Joint PhD Curriculum in Architecture Tsinghua – PoliTO

Transnational Architectural Models in a Globalized World

Within the PhD Course DASP (Architecture. History and Project), Politecnico di Torino opens two scholarships every year to join the special program with Tsinghua University.

Shougang Visitor Center for Beijing Olympics 2022. Designed by Politecnico di Torino

The collaboration between Politecnico di Torino and Tsinghua University – as the leading Chinese University, based in Beijing – started in 2006. For more than 15 years, it has evolved into consolidated Research and Educational Academic Joint Programs as well as many projects in the fields of Architecture, Urban Design, and Industrial Regeneration.

They have become an important infrastructure (China Centre) fostering research and knowledge exchange within the Chinese, Italian and international communities.

Politecnico di Torino and Tsinghua University created a specific PhD curriculum named “Transnational Architectural Models in a Globalized World” within the framework of the Doctoral Program in Architecture. History and Project at Politecnico di Torino and the Doctoral Programs in Architecture, Urban and Rural Planning, and Landscape Architecture at Tsinghua University.


At Politecnico di Torino, we look for motivated candidates from all over the world, to take part in this special program! Two 3-years scholarships are available every Academic Year.

Check http://dottorato.polito.it/en/scholarships for further info to apply or write to china.center@polito.it for information.


The joint PhD Curriculum is focused on the movement of architectural and urban models, design practices, and construction techniques in the globalized world, with a priority (yet not exclusive) focus on the relations between China and the West.

The activity of the PhD candidates enrolled will consist of a research exchange that requires 18 months of mobility at Tsinghua University, Beijing. The candidates have to complete specific training courses during this period, both at Politecnico di Torino and Tsinghua University. The final output will be drafting a PhD thesis, under the joint supervision of professors from both Tsinghua University and Politecnico di Torino. The PhD diploma of both Universities will be awarded upon completion of the planned activities at both institutions.


“Since we live in a society where cultural understanding is one of the essential skills, attending this joint program helps students to interpret the world and navigate their lives.”

Huang Yetong, PhD candidate of Polito-Tsinghua Joint PhD Curriculum


“This program is like making wine. You have many grapes and then squeeze them and get the Juice. The juice is the best part, and it symbolizes the best of both universities.”

Giorgia Cestaro, PhD candidate of Polito-Tsinghua Joint PhD Curriculum