Degree Structure
College
Engineering
Department
Architectural Engineering
Level
Graduate Phd
Study System
Courses and Theses
Total Credit Hours
54 Cr. Hrs.
Duration
3 Years
Intake
Fall Only
Language
English
Study Mode
Full Time and Part Time
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Important Dates
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Degree Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy in Science and Technology for Heritage Conservation and Management (STHCM) at the University of Sharjah is the first of its kind in the UAE and the Arab world. This interdisciplinary program is designed to address the growing challenges in heritage conservation, including climate change, urbanization, and sustainable management of cultural resources.
The program integrates cutting-edge scientific methodologies and technological advancements to develop innovative solutions for heritage preservation. By fostering expertise across multiple disciplines (architecture, archaeology, engineering, environmental sciences, and digital technologies), the program prepares scholars to become global leaders in heritage conservation and management.
The STHCM PhD complements the University’s existing Master program in Conservation Management of Cultural Heritage and aligns with the UAE’s vision for cultural sustainability and innovation.
What You Will Learn
Students enrolled in the STHCM Ph.D. program will:
• Develop a deep understanding of heritage conservation theories, methodologies, and best practices.
• Gain expertise in advanced scientific techniques for analyzing, documenting, and preserving cultural heritage assets.
• Explore the applications of emerging technologies such as GIS, remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and digital twin modeling in heritage conservation.
• Address pressing challenges in sustainability, climate adaptation, and risk management for historical and cultural sites.
• Engage in interdisciplinary research combining heritage sciences, engineering, and cultural management.
• Contribute to policy development and strategic planning for national and international heritage preservation initiatives.
• Work with local and global heritage institutions through collaborations and research projects.
This program equips graduates with the scientific and technological knowledge needed to shape the future of heritage conservation, ensuring the protection and enhancement of cultural and historical assets for future generations.
University Requirements
College Requirements
Degree Requirements
Course Description
Compulsory Requirements
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0404710 |
Advanced Research Methods in Cultural Heritage |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course builds upon foundational research methods and explores advanced approaches and techniques specific to cultural heritage research. Students will delve into advanced data collection, analysis, and synthesis methods to address complex research questions and challenges in the field. Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical considerations, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Through practical exercises and project work, students will develop expertise in conducting rigorous research and generating innovative solutions for heritage conservation and management. |
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0404720 |
Principles of Heritage and Conservation |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course introduces the core principles and fundamental theories underlying the conservation planning and practice for cultural heritage. The course explores the development of international conservation philosophy, ethics, principles, and policy through an overview of the key international documents. Contemporary conservation practice is critically explored through international, regional, and local case studies. |
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0404770 |
Structural Properties and Deterioration of Materials |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course provides in-depth understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of a wide range of materials used in heritage structures, e.g., earth-based materials, wood and their products, concrete, metals, and glass. It identifies the main causes of defects in these materials and investigates the influences of various factors, e.g., physical and/or environmental conditions, on the durability properties of cultural heritage materials. The course also discusses preventive and remedial strategies for some of the main materials used in heritage structures. |
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0404760 |
AI-Empowered Digital Tools for Management of Cultural Heritage |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course explores Computational tools and AI techniques for the documentation and management of cultural heritage sites and museum collections. The course focuses on the impacts of digital technologies and AI on professional practice and services related to 3D reconstruction, laser scanning, additive manufacturing (AM), unmanned aerial vehicle photography, augmented reality, and computer rendering in multiple dimensions, where AI-Empowered Digital Tools and digital fabrication objectives could become a source of inspiration and a driving force in the context of conservation, education, research, risk assessment, planning, and design. |
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0405726 |
Statistics and Data Analysis |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: Besides offering a comprehensive review of fundamental probability and statistics, this course delves into more advanced topics, including inferential statistics (covering both parametric and nonparametric methods), regression and correlation analysis, analysis of variance, and cluster analysis methods. As part of the course, students will utilize specialized software packages to analyze data obtained from case studies that are relevant to technology for heritage conservation and management or closely related fields. |
