

B-ARCH in General at B.M.S. School of Architecture


Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is General at B.M.S. School of Architecture Bengaluru?
This Bachelor of Architecture program at BMS College of Architecture, Design & Planning focuses on developing well-rounded architectural professionals grounded in design thinking, technical expertise, and socio-environmental responsibility. Rooted in the Council of Architecture (COA) 2020 regulations and Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) guidelines, it addresses the evolving needs of India''''s rapidly urbanizing landscape, emphasizing sustainable practices and culturally sensitive design solutions. The curriculum integrates traditional architectural principles with contemporary advancements and digital tools.
Who Should Apply?
This comprehensive program is ideal for creative and analytical 10+2 graduates with a strong aptitude for mathematics, physics, and visual arts, who aspire to shape the built environment. It attracts individuals passionate about design, problem-solving, and contributing to urban development in India. Aspiring architects seeking a robust foundation for diverse career paths, from urban planning to conservation and sustainable design, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling careers as licensed architects, urban planners, interior designers, landscape architects, or conservation specialists within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 10-20+ LPA for senior roles. The program equips students with the necessary skills for entrepreneurial ventures, leadership positions in architectural firms, and postgraduate studies in specialized fields, aligning with national infrastructure growth.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Design & Graphics- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to hands-on drawing, sketching, and model-making exercises to build a strong foundation in visual communication and spatial understanding. Regularly practice architectural graphics techniques like orthographic and perspective drawing.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, drafting tables, model-making kits, AutoCAD (basic)
Career Connection
Essential for translating design ideas into tangible forms, crucial for professional presentations and accurate construction documentation in any architectural role.
Immerse in Architectural History & Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbook learning, explore architectural precedents through virtual tours, documentaries, and case studies of Indian and global structures. Understand the socio-cultural context behind different architectural styles.
Tools & Resources
Google Arts & Culture, Coursera/edX courses on architectural history, local architectural heritage walks
Career Connection
Provides a critical lens for informed design decisions, understanding evolution of design, valuable for conservation and urban design careers.
Cultivate Basic Material & Construction Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in workshop sessions to understand properties of basic building materials like brick, stone, timber. Visit local construction sites to observe how materials are assembled and basic construction techniques are applied.
Tools & Resources
Construction site visits (with permission), material samples, online construction tutorials
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for practical architectural application, ensuring designs are buildable and sustainable, critical for site supervision and project management roles.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Strong Architectural Design Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on understanding design briefs, site analysis, and programming for various building types (residential, small public). Actively seek feedback from faculty and peers, and iteratively refine design concepts.
Tools & Resources
SketchUp, Revit (introductory), Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator for rendering, design case studies
Career Connection
Direct application to core architectural practice, preparing students for junior architect roles and contributing to design teams in firms.
Gain Practical Exposure to Building Sciences- (Semester 3-5)
Apply theoretical knowledge from subjects like climatology, structures, and building services to studio projects. Explore sustainable design solutions and integrate passive strategies from early design stages.
Tools & Resources
Energy simulation software (basic), structural analysis tools (basic), green building guidelines (e.g., IGBC, GRIHA)
Career Connection
Equips students to design efficient and environmentally responsible buildings, a highly sought-after skill in contemporary Indian architecture.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Exploration- (Semester 3-5)
Participate in college-level design competitions, workshops, or academic clubs that foster collaboration with other disciplines (e.g., civil engineering, urban planning). This broadens perspective and problem-solving approaches.
Tools & Resources
Professional bodies (e.g., IIA student chapter), design thinking workshops, inter-departmental projects
Career Connection
Develops teamwork and holistic understanding, essential for large-scale projects involving multiple consultants and stakeholders in the Indian construction sector.
Advanced Stage
Master Advanced Design & Software Proficiency- (Semester 6-8)
Tackle complex architectural problems like urban design, mixed-use developments, and heritage conservation. Become proficient in advanced CAD, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and rendering software for professional-level documentation and visualization.
Tools & Resources
Autodesk Revit, Rhino + Grasshopper (parametric design), V-Ray/Lumion for rendering, advanced AutoCAD
Career Connection
Directly enhances employability in top architectural firms in India, enabling students to handle intricate projects and leverage cutting-edge technology.
Prepare for Professional Practice & Management- (Semester 6-8)
Deeply understand building bye-laws, professional ethics, contracts, and project management principles. Attend guest lectures by practicing architects and engage in mock interviews.
Tools & Resources
National Building Code (NBC), COA regulations, project management software (e.g., MS Project), interview preparation guides
Career Connection
Essential for smooth transition into the professional world, understanding legal and business aspects of architecture, and preparing for the Architect''''s Registration Exam in India.
