http://endlessend.up.pt/design

“The results of the program could have an important positive social and industrial impact on the Portuguese and international scene.”
(Foundation for Science and Technology course evaluation report, 2013)

We want to:
– Contribute to the development of Design Research as a scientific discipline.
– Consolidate Design Research as a multi-disciplinary interface between Knowledge, Communication, Craft, Creativity and Development.
– Legitimise and communicate Design-related practice and heritage.
– Develop bold and critical models for the decipherment and resolution of contemporary challenges.

Design Research as an emerging discipline in its own right is undergoing international recognition: there is a clear need to root and implement it as a scientific and entrepreneurial interface. The PhD program in Design focuses on long-term contributions to a socio-cultural paradigm shift: redefining territories of knowledge, accessibility, solidarity, resourcefulness and involvement. The Course subscribes to a multi-disciplinary School of Applied Design Research and Practice; a meeting point of doctoral studies, post-doctoral research, joint entrepreneurial projects and exploratory ventures, with the shared goal of social, cultural and economic regeneration.

Portugal stands as a particularly apt environment for the flourishing of Design Research as a discipline weaving social, cultural and economic factors into a stronger fabric. Its widely acknowledged industrial capacities are not always matched by equal brand recognition; its social fabric has lacked a culture of narrative and involvement; and there are ample opportunities for channelling Design Practice itself onto territories of common knowledge and, ultimately, common good. While locally and regionally engaged, the Course offers an international research environment made up of students from multiple continents, partnerships with European and American Colleges, and a wealth of international visiting lecturers and advisors.

General information

Study Plan

Involved Organic Units

Certificates

Predominant Scientific Areas