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0404791 |
PhD Seminar |
0 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: The PhD Seminar course requires students to attend seminars conducted by faculty members, visiting scholars, and fellow graduate students. Students are expected to submit reports on the seminars they attend and deliver a seminar presentation on a contemporary research topic. |
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0404792 |
PhD Thesis Proposal |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
0477790 Qualifying Exam |
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Description: In the PhD Thesis Proposal course, students are required to submit a research proposal topic under the guidance of a faculty member. The proposal should include a comprehensive literature survey of related work pertaining to the proposed research topic. It should also present the methodology to be employed and expected results. The proposal must receive approval from the supervisor and be defended before an examination committee. Recommendations provided by the committee should be considered during the implementation phase of the thesis. |
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0404799 |
PhD Thesis |
24 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
0404791 PhD Seminar 0404792 PhD Thesis Proposal |
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Description: In the PhD Thesis course focuses on advanced research in the application of science and technology to the field of heritage conservation. Under the guidance of a faculty member, students undertake independent research and develop a thesis that contributes to the knowledge and practice of heritage conservation. The course emphasizes the comprehensive understanding of principles, techniques, and challenges in heritage conservation, and their application to both research and practical implementation. Through a thorough literature review, methodology development, and the defense of their research proposal, students gain the necessary skills to make significant contributions to the field of heritage conservation using cutting-edge science and technology approaches. |
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Elective Courses
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1430780 |
Modern Characterization and Analysis Methods in Conservation of Heritage Materials |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course provides an in-depth exploration of the modern characterization and analysis methods used in the conservation of heritage materials. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the scientific techniques employed to study and preserve cultural artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, archaeological objects, and architectural elements. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory demonstrations, and hands-on exercises, students will learn about various analytical techniques, their applications, and interpretation of results. |
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0404761 |
Mixed Reality Applications for Museums and Cultural Heritage |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course introduces students to the principles and methods of using Mixed Reality technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), in interpreting and disseminating Cultural Heritage knowledge. The course explores ethical considerations, cultural implications, and the use of Mixed Reality to enhance cultural learning, visitor experience, and engagement. Through practical training, students will develop skills in designing and developing compelling Mixed Reality experiences for museums and heritage sites. Case studies of successful Mixed Reality applications in Cultural Heritage will also be discussed. |
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0401740 |
Digital Photogrammetry in Heritage Studies |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course introduces students to various elements of photogrammetry. It is intended to provide students with the theory of photography, photographic materials, photogrammetric optics, and their physical properties for imaging systems. The course includes Photogrammetric sensing systems; mathematical concepts of photogrammetry; resection, intersection, and triangulation; Digital image processing; Digital elevation models, and Orthophoto generation. This course includes theories, methods, and applications to help students understand the important theoretical concepts in photogrammetry and gain practical experience in applying various methods and algorithms using various photogrammetric software. |
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0401741 |
GIS and Remote Sensing Applications in Heritage Studies |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course emphasizes investigating and mapping various archeological features in a geospatial context. It introduces students to the concepts and fundamentals of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing concerning a diverse range of applications in archeology. Topics covered include GIS and remote sensing components, data types, and formats, geographic referencing frameworks, data capture techniques, and vector and raster spatial analysis methods. The course includes a lab for hands-on training with GIS software. |
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1430781 |
