The Dissertation in Architectural & Interdisciplinary Studies enables you to undertake an independent research project into an architectural subject that you have identified and wish to explore in greater depth. The emphasis in this module is on conducting original research and producing investigative indepth written studies, supported by appropriate visual documentation. In addition, there will be a focus on writing as an iterative process.

This research module will allow students to work on an interdisciplinary architectural subject of their own choosing, undertaking primary research, conducting peer reviews, and writing a book chapter. Students will work collaboratively on the production of a website or zine for immediate dissemination in June, and a longer-term edited book with UCL Press – an open-access, free to download book press – with an aim to publish after five years of student research (approximately 2023). While not all chapters will make it into the peer-reviewed book, all student work will feature in the website or zine. The overall theme of the edited book will give students sufficient flexibility in choosing the chapter they wish to write.

The first term is devoted to the following: honing the research methods skills, learned in Research I and Research II, needed to conduct an advanced architectural project; developing, researching, and reading for one’s own project; learning about edited book production; and collaborating in and beyond team meetings to advance both individual and groupwork components. The second term consists of a series of individual written submissions, tutorials with the teaching team and student peer reviewers, and group meetings to advance the collaborative final outputs.

The aims of Research III are: to enable you to intensively explore an architectural subject of your choice which fits under an overall theme, through conducting original research; to encourage you to think critically about the production, use and experience of architecture; and finally, to develop your skills in reading, researching, and writing for an audience.

On completion of the module you should have developed the ability to: undertake literature searches; record information systematically; critically analyse architectural data and evidence; develop an original thesis; carry out an investigative study; work collaboratively and creatively with peers, and present to audiences architectural ideas supported by rigorous argument and appropriate evidence.