Models of Practice-Based PhD Programmes in Art and Design: The Current State of Doctoral Studies

Over the past several years, doctoral research in design has become an established part of the academic landscape. Yet despite this significant development, relatively few doctoral programs in the German-speaking world have emerged that explicitly integrate design practice or artistic practice as a central component of the research process.

This raises important questions for researchers, practitioners, and institutions alike: How can practice-based and practice-led research be further developed? What opportunities and challenges do doctoral candidates encounter when working at the intersection of academic inquiry, design practice, and artistic production? And what kinds of institutional structures are needed to support these forms of research in the future?

To address these questions and foster exchange among emerging and established researchers, the Department of Design at the Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences will host a dedicated day for prospective doctoral candidates and current PhD researchers in design and the arts on 11 June 2026.

The event aims to create a platform for dialogue, networking, and critical reflection on the current state of doctoral education in design and the arts. Participants are warmly invited to join the discussions, share experiences, and contribute to a broader conversation about the future of doctoral research in creative disciplines.

Whether you are considering a doctorate, currently pursuing one, or are simply interested in the evolving landscape of research in design and the arts, this event offers a valuable opportunity to engage with peers and experts from across the field.

The organizers — Kirsten Wagner, Edith Kollath, Sarah Fyrguth (HfG Offenbach), and Jana Sehnert — look forward to welcoming participants and fostering inspiring conversations about the future of doctoral research in design and art.

Registration is not required. All interested participants are welcome to attend.

The day will feature a diverse programme of presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities, including:

Keynote Lecture
“Knowledge Politics in the Arts” by Marie Hoop

University Presentations
Insights into different models of practice-based and practice-led doctoral research.

Networking Initiative: design:promoviert
An opportunity to connect with researchers, doctoral candidates, and institutions engaged in design research.

Panel Discussion
A conversation on the current state, challenges, and future perspectives of doctoral education in design and the arts.

Research Project Insights
Presentations by doctoral candidates showcasing ongoing research projects from the fields of design and art.

11 June 2026
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
at Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences – Department of Design
Venue: Room R401

Speakers (alphabetical order)
Anna Dill
Christine Rafflenbeul
Dr. Kathrin Gollwitzer-Oh
Dr. Marie Hoop
Dr. Martin Reinhart
Dr. Sara Hillnhütter
Dr. Simon Meienberg
Harriet von Froreich
Jana Sehnert
Philipp Cartier
Prof. Dr. Anant Patel
Sarah Fyrguth

Involved Institutions/Universities (alphabetical order)
Die Angewandte Wien
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar
design:promoviert
HfG Offenbach
HfK Bremen
HFBK Hamburg
HSBI (Hochschule Bielefeld)
KISD (Köln International School of Design)
Leuphana Universität Lüneburg
Universität Leiden