.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-ARCH in Urban Design at B.M.S. School of Architecture
Bengaluru, Karnataka
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Urban Design at B.M.S. School of Architecture Bengaluru?
This Urban Design program at BMS College of Architecture, Design & Planning focuses on crafting livable, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing urban environments. It delves into the intricate processes of urban planning, policy, ecology, and heritage management, crucial for India''''s rapidly expanding cities. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating architectural design with socio-economic and environmental considerations to address complex urban challenges and shape resilient communities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for architecture graduates eager to shape the future of urban landscapes in India. It also suits working professionals in related fields, such as urban planning or civil engineering, seeking to specialize in urban design for career advancement. Individuals passionate about sustainable urban development, heritage conservation, and smart city initiatives, possessing strong analytical and design skills, will thrive in this curriculum.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in urban planning departments, architectural firms, real estate development, or as consultants for smart city projects. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Roles include Urban Designer, Planning Consultant, Conservation Architect, or Project Manager. The comprehensive skill set aligns with the demand for qualified professionals in India''''s booming infrastructure and urban development sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Urban Design Fundamentals & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp core theories of urban design, planning, and ecology. Simultaneously, develop robust research methodology skills, critical for analyzing urban issues. Engage deeply with case studies from Indian cities to contextualize learning. Utilize academic databases for literature reviews and participate in introductory design studios to build foundational conceptualization and presentation abilities.
Tools & Resources
VTU E-Learning Portal, NPTEL courses on Urban Planning, Journals like ''''Journal of Urban Design'''', AutoCAD, SketchUp for initial design explorations
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures clear understanding of urban complexities, crucial for all future design and planning roles, improving analytical thinking for entrance exams and early project work.
Develop Advanced Digital Graphics & Presentation Prowess- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to master advanced digital tools for urban representation. Focus on creating compelling visual narratives for design proposals and analysis. Practice using GIS for urban data mapping and analysis, and refine rendering skills to convey design intent effectively. Regularly seek feedback on presentation clarity and visual impact.
Tools & Resources
ArcGIS/QGIS, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Rhino, SketchUp, Lumion for 3D modeling and rendering
Career Connection
Exceptional presentation and graphic skills are indispensable for urban designers, enabling them to communicate complex ideas to diverse stakeholders, directly impacting project approvals and career visibility in firms.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in group studio projects, leveraging diverse perspectives from peers. Organize study groups to discuss complex urban theories and share insights on design challenges. Collaborate on minor research assignments, fostering teamwork and critical dialogue, which are vital for real-world urban projects in India.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online forums for urban planning discussions, Collaborative design platforms like Miro or Figma
Career Connection
Effective collaboration and communication skills developed through peer learning are highly valued by employers, essential for working in multidisciplinary teams on large-scale urban development projects.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Site-Specific Case Studies and Field Visits- (Semester 3)
Proactively identify and visit various urban sites in Bengaluru and other Indian cities, focusing on conservation areas, smart city initiatives, or redevelopment zones. Document observations, interview local stakeholders, and analyze existing urban fabric. This direct engagement provides invaluable practical insight into Indian urban challenges and solutions.
Tools & Resources
Field study reports, Interview guidelines, Photography and sketching equipment, Local urban planning department reports
Career Connection
Real-world exposure enhances design sensitivity and problem-solving abilities, making graduates more attractive to firms seeking candidates with practical understanding of Indian urban contexts and heritage.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Studio Projects- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose electives that align with personal career interests, such as Landscape Urbanism or specific policy areas. Dive deep into advanced urban design studios, tackling complex, large-scale projects that require integrated solutions. Focus on developing a niche expertise, which is crucial for standing out in the competitive Indian urban design market.
Tools & Resources
Specialized software for chosen elective (e.g., environmental simulation tools), Mentorship from faculty experts in specific domains, International journals and research papers
Career Connection
Developing specialized skills makes graduates highly sought after for specific roles within urban planning consultancies, government bodies, or NGOs working on focused urban interventions.
Participate in National Design Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3)
Actively seek and participate in urban design competitions, hackathons, and workshops organized by professional bodies like the Institute of Urban Designers – India (IUDI) or prominent architecture firms. This provides exposure to industry standards, networking opportunities, and a platform to showcase innovative design solutions for real-world urban problems in India.
Tools & Resources
Competition briefs, Mentors for design critique, Online urban design communities
Career Connection
Competition experience builds a robust portfolio, demonstrates problem-solving under pressure, and offers crucial networking avenues, significantly boosting placement prospects and industry recognition.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Strategic Internship with Industry Leaders- (Semester 4 (Urban Design Project Phase I))
Secure an internship with a reputed urban design firm, government planning agency, or a real estate developer involved in large-scale urban projects. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in various stages of project development, from conceptualization and policy drafting to implementation and site supervision, understanding the Indian regulatory framework.