Undertake Research & Thesis Development- (Semester 7-10)
Begin identifying potential thesis topics, conduct thorough literature reviews, and develop a robust research methodology. Engage with faculty mentors to refine your research question and approach, culminating in the final architectural thesis.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), research paper writing guides, statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Fosters critical thinking and independent problem-solving, highly valued in advanced architectural roles, research, and academia, and is the capstone for professional qualification.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 scheme of examination with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM) with at least 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/OBC) OR Passed 10+3 Diploma Examination with Mathematics as a compulsory subject with at least 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/OBC). Must have qualified NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) conducted by CoA.
Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years
Credits: 260 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR11T1.1 | History of Architecture - I | Theory | 3 | Introduction to History, Prehistoric Architecture, Mesopotamian Civilizations, Egyptian Architecture, Indus Valley Civilization |
| AR11T1.2 | Building Materials & Construction - I | Theory | 3 | Introduction to Building Materials, Natural Materials (Stone, Brick), Bonding in Brickwork, Stone Masonry, Arches |
| AR11L1.1 | Architectural Graphics - I | Studio | 4 | Introduction to Graphics, Drafting Tools & Techniques, Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Lettering & Presentation |
| AR11T1.4 | Art and Architecture Appreciation | Theory | 2 | Elements of Art & Design, Principles of Design, Visual Perception, Art Movements, Architectural Styles |
| AR11S1.1 | Basic Design & Visual Arts - I | Studio | 6 | Elements of Design (Point, Line, Plane, Volume), Principles of Design (Balance, Rhythm, Contrast), Color Theory & Application, Form & Space Relationships, Scale & Proportion |
| AR11W1.1 | Architectural Workshop - I (Model Making & Carpentry) | Workshop | 4 | Model Making Techniques, Material Exploration (Cardboard, Wood), Carpentry Tools & Safety, Basic Wood Joints, Simple Furniture Design |
| AR11HS1.1 | English for Architects | Theory | 2 | Communication Skills, Technical Writing, Presentation Skills, Report Writing, Professional Etiquette |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR21T2.1 | History of Architecture - II | Theory | 3 | Classical Greek Architecture, Roman Architecture, Early Christian & Byzantine Architecture, Islamic Architecture in India, Indian Temple Architecture |
| AR21T2.2 | Building Materials & Construction - II | Theory | 3 | Timber as a Building Material, Steel & Its Applications, Glass & Glazing, Plastics & Composites, Roof Systems, Doors & Windows |
| AR21T2.3 | Climatology | Theory | 3 | Elements of Climate (Sun, Wind, Rain), Solar Path & Orientation, Thermal Comfort Zones, Passive Cooling Strategies, Daylight & Artificial Lighting |
| AR21L2.1 | Architectural Graphics - II | Studio | 4 | Perspective Drawing (1-Point, 2-Point), Sciography & Shadows, Axonometric & Oblique Projections, Measured Drawing & Documentation, Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) Basics |
| AR21S2.1 | Basic Design & Visual Arts - II | Studio | 6 | Spatial Composition & Organization, Transformation & Juxtaposition, Analogy & Metaphor in Design, Contextual Response in Design, Visual Narrative & Expression |
| AR21W2.1 | Architectural Workshop - II (Sculpture & Pottery) | Workshop | 4 | Clay Modeling Techniques, Sculpting with Various Materials, Pottery Wheel & Hand-building, Glazing & Firing Techniques, Functional & Aesthetic Pottery |
| AR21BS2.1 | Applied Mechanics | Theory | 3 | Forces & Moments, Equilibrium of Bodies, Stress & Strain, Properties of Materials, Beams & Trusses |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR31T3.1 | History of Architecture - III | Theory | 3 | Medieval European Architecture (Gothic, Romanesque), Renaissance Architecture, Baroque & Rococo Architecture, Colonial Architecture in India, Vernacular Architecture in India |
| AR31T3.2 | Building Materials & Construction - III | Theory | 3 | Plain & Reinforced Cement Concrete, Ferrocement & Fibre Reinforced Concrete, Formwork Systems, Foundation Types, Flooring Materials & Techniques |
| AR31T3.3 | Building Structures - I | Theory | 3 | Types of Structures & Loads, Shear Force & Bending Moment Diagrams, Torsion & Axial Force, Columns & Their Behavior, Introduction to Slabs |