Non-invasive Analysis of Cultural Heritage Environments |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course aims to provide the students with the necessary skill of conducting Non-Destructive Tests (NDT) and Minor Destructive Tests (MDT) for Cultural Heritage. Through this course, the students will gain a broad understanding of how cutting-edge technologies and non-destructive methods can reveal the past without damaging irreplaceable cultural materials and environments. Topics will include Principles and methods of non-destructive testing, on-site non-invasive tools like Ultra Sonic Pulse Velocity, rebound hammer, Borescope, Rebar detector, Moisture meter, Portable XRD and XRF, drones, digital modeling, Lidar and 3D scanning, remote sensing, and photogrammetry, and augmented reality technologies in heritage preservation and interpretation. |
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0404750 |
Adaptive Reuse and Environmental Management of Heritage Buildings |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course introduces the fundamentals of adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, with a focus on exploring the methods and complexities relating to conservation interventions and retrofit technologies. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of understanding and managing environmental conditions such as thermal comfort, moisture content, indoor air quality, and HVAC systems in heritage buildings. The course integrates cutting-edge conservation methods with a strong focus on sustainability and resilience. Students will obtain knowledge for maximizing user comfort, while developing strategies for maintaining the longevity of heritage buildings in the face of changing environmental conditions. |
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0401771 |
Seismic Behavior and Assessment of Heritage Sites |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course offers a comprehensive understanding of seismic behavior and assessment techniques for heritage sites. Students will learn relevant codes, guidelines, and best practices for seismic analysis and retrofitting in heritage contexts while considering the preservation of cultural heritage and structural safety. Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises, students will gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills in assessing damage causes and implementing sensitive mitigation measures. |
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0404721 |
Deterioration and Conservation of Heritage Buildings and Museum Collections |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course analyzes all types of deterioration features museum pieces and historic buildings are Facing. the way they are treated, pieces. The aim of the course is to give students a fundamental understanding and practical training on conservation of inorganic (Metal, Stone, Ceramics, Terracotta and Glass) and organic (Textiles, Wood, Leather, Ivory and Bone) objects. The causes of deterioration of these artefacts and methods of stabilizing deterioration are included, together with the scientific investigation and materials and methods to carry out conservation treatments. The conservation of excavated archaeological materials, the burial and waterlogged conditions and risk of exposure to a new environment after excavations are also included in the course including all measures required to control the surrounding environment. Part of this course is presented in the laboratory, where students learn how to perform first aid and interventions to clean, restore and correct parts. |
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0401742 |
Geotechnical Aspects of Heritage Conservation and Management |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
Graduate Standing |
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Description: |
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0404780 |
Special Topics in Heritage Conservation and Management |
3 CH |
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Prerequisite: |
-- |
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Description: This course explores advanced and emerging topics in heritage conservation and management. The course may be offered to suit the academic need of the student based on the supervisor recommendation and the program coordinator approval. |
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Career Path
How will you make an impact?
Graduates of the PhD in Science and Technology for Heritage Conservation and Management will be well-equipped for leadership roles in heritage conservation, cultural management, and advanced research. The program provides expertise in scientific analysis, emerging technologies, and sustainable preservation, preparing graduates for impactful careers in various sectors, including:
• Academic & Research Institutions – Conduct advanced research, teach at universities, and contribute to the development of new methodologies in heritage conservation.
• Governmental & Heritage Organizations – Work with ministries, cultural heritage authorities, and municipalities to develop policies, regulations, and strategies for heritage preservation.
• International Organizations – Join UNESCO, ICCROM, ICOMOS, and other global institutions dedicated to heritage conservation and sustainable cultural management.
• Museums & Cultural Institutions – Oversee heritage collections, conservation laboratories, and exhibition planning with a scientific and technological approach.
• Digital Heritage & Technology Companies – Develop and implement GIS, AI, remote sensing, and digital twin applications for heritage documentation and restoration.
• Architectural & Engineering Firms – Specialize in heritage site restoration, adaptive reuse, and conservation-based urban planning.
• NGOs & Cultural Foundations – Lead initiatives related to heritage sustainability, community engagement, and cultural resource management.
• Entrepreneurship & Consulting – Establish specialized firms offering services in heritage conservation, digital documentation, and risk assessment for historical sites.
This program ensures that graduates contribute meaningfully to the preservation and sustainable management of cultural heritage, both regionally and globally.
