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B-ARCH in General at Gujarat Technological University
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is General at Gujarat Technological University Ahmedabad?
This B.Arch program at Gujarat Technological University focuses on developing skilled architects capable of designing innovative, sustainable, and functional built environments. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical studio-based learning, emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving relevant to India''''s diverse architectural landscape. It prepares students for multifaceted roles in the burgeoning Indian construction and design industry, fostering design excellence.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative and analytical individuals passionate about shaping the built environment. It attracts fresh 10+2 graduates with strong aptitude in drawing, mathematics, and critical thinking, as demonstrated by NATA scores. The curriculum is also suitable for those who wish to contribute to sustainable urban development and heritage conservation, seeking a rigorous, design-intensive professional degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in architectural firms, construction companies, government organizations (like CPWD, PWD, urban development authorities), and as independent consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience (INR 8-15+ LPA). Graduates often pursue higher studies in urban planning, landscape design, or conservation, contributing to India''''s rapidly expanding infrastructure sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Design Principles and Graphics- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently practice fundamental design elements, principles, and architectural graphics. Spend extra hours in the studio perfecting sketching, orthographic projections, and model making. Actively seek feedback from professors and peers to refine visual communication skills from day one.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drawing Boards, CAD Software (AutoCAD), Architectural model-making kits, Reference books on basic design
Career Connection
Strong foundational graphics and design sensibility are crucial for conveying complex architectural ideas, forming the bedrock for all future design work and essential for an architect''''s portfolio.
Build a Strong Understanding of Materials and Construction- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with materials and construction courses through site visits, hands-on workshops, and studying building details. Understand the properties and applications of common Indian building materials like brick, concrete, and steel. Document observations meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Construction site visits, Building material samples, Standard codes of practice (IS codes), Detailed construction drawings
Career Connection
A solid grasp of construction techniques and material science is indispensable for translating design concepts into buildable structures, ensuring practical and sustainable architectural solutions in the Indian context.
Cultivate Critical Thinking through History & Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in discussions on architectural history and theory, connecting historical precedents to contemporary design challenges in India. Analyze different architectural styles and their societal impact. Develop a personal viewpoint on architectural philosophies.
Tools & Resources
Architectural history textbooks, Online architectural journals, Documentaries on famous architects and buildings, Library resources
Career Connection
A deep historical and theoretical understanding provides context for design decisions, enables innovative problem-solving, and informs a unique architectural identity, highly valued in design and academic roles.
Intermediate Stage
Excel in Studio Projects with Real-World Relevance- (Semester 3-5)
Approach architectural design studios as real projects, focusing on site analysis, user requirements, and environmental considerations. Seek opportunities to work on community-based or socially relevant projects, understanding India-specific challenges like affordable housing or urban infrastructure.
Tools & Resources
GIS software, Architectural modeling software (SketchUp, Revit), Building Bye-laws and regulations, Case studies of Indian architecture
Career Connection
High-quality, contextually sensitive design projects form the core of a student''''s portfolio, directly influencing internship and placement opportunities in competitive Indian architectural firms.
Integrate Building Systems and Sustainable Design- (Semester 3-5)
Actively learn and integrate knowledge of water supply, sanitation, electrical, HVAC systems, and passive climatology into design projects. Focus on developing energy-efficient and environmentally responsible solutions relevant to India''''s climate zones and resource constraints.
Tools & Resources
Energy simulation software (e.g., EnergyPlus, Ecotect), Green building rating systems (e.g., IGBC, GRIHA), CPWD specifications, Technical handbooks on building services
Career Connection
Expertise in sustainable and integrated building systems is highly sought after by firms specializing in green buildings and large-scale infrastructure projects, aligning with India''''s push for sustainable development.