Tools & Resources
Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), College placement cell, Portfolio of design work
Career Connection
Internships are often direct pathways to full-time employment, offering invaluable industry exposure, practical skill development, and a strong professional network essential for career launch in India.
Develop a Comprehensive Urban Design Project/Dissertation- (Semester 4 (Urban Design Project Phase II))
Invest significant effort in developing a high-quality, research-driven final Urban Design Project or Dissertation. Choose a topic with high relevance to contemporary Indian urban issues, offering innovative and practical solutions. Ensure thorough documentation, rigorous analysis, and a strong design outcome that reflects mastery of the specialization.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisors, Statistical software (SPSS, R), CAD/GIS software, Professional peer review
Career Connection
A strong final project serves as the cornerstone of your professional portfolio, showcasing your ability to conduct independent research, solve complex problems, and deliver impactful design, critically important for securing top positions.
Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Throughout the program, intensifying in Semester 4)
Actively network with alumni, industry professionals, and faculty. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops. Create a professional online presence (e.g., LinkedIn, Behance) showcasing your portfolio and projects. Develop strong communication and leadership skills to articulate your vision and contribute to professional discourse in urban development.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (e.g., IUDI, ITPI events), Personal website/portfolio hosting platforms
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to hidden job markets, mentorship opportunities, and future collaborations, while a strong personal brand enhances visibility and credibility in the competitive Indian urban design sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates with B. Arch. Degree from a recognized University / Institution with 50% marks in aggregate (45% for SC/ST/Category-I candidates) and must have qualified in GATE or PGCET.
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 84 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (for theory subjects); 100% (for Studio/Seminar/Project work); 50% (for Dissertation/Project Work Phase II), External: 50% (for theory subjects); 0% (for Studio/Seminar/Project work); 50% (Viva-Voce for Dissertation/Project Work Phase II)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MAR11 | Theory of Urban Design | Core | 4 | Introduction to Urban Design, Historical Perspectives, Theories and Concepts, Urban Form and Structure, Contemporary Urbanism |
| 22MAR12 | Urban Planning and Development | Core | 4 | Urban Planning Principles, Planning Legislation in India, Development Control Regulations, Housing Policies, Infrastructure Planning |
| 22MUD13 | Urban Ecology and Environment | Core | 4 | Ecological Principles, Environmental Impact Assessment, Sustainable Urbanism, Green Infrastructure, Climate Change and Cities |
| 22MUD14 | Urban Design Studio I | Core | 8 | Site Analysis, Master Planning, Urban Form Generation, Public Space Design, Design Presentation |
| 22MUD15 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Report Writing, Literature Review |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MUD21 | Urban Conservation and Heritage Management | Core | 4 | Heritage Definitions, Conservation Theories, Legal Frameworks, Heritage Zones, Adaptive Reuse |
| 22MUD22 | Smart Cities and Urban Systems | Core | 4 | Smart City Concepts, Urban Systems Integration, Digital Technologies, Data Analytics for Cities, Future Urbanism |
| 22MUD23 | Real Estate and Urban Economics | Core | 4 | Land Markets, Real Estate Development, Urban Economic Theories, Public-Private Partnerships, Project Feasibility |
| 22MUD24 | Urban Design Studio II | Core | 8 | Complex Urban Sites, Redevelopment Strategies, Transport Integration, Community Engagement, Detailed Design Proposals |
| 22MUD25 | Advanced Graphics and Presentation | Core | 4 | Digital Modeling, GIS Applications, Advanced Rendering, Presentation Techniques, Portfolio Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MUD31 | Planning Legislation and Governance | Core | 4 | Urban Governance Structures, Legal Frameworks, Planning Acts, Public Participation, Policy Implementation |
| 22MUDE321 | Elective - I (Example: Landscape Urbanism) | Elective | 4 | Landscape Ecology, Green Infrastructure Planning, Public Realm Design, Ecological Design, Urban Permeability |
| 22MUD33 | Urban Design Studio III | Core | 8 | Regional Scale Interventions, Strategic Design, Policy Integration, Large Scale Project Management, Development Frameworks |
| 22MUD34 | Seminar | Core | 4 | Literature Review, Critical Analysis, Presentation Skills, Academic Writing, Research Dissemination |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MUD41 | Internship/Urban Design Project Phase I | Core | 4 | Professional Practice, Project Scoping, Data Collection, Site Visits, Problem Identification |
| 22MUD42 | Dissertation / Urban Design Project Phase II | Core | 12 | Thesis Development, Detailed Design Solution, Research Application, Comprehensive Documentation, Viva-Voce Preparation |
