Global perspectives on structured research training in doctorates of design – what do we value?

The development of doctorates of design has generated debate about the characteristics of appropriate doctoral curriculum, including structured research training. While such training has long formed part of the North American doctorate it has more recently appeared as a component of European and Australian programs. Despite its significance, the global spread of structured coursework in doctorates of design and faculty and student attitudes to this remain unexamined. This study examined the significance of research training in doctorates of design (n = 153) and attitudes to such training (n = 102) among faculty and students. This study concludes with observations about the nature and growing significance of research training in doctoral design and the need for further detailed research of the issue.