Develop Digital Proficiency and Visualization Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Continuously enhance skills in CAD for precise working drawings and 3D modeling for impactful visualizations. Explore rendering, animation, and basic BIM concepts. Participate in workshops or online courses to stay updated with industry-standard software.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, V-Ray/Lumion for rendering, Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator, Online tutorials (e.g., YouTube, Udemy)
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools is non-negotiable for modern architects, directly impacting efficiency, presentation quality, and employability in architectural and construction firms.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive and Innovative Thesis Project- (Semester 7-10)
Choose a relevant and challenging thesis topic, conducting thorough research, developing innovative design solutions, and presenting a well-articulated architectural argument. Focus on addressing contemporary issues in Indian urbanism or rural development.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research methodology guides, Advanced modeling and rendering software, Physical model making, Presentation software
Career Connection
A strong thesis project showcases a student''''s ability to conduct independent research, synthesize complex information, and propose original design solutions, serving as a powerful credential for higher studies or specialized roles.
Gain Practical Experience through Quality Internship- (Semester 9)
Secure a meaningful internship in a reputable architectural firm or government agency. Actively engage in office work, site visits, client meetings, and documentation. Learn professional ethics, project management, and team collaboration in a real-world setting.
Tools & Resources
Professional network (alumni, faculty), Internship portals, Cover letter and resume workshops, Office etiquette guides
Career Connection
Internships are critical for practical exposure, professional networking, and often lead to pre-placement offers. They bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, making graduates job-ready.
Develop Professional Acumen and Business Skills- (Semester 7-10)
Attend seminars on professional practice, architectural law, contracts, and construction economics. Understand the nuances of starting an architectural practice, managing clients, and project finances. Network with senior architects and business leaders.
Tools & Resources
COA Handbooks, Architects Act, 1972, Books on project management and entrepreneurship, Industry conferences and workshops
Career Connection
Beyond design, understanding the business and legal aspects of architecture is vital for leadership roles, independent practice, and ensuring ethical and financially viable projects in the Indian construction sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years
Credits: 250 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3110001 | Basic Design – I | Core | 6 | Elements of Design, Principles of Design, Visual Composition, Form, Space, and Order, Color Theory |
| 3110002 | Architectural Graphics – I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Architectural Drawing, Orthographic Projections, Dimensioning and Lettering, Line Types and Line Weights, Basic Geometric Constructions |
| 3110003 | Materials and Construction – I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Building Materials, Brick Masonry, Stone Masonry, Timber Construction, Mortars and Concrete |
| 3110004 | History of Architecture – I | Core | 3 | Pre-historic Architecture, Ancient River Valley Civilizations, Egyptian Architecture, Mesopotamian Architecture, Indus Valley Civilization |
| 3110005 | Structures – I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Structural Mechanics, Forces and Moments, Equilibrium Conditions, Trusses and Frames, Stress and Strain |
| 3110006 | Architectural Design and Theory – I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Architectural Design, Design Process and Methodology, Elements of Architectural Theory, Contextual Design, Function and Form |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3120001 | Basic Design – II | Core | 6 | Spatial Organization, Mass and Void Relationships, Circulation and Movement, Scale and Proportion, Experiential Design |
| 3120002 | Architectural Graphics – II | Core | 4 | Isometric and Axonometric Projections, Perspective Drawing, Shades and Shadows, Rendering Techniques, Technical Drawing Standards |
