The Design Research Thesis sequence includes three courses: ARC 601/602 Thesis Studio I/II, and ARC 617 Readings in Architectural Theory. These courses must be taken in the Department of Architecture at Hampton University. No transfer credits will be considered.

In the 2nd semester of the Thesis Studio, students will select a thesis advisor in consultation with the studio instructor. The studio instructor(s) and the student's thesis advisor will provide guidance through the completion of the thesis. The studio instructor(s) in consultation with the thesis advisor will decide if the work is satisfactory for passing. The thesis studio(s) instructor, based on the criteria established in the course syllabus, will determine the final letter grade.

The Department's entire faculty will review all thesis work at midterms, and at the end of the Thesis Studio's Fall and Spring semesters. After the final thesis review in the Spring semester, the faculty will meet to select the work most deserving to receive the "Best Thesis" award.