
  5. Two recommendation letters from academic staff holding the title “Associate Professor” or “Professor”
  6. Proof of foreign language proficiency (notarized copy)
  7. Evidence of qualifications, trainings, scientific publications, or conference participation
  8. Employment certificate
  9. Self-declaration of compliance with scientific and ethical standards

APPLICATION

Submit your application

Applications must be submitted by email to the official address of the Doctoral School.

Response within 10 working days