| 3120003 | Materials and Construction – II | Core | 4 | Concrete Technology, Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) Basics, Metal Construction (Steel), Glass and Plastics in Architecture, Doors, Windows, and Ventilators |
| 3120004 | History of Architecture – II | Core | 3 | Classical Greek Architecture, Roman Architecture, Early Christian and Byzantine Architecture, Indian Temple Architecture (Early), Buddhist and Jain Architecture |
| 3120005 | Structures – II | Core | 4 | Shear Force and Bending Moment Diagrams, Properties of Sections, Bending Stresses, Shear Stresses, Column Action |
| 3120006 | Architectural Design and Theory – II | Core | 4 | Site Analysis and Planning, Programming in Architecture, Concept Development, User Needs and Ergonomics, Architectural Typologies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3130001 | Architectural Design – III | Core | 8 | Small Scale Institutional Design, Residential Design Principles, Site Development and Landscape, Climatic Considerations in Design, Introduction to Building Bye-laws |
| 3130002 | Building Systems – I (Water Supply & Sanitation) | Core | 3 | Water Supply Systems, Drainage Systems, Sewage Disposal, Rainwater Harvesting, Plumbing Fixtures and Systems |
| 3130003 | Materials and Construction – III | Core | 4 | Foundations (Shallow and Deep), Damp Proofing and Water Proofing, Flooring Systems, Roofing Systems, Surface Finishes and Paints |
| 3130004 | History of Architecture – III | Core | 3 | Medieval European Architecture (Romanesque, Gothic), Islamic Architecture, Indian Islamic Architecture, Mughal Architecture, Indian Temple Architecture (Late) |
| 3130005 | Structures – III | Core | 4 | Deflection of Beams, Introduction to RCC Design Principles, Design of Simply Supported Beams, Design of Slabs, Introduction to RCC Columns |
| 3130006 | Computer Applications in Architecture – I | Core | 3 | Introduction to AutoCAD, 2D Drafting and Editing, Layers and Blocks, Dimensioning and Plotting, Basic commands for architectural drawings |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3140001 | Architectural Design – IV | Core | 8 | Multi-level Residential Design, Housing Typologies, Urban Context and Infill Design, Accessibility in Design, Sustainable Design Principles |
| 3140002 | Building Systems – II (Electrical & HVAC) | Core | 3 | Electrical Systems in Buildings, Lighting Design Principles, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Fire Safety Systems, Vertical Transportation (Lifts, Escalators) |
| 3140003 | Materials and Construction – IV | Core | 4 | Pre-fabricated Construction Systems, Temporary Structures, Advanced Roofing Systems, Curtain Walls and Glazing Systems, Introduction to Building Maintenance |
| 3140004 | History of Architecture – IV | Core | 3 | Renaissance Architecture, Baroque Architecture, Neo-classical Architecture, Colonial Architecture in India, Indo-Saracenic Architecture |
| 3140005 | Structures – IV | Core | 4 | Design of RCC Columns, Footings Design, Retaining Walls, Introduction to Steel Structures, Connection Details in Steel |
| 3140006 | Computer Applications in Architecture – II | Core | 3 | Introduction to 3D Modeling (SketchUp/Rhino), Creating Architectural Models, Rendering Basics, Walkthroughs and Animations, Parametric Design Concepts |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3150001 | Architectural Design – V | Core | 8 | Large Scale Public Buildings, Complex Functional Requirements, Acoustics in Design, Lighting Design for Public Spaces, Building Codes and Regulations |
| 3150002 | Climatology and Energy Efficient Architecture | Core | 3 | Climate Zones of India, Passive Design Strategies, Thermal Comfort, Daylighting Techniques, Building Performance Simulation |
| 3150003 | Urban Planning Theory | Core | 3 | Introduction to Urban Planning, Theories of Urbanization, Urban Morphology, Components of Urban Planning, Planning for Indian Cities |
| 3150004 | History of Architecture – V | Core | 3 | Industrial Revolution and its Impact, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, Early Modern Architecture, Bauhaus and International Style, Architects like Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright |
| 3150005 | Structures – V | Core | 4 | Pre-stressed Concrete Basics, Shear Walls, High Rise Building Structures, Introduction to Seismic Design, Advanced Steel Structures |
| 3150006 | Working Drawing – I | Core | 4 | Components of Working Drawing Set, Detailed Plans, Sections, Elevations, Joinery Details (Doors, Windows), Building Tolerances, Interpreting Shop Drawings |