| AR31T3.4 | Surveying & Leveling | Theory | 3 | Introduction to Surveying, Chain & Compass Surveying, Plane Table Surveying, Leveling & Contouring, Modern Surveying Instruments (Total Station) |
| AR31S3.1 | Architectural Design - I | Studio | 7 | Architectural Design Process, Site Analysis & Contextual Design, Functional Zoning & Space Planning, Design Principles (Hierarchy, Axis), Basic Presentation Techniques |
| AR31W3.1 | Architectural Workshop - III (Photography & Graphics) | Workshop | 4 | Photography Basics (Composition, Lighting), Digital Image Editing (Photoshop), Graphic Design Principles, Layout Design for Presentations, Brochure & Poster Design |
| AR31HM3.1 | Sociology & Built Environment | Theory | 3 | Society, Culture & Architecture, Urban Sociology & Planning, Housing & Community, Social Impact of Design, Participatory Design |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR41T4.1 | History of Architecture - IV | Theory | 3 | Industrial Revolution Architecture, Art Nouveau & Art Deco, Modernism & its Pioneers, Post-Modernism, Contemporary Global & Indian Architecture |
| AR41T4.2 | Building Materials & Construction - IV | Theory | 3 | Prefabricated Building Systems, Membrane & Shell Structures, Smart Materials in Architecture, Acoustics & Sound Insulation, Thermal Insulation & Green Roofs |
| AR41T4.3 | Building Structures - II | Theory | 3 | Design of Reinforced Concrete Beams & Slabs, Design of Reinforced Concrete Columns, Steel Structures (Trusses, Girders), Introduction to Long Span Structures, Composite Structures |
| AR41T4.4 | Water Supply and Sanitation | Theory | 3 | Sources of Water Supply, Water Treatment & Distribution, Plumbing Systems in Buildings, Drainage Systems (Sanitary, Stormwater), Solid Waste Management |
| AR41S4.1 | Architectural Design - II | Studio | 7 | Residential Building Design, Small Scale Public Buildings (e.g., Community Centre), User Requirements & Anthropometry, Contextual Response & Sustainability, Advanced Presentation & Rendering |
| AR41HM4.1 | Economics for Architects | Theory | 3 | Micro & Macro Economics, Land Economics & Real Estate, Project Feasibility Studies, Valuation Principles, Cost-Benefit Analysis |
| AR41OE4.x | Open Elective - I | Elective | 2 | Entrepreneurship Development, Environmental Studies, Indian Constitution, Research Methods, Professional Ethics & Human Values |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR51T5.1 | Building Services - I (Electrical) | Theory | 3 | Basic Electrical Principles, Electrical Wiring & Installations, Lighting Design & Illumination, Renewable Energy Systems (Solar, Wind), Electrical Safety & Codes |
| AR51T5.2 | Landscape Architecture | Theory | 3 | History & Theory of Landscape Design, Principles of Landscape Design, Site Ecology & Analysis, Hardscape & Softscape Elements, Sustainable Landscape Practices |
| AR51T5.3 | Human Settlements Planning | Theory | 3 | Urbanization & Population Dynamics, Rural & Regional Planning, Housing Policies & Schemes, Infrastructure Development, Sustainable Development Goals in Planning |
| AR51T5.4 | Building Structures - III | Theory | 3 | Pre-stressed Concrete Structures, Timber Structures, Masonry Structures (Advanced), Earthquake Resistant Design Principles, Retaining Walls & Foundations |
| AR51S5.1 | Architectural Design - III | Studio | 7 | Design of Public Buildings (e.g., Library, Museum), Institutional Building Design, Complex Programs & Circulation, Urban Context & Public Interface, Accessibility & Universal Design |
| AR51HS5.1 | Professional Communication & Ethics | Theory | 2 | Communication in Professional Practice, Negotiation & Conflict Resolution, Professional Conduct & Responsibilities, Council of Architecture Norms & Bye-laws, Legal & Ethical Issues in Architecture |
| AR51OE5.x | Open Elective - II | Elective | 2 | Research & Design Methodologies, Innovation & Design Thinking, Cyber Security & Ethics, Disaster Management, Introduction to Art History |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR61T6.1 | Building Services - II (HVAC & Fire Safety) | Theory | 3 | HVAC Systems & Principles, Air Conditioning & Ventilation Design, Fire Detection & Alarm Systems, Fire Suppression Systems (Sprinklers, Hydrants), Building Codes for Fire Safety |
| AR61T6.2 | Urban Design | Theory | 3 | Theories & Principles of Urban Design, Urban Morphology & Typology, Public Spaces & Street Design, Urban Conservation & Regeneration, Sustainable Urban Development |
| AR61T6.3 | Building Bye-Laws & Professional Practice - I | Theory | 3 | National Building Code (NBC), Local Building Bye-laws & Zoning Regulations, Floor Space Index (FSI) / FAR, Professional Roles & Responsibilities, Architect''''s Act & Registration |
