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M-ARCH in Architectural Design at Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology University
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Architectural Design at Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology University Ahmedabad?
This Architectural Design program at CEPT University focuses on developing advanced design research and critical thinking skills. It addresses complex contemporary architectural challenges within the Indian urban context, emphasizing innovation and sustainable practices. The program differentiates itself through its studio-based pedagogy and strong research orientation, meeting the evolving demands of Indian architectural practice.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Architecture graduates passionate about deepening their design expertise and engaging with complex built environment issues. It suits professionals seeking to enhance their theoretical foundations, critical design methodologies, or pursue academic and research careers. It also attracts those aiming to lead design teams in large Indian architectural firms or contribute to urban development.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to excel in design leadership roles within architecture firms, urban development agencies, or research institutions across India. Potential career paths include senior architect, urban designer, design researcher, or academician. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 10-25 LPA, with strong growth trajectories in leading Indian consultancies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Design Research & Critical Inquiry- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in seminar discussions, dissecting architectural theories and historical precedents. Develop rigorous research questions for studio projects and document findings thoroughly, utilizing CEPT''''s extensive library resources.
Tools & Resources
CEPT Library, Academic journals (e.g., Marg, Architectural Digest India), Online research databases
Career Connection
Builds analytical skills crucial for evidence-based design and complex problem-solving in Indian architectural practice, fostering innovative solutions.
Cultivate Advanced Design & Representation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Push boundaries in studio projects by exploring diverse design methodologies and mastering advanced digital and physical modeling techniques. Seek constant feedback from faculty and peers to refine design narratives and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD, Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, V-Ray, Adobe Creative Suite, Laser cutters, 3D printers
Career Connection
Prepares students for demanding design roles in top Indian firms, where sophisticated representation and strong design articulation are paramount.
Engage with Urban Realities & Context- (Semester 1-2)
Participate actively in site visits, urban explorations, and community engagement initiatives during studio projects. Understand socio-economic and cultural factors influencing architectural interventions in India''''s diverse urban landscapes.
Tools & Resources
Field visits, Local government reports, Community workshops, Guest lectures by Indian urbanists
Career Connection
Develops context-sensitive design thinking, highly valued by Indian urban development authorities and firms working on public projects.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives & Research Focus- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose electives that align with your specific interests within architectural design (e.g., sustainability, digital fabrication, conservation). Use the Research Paper opportunity to delve deeply into a chosen area, establishing expertise.
Tools & Resources
Elective course offerings, CEPT faculty research profiles, Academic databases for specialized topics
Career Connection
Allows for focused skill development, making you a specialist in high-demand areas within Indian architectural design and research.
Network with Industry Leaders & Alumni- (Semester 3)
Attend workshops, guest lectures, and professional events organized by CEPT and local architectural bodies. Connect with alumni and industry professionals through mentorship programs or informal interactions to gain insights and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
CEPT alumni network, Architectural associations (IIA), LinkedIn, Local design forums
Career Connection
Builds a strong professional network essential for internships, job referrals, and collaborative projects within the Indian architecture scene.
Develop Interdisciplinary Collaboration Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to collaborate on projects with students from other faculties (e.g., Urban Planning, Technology). This fosters a holistic understanding of project delivery and complex problem-solving in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Inter-faculty design competitions, Collaborative studio projects, Student organizations at CEPT
Career Connection
Prepares graduates for multidisciplinary teams prevalent in large-scale Indian development projects, enhancing leadership potential.
Advanced Stage
Master Thesis/Portfolio Development- (Semester 4)
Approach the final Portfolio/Dissertation as a comprehensive culmination of your M.Arch journey. Focus on articulating a strong design philosophy, showcasing advanced research, and presenting your work with professional rigor and clarity.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated studio time, Faculty advisors, Peer review sessions, Professional portfolio platforms
Career Connection
A strong portfolio/dissertation is crucial for securing top placements and demonstrating readiness for leadership roles in architectural design firms across India.
Refine Presentation & Communication for Industry- (Semester 4)
Practice presenting your design work to diverse audiences, including mock juries with industry professionals. Develop a concise and impactful communication style that highlights design intent, methodology, and innovation, tailored for Indian stakeholders.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking workshops, Design review panels, Professional communication guides
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are vital for client presentations, stakeholder engagement, and securing project approvals in the competitive Indian architectural market.
Strategic Career Planning & Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with CEPT''''s placement cell to identify target firms and prepare for interviews. Tailor your resume and portfolio to specific job roles, highlighting relevant skills and projects undertaken in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
CEPT Placement Cell, Career counseling, Mock interview sessions, Company research
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition into the professional world, maximizing opportunities for desirable placements within leading Indian architecture and design firms.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelors of Architecture degree or an equivalent degree recognised by the Council of Architecture, India. Candidates with minimum 55% aggregate marks for general category and 50% aggregate marks for SC/ST/OBC category in Bachelor’s degree examinations.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: Minimum 100 credits (actual: 104 credits) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AD6001 | Architectural Design Studio I | Core (Studio) | 16 | Urban morphology, Building typology, Site analysis, Design brief interpretation, Concept development |
| AD6002 | Architectural Design Seminar I | Core (Seminar) | 4 | Critical discourse, Historical precedents, Theoretical frameworks, Contemporary architectural practices, Research methods |
| CE(various) | Core Elective I | Elective | 4 | Advanced material systems, Building performance analysis, Conservation practices, Housing studies, Landscape urbanism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AD6003 | Architectural Design Studio II | Core (Studio) | 16 | Complex urban interventions, Programmatic density, Structural articulation, Environmental responsiveness, Advanced representation |
| AD6004 | Architectural Design Seminar II | Core (Seminar) | 4 | Design research methodologies, Critical regionalism, Digital fabrication, Sustainable design principles, Post-occupancy evaluation |
| CE(various) | Core Elective II | Elective | 4 | Project management, Real estate development, Smart cities planning, Heritage management, Computational design |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AD7001 | Architectural Design Studio III | Core (Studio) | 16 | Master planning, Large-scale developments, Policy implications, Public realm design, Infrastructure integration |
| AD7002 | Research Paper | Core | 8 | Literature review, Research question formulation, Data collection methods, Analysis and interpretation, Academic writing |
| OE(various) | Open Elective I | Elective | 4 | Urban sociology, Advanced visualization, History of art, Environmental law, Social impact assessment |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AD7003 | Portfolio/Dissertation | Core (Capstone) | 28 | Design thesis development, Portfolio curation, Advanced research synthesis, Critical reflection, Professional presentation |