| 3150007 | Professional Practice – I | Core | 3 | Role of Architect in India, Council of Architecture (COA) Regulations, Architects Act, Types of Professional Services, Architect''''s Fee and Engagement |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3160001 | Architectural Design – VI | Core | 8 | Urban Design Intervention, Heritage Conservation and Adaptive Reuse, Infrastructure-related Architecture, Public Space Design, Parametric and Digital Fabrication in Design |
| 3160002 | Landscape Architecture | Core | 3 | Elements of Landscape Design, Hardscape and Softscape, Site Grading and Drainage, Planting Design, Sustainable Landscape Practices |
| 3160003 | Urban Design Theory | Core | 3 | Theories of Urban Design, Public Realm and Urban Form, Street Design, Urban Regeneration, Case Studies in Urban Design |
| 3160004 | Contemporary Architecture and Critical Theory | Core | 3 | Post-Modernism, Deconstructivism, Sustainable Architecture Movement, Regionalism in Architecture, Current Trends and Future Directions |
| 3160005 | Specifications and Estimation | Core | 4 | Types of Specifications, Quantity Surveying Principles, Rate Analysis, Estimation of Building Components, Tender Documents and Process |
| 3160006 | Working Drawing – II | Core | 4 | Detailed Toilet Blocks, Staircase Details, Cabinetry and Furniture Details, Ramp and Accessibility Details, Reflected Ceiling Plans |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3170001 | Architectural Design – VII (Design Thesis Preliminary) | Core | 10 | Research Methodology in Architecture, Thesis Topic Selection and Justification, Literature Review and Case Studies, Site Analysis and Contextual Study, Program Development and Brief Formulation |
| 3170002 | Advanced Building Construction | Core | 4 | Long Span Structures, Shell Structures, Tensile Structures, Smart Building Materials, Building Information Modeling (BIM) Concepts |
| 3170003 | Town Planning and Regional Planning | Core | 4 | Principles of Town Planning, Zoning and Land Use Planning, Regional Planning Concepts, Master Plans and Development Plans, Public Participation in Planning |
| 3170004 | Advanced Structures | Core | 4 | Introduction to Finite Element Analysis, Tall Building Structural Systems, Bridge Structures, Earthquake Resistant Design, Wind Load Analysis |
| 3170005 | Elective – I | Elective | 3 | Elective choices vary, generally focused on specialized areas like Interior Design, Sustainable Technologies, Urban Conservation, etc. |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3180001 | Architectural Design – VIII (Design Thesis Part I) | Core | 10 | Conceptual Design Development, Alternative Design Solutions, User Feedback Integration, Materiality and Construction Strategies, Energy Performance Analysis |
| 3180002 | Housing and Community Planning | Core | 4 | Housing Policies in India, Affordable Housing Models, Community Facilities and Services, Slum Rehabilitation, Participatory Planning Approaches |
| 3180003 | Project Management and Construction Economics | Core | 4 | Project Planning and Scheduling, CPM and PERT Techniques, Construction Cost Estimation, Tendering and Contract Administration, Construction Safety Management |
| 3180004 | Professional Practice – II | Core | 4 | Conditions of Engagement and Scale of Fees, Architect-Client Relationship, Arbitration and Legal Aspects, Intellectual Property Rights, Starting an Architectural Practice |
| 3180005 | Elective – II | Elective | 3 | Elective choices vary, generally focused on specialized areas like Urban Conservation, Interior Design, Digital Architecture, Research Methods. |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3190001 | Practical Training (Internship) | Core | 20 | Real-world Project Exposure, Office Procedures and Practices, Site Supervision and Coordination, Documentation and Report Writing, Professional Networking |
| 3190002 | Architectural Research and Dissertation | Core | 5 | In-depth Research on an Architectural Topic, Data Collection and Analysis, Critical Review of Literature, Report Writing and Presentation, Contribution to Architectural Knowledge |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3100001 | Architectural Design – IX (Design Thesis Final) | Core | 15 | Comprehensive Design Resolution, Detailed Design Development, Working Drawings and Specifications, Model Making and Presentation, Defense of Design Proposal |
| 3100002 | Town Planning Studio | Core | 5 | Preparation of Development Plans, Urban Renewal Projects, Site Planning for Large Areas, Infrastructure Integration, Policy Recommendations |
| 3100003 | Elective – III | Elective | 5 | Advanced topics in Sustainable Architecture, Housing, Urbanism, Digital Technologies, Heritage Management, etc. |