| AR61T6.4 | Estimation & Costing | Theory | 3 | Quantity Surveying & Measurements, Rate Analysis for Building Items, Preparation of Bill of Quantities (BOQ), Cost Control & Project Budgeting, Tender Documents & Contract Forms |
| AR61S6.1 | Architectural Design - IV | Studio | 7 | Design of Multi-functional Complexes, Healthcare Facilities Design, Heritage Revitalization Projects, Sustainable & Green Building Design, Integrated Building Systems Design |
| AR61PE6.x | Professional Elective - I | Elective | 4 | Advanced Architectural Graphics, Vernacular Architecture, Urban Conservation, Smart Cities & Infrastructure, Housing Typologies |
| AR61HM6.1 | Principles of Management | Theory | 3 | Management Theories & Functions (POSDCORB), Planning & Decision Making, Organizing & Staffing, Directing & Controlling, Project Management Tools & Techniques |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR71T7.1 | Specifications & Contracts | Theory | 3 | Types of Specifications (General, Detailed), Tender Documents & Procedures, Contract Administration & Management, Legal Aspects of Contracts, Dispute Resolution Mechanisms |
| AR71T7.2 | Research Methodology | Theory | 3 | Introduction to Research Types, Literature Review & Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Qualitative, Quantitative), Data Analysis & Interpretation, Academic Writing & Report Formulation |
| AR71T7.3 | Urban Planning & Housing | Theory | 3 | Urban Planning Theories & Models, Master Plans & Zonal Regulations, Housing Typologies & Policies, Affordable Housing & Slum Rehabilitation, Urban Infrastructure & Services |
| AR71S7.1 | Architectural Design - V | Studio | 8 | Urban Design Projects, Large Scale Public Infrastructure (e.g., Transport Hubs), Mixed-Use Developments, Master Planning & Site Development, Integrated Urban & Architectural Solutions |
| AR71PE7.x | Professional Elective - II | Elective | 4 | Digital Fabrication & Parametric Design, Sustainable Building Materials, Disaster Resistant Architecture, Housing Design & Policies, Advanced Climatology |
| AR71PE7.x | Professional Elective - III | Elective | 4 | Interior Design, Retail Design & Merchandising, Exhibition Design, Lighting Design, Furniture Design |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR81T8.1 | Valuation | Theory | 3 | Principles & Methods of Valuation, Depreciation & Obsolescence, Property Law & Real Estate, Investment Analysis in Real Estate, Rent Fixation & Taxation |
| AR81T8.2 | Project Management | Theory | 3 | Project Life Cycle & Planning, Scheduling Techniques (CPM, PERT), Resource Management & Allocation, Risk Management in Projects, Quality Control & Assurance |
| AR81T8.3 | Professional Practice - II | Theory | 3 | Architectural Office Management, Financial Management & Marketing for Architects, Legal Framework & Arbitration, Copyright & Intellectual Property, Professional Liability & Insurance |
| AR81S8.1 | Architectural Design - VI | Studio | 8 | Advanced Architectural Design Methodologies, Typological Studies & Innovation, Complex Programs with Research Component, Regenerative & Ecological Design, Speculative & Futuristic Architecture |
| AR81PE8.x | Professional Elective - IV | Elective | 4 | Parametric Design & Computational Tools, Green Building Rating Systems (LEED, GRIHA), Building Information Modeling (BIM), Smart Materials & Technology, Design for Disaster Resilience |
| AR81PE8.x | Professional Elective - V | Elective | 4 | Heritage Management & Conservation, Urban Landscape Design, Public Art & Placemaking, Restoration & Adaptive Reuse, Architectural Criticism & Theory |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR91IT9.1 | Practical Training (Internship) | Internship/Project | 26 | Professional Office Practice & Management, Project Documentation & Drawings, Site Supervision & Construction Management, Client Interaction & Communication, Legal & Contractual Aspects of Practice |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR101P10.1 | Architectural Thesis Project | Project | 20 | In-depth Architectural Research, Comprehensive Site Analysis, Program Development & Formulation, Conceptual & Design Development, Advanced Detailing & Presentation |
| AR101S10.1 | Seminar | Seminar | 4 | Literature Review & Critical Analysis, Academic Presentation Skills, Discussion & Viva-voce Preparation, Research Communication, Contemporary Architectural Topics |
| AR101E10.1 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Viva | 4 | Overall Architectural Knowledge, Understanding of Design Principles, Technical & Theoretical Aptitude, Professional Ethics & Practice, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving |




