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Simulation and Design

Ph.D.

Home » All Programs » Simulation and Design
By optimizing designs in the virtual realm, architects and designers can ensure that projects are aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust.

» Program Overview

There has been a growing reliance on the use of simulation and design in all areas of science and technology thanks to the powerful computational tools developed in recent years and the synergies evolving among disciplines, specifically between engineering, health sciences, business, and all areas of science and technology.

LTU, with its Colleges of Architecture and Design, Arts and Sciences, Business and Information Technology, Engineering, and Health Sciences and the varied expertise of its highly qualified faculty, is uniquely positioned to work with Ph.D. students to pioneer advancements in simulation and simulation-driven design and foster interdisciplinary research that drives innovation and creates transformative solutions to global challenges.

This innovative Ph.D. program in Simulation and Design provides access to Ph.D.-level research in all areas of study within our university that fall under the umbrella of simulation and design. Introducing the Ph.D. in Simulation and Design aligns directly with LTU’s single-minded view toward academic reputation, technology, innovation, and interdisciplinary goals.

Architecture and Design are seeing significant benefits from simulation and design technologies especially as they have been augmented with Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and other simulation tools provide architects and designers with the ability to create and analyze virtual representations of objects, experiences, spaces, and environments. These tools allow for the assessment of structural integrity, energy efficiency, and environmental impact before construction begins. Simulation supports the design of sustainable buildings and smart cities, helping to address challenges related to climate change, resource management, and urbanization. By visualizing and optimizing designs in the virtual realm, designers can ensure that projects are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally robust.

» Potential Research Areas

Digital Simulation
  • Computational modeling; algorithm development; gaming
  • Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in architectural visualization
  • Data-driven design simulations as supported through AI
  • Digital twins
Analog Simulation
  • Physical modeling and prototyping
  • Environmental and material testing
  • Hybrid simulation methods combining digital and physical approaches

Contact

Philip Plowright

pplowrigh@ltu.edu
248.204.2870

» Why LTU?

The College of Architecture and Design is focused on design, immersed in technology, and grounded in practice. Candidates will work with leading faculty who investigate the productive overlap between the tools and technologies that are reshaping professional practice. Together with Lawrence Technological University’s motto, “theory and practice,” candidates will benefit from cross-campus collaborations and connections with industry professionals. The educational experience is influenced by the legacy of manufacturing and making in Detroit along with recent resurgence and influx of mobility and technology startups that are capitalizing on aspects of simulation and design.

modelling-simulation-coad

» Admission Requirements

Minimum requirements for admission to the program:

  • Submit a research statement describing the area(s) within the broad field of simulation and design specific to this College that interests you. Be as detailed as possible how your interest fits within the areas of research listed above for this College.
  • Hold a BS or MS degree in a technical or appropriately related field from an accredited program or international equivalent. An applicant with a BS degree may require more preparatory course prior to sitting for the Qualifying Examination than an applicant with an MS degree.
  • Have excellent academic credentials with a minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Submit a resume that validates an aptitude for Ph.D.-level research (e.g., through publications, portfolios, and/or on-site or electronically mediated interviews).
  • Provide at least three letters of recommendation attesting to your aptitude, character, and work ethic.
  • Submit a completed application packet to Graduate Admissions by the appropriate deadline.
  • Meet University requirements for the demonstration of English proficiency. For international students, the following apply: IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 79, Duolingo: 105.

» Document Viewer

Use Your Cell Phone as a Document Camera in Zoom

  • What you will need to have and do
  • Download the mobile Zoom app (either App Store or Google Play)
  • Have your phone plugged in
  • Set up video stand phone holder

From Computer

Log in and start your Zoom session with participants

From Phone

  • Start the Zoom session on your phone app (suggest setting your phone to “Do not disturb” since your phone screen will be seen in Zoom)
  • Type in the Meeting ID and Join
  • Do not use phone audio option to avoid feedback
  • Select “share content” and “screen” to share your cell phone’s screen in your Zoom session
  • Select “start broadcast” from Zoom app. The home screen of your cell phone is now being shared with your participants.

To use your cell phone as a makeshift document camera

  • Open (swipe to switch apps) and select the camera app on your phone
  • Start in photo mode and aim the camera at whatever materials you would like to share
  • This is where you will have to position what you want to share to get the best view – but you will see ‘how you are doing’ in the main Zoom session.