

B-ARCH in General at Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur


Howrah, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is General at Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur Howrah?
This Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program at the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur focuses on comprehensive architectural education, blending design creativity with engineering principles. It is uniquely positioned in India to address the evolving demands of sustainable urban development, heritage conservation, and advanced building technologies. The program aims to cultivate architects who can innovate culturally sensitive and environmentally responsible built environments, catering to the rapid infrastructural growth and diverse design challenges prevalent across the Indian subcontinent.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative and analytical individuals passionate about shaping the built environment. It attracts fresh graduates aspiring to make a significant impact in architectural design, urban planning, or construction management. Professionals seeking to advance their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in specialized areas of architecture or those looking for a career transition into design-centric roles within the Indian construction industry will also find immense value here. A strong aptitude for problem-solving, visual arts, and an interest in societal development are key prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse and rewarding career paths in India, including roles as design architects, urban planners, conservation architects, landscape architects, or project managers in leading architectural firms, government agencies, and real estate developers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 15-30 lakhs, depending on specialization and firm. The program also prepares students for higher studies in M.Arch, M.Plan, or related fields, aligning with certifications from the Council of Architecture (COA) for professional practice.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Design & Drawing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to hands-on practice in basic design principles, visual arts, and architectural drawing. Regular sketching, model making, and precise drafting are crucial. Attend extra workshops on perspective, sciography, and rendering to solidify your foundation.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drafting tables, Model-making kits, AutoCAD basics, Peer design reviews, Art supplies
Career Connection
Strong foundational skills are essential for all future design studios and ensure professional-level presentation and communication of architectural ideas, critical for entry-level positions.
Build Strong Academic Fundamentals in Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core subjects like Building Materials, Construction, and Architectural History. Create concept maps, engage in group discussions, and seek clarification from faculty. Early mastery builds a solid base for advanced design and technical subjects.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals, Online architectural history databases, Departmental study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A deep understanding of materials and history informs context-sensitive and structurally sound designs, setting you apart in practice and enabling informed decision-making.
Cultivate Observation and Documentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly observe and document built environments, construction sites, and natural landscapes. Maintain a visual diary of architectural details, material usages, and spatial experiences. Practice measured drawing of existing structures to understand scale and proportion and develop an analytical eye.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbook, Camera, Measuring tape, Online architectural blogs, Local architectural tours
Career Connection
Sharp observation is fundamental for accurate site analysis, design inspiration, and understanding construction processes, making you a more effective designer and site supervisor in India''''s diverse contexts.
Intermediate Stage
Engage Deeply in Design Studio Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Approach each design studio project as a real-world problem. Go beyond minimum requirements by researching context, user needs, and innovative solutions. Actively participate in critiques, iterate designs based on feedback, and explore diverse representation techniques to refine your design process.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit (self-learning), Rendering software (V-Ray, Lumion), Model-making workshops, Design journals, COA design guidelines
Career Connection
Design studio work forms the core of your portfolio, directly impacting internship and placement opportunities by showcasing your problem-solving and creative abilities to potential employers.
Seek Industry Exposure through Internships and Site Visits- (Semester 4-5 (during summer breaks))
Actively seek out short internships or assistant roles in architectural firms or construction companies during breaks. Participate in organized site visits to gain practical insights into construction processes, material applications, and project management in a real-world setting.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Professional network events, Architectural directories, Site visit reports
Career Connection
Practical exposure bridges the gap between theory and practice, building professional networks and significantly improving employability, especially for roles requiring on-site experience in India''''s dynamic construction sector.
Develop Specialized Software Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond basic CAD, start learning advanced architectural software such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD), 3D modeling and rendering software, and graphic design tools (Adobe Suite). Aim for proficiency in at least one BIM software to enhance your technical skills.
Tools & Resources
Autodesk student licenses, Online tutorials (YouTube, Udemy, Coursera), Departmental workshops, Software user communities
Career Connection
High proficiency in industry-standard software is a significant advantage in the Indian job market, opening doors to design, visualization, and BIM specialist roles in top architectural and engineering firms.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Research and Development- (Semester 9-10)
Treat your architectural thesis as a comprehensive research and design project. Start identifying your area of interest early, conduct thorough literature reviews, define a clear problem statement, and develop an innovative design solution. Engage with faculty mentors regularly for guidance.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research papers, COA thesis guidelines, Research management software, Advanced design software
Career Connection
A well-executed thesis demonstrates independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and advanced design skills, which are highly valued by employers and for pursuing higher education in specialized architectural fields.
Network with Professionals and Participate in Competitions- (Semester 6-8)
Attend architectural conferences, seminars, and workshops. Join student chapters of professional bodies like IIA (Indian Institute of Architects) or INTACH. Actively participate in national and international design competitions to test your skills, gain recognition, and expand your professional network.
Tools & Resources
Event calendars of IIA, COA, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), Competition websites (ArchDaily, Rethinking The Future), Portfolio platforms
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities and mentorship within the Indian architectural fraternity. Competition wins enhance your portfolio and demonstrate your competitive edge in the industry.
Cultivate Sustainability and Ethical Practice- (Semester 6-8)
Deepen your understanding of sustainable architecture principles, green building certifications (e.g., LEED, GRIHA), and the ethical responsibilities of an architect. Incorporate these principles into all design projects, ensuring a holistic and responsible approach to the built environment.
Tools & Resources
GRIHA manual, IGBC guidelines, Relevant academic journals, Case studies of sustainable buildings in India, COA Code of Conduct
Career Connection
With increasing demand for sustainable practices in India, this knowledge makes you a highly desirable professional for eco-conscious firms and projects, aligning with the nation''''s environmental goals and green building initiatives.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per the norms set by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, AICTE and other regulatory bodies for admission through JEE(Main) Examination.
Duration: 5 years / 10 semesters
Credits: 200 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% for theory courses, 100% for Lab/Studio/Project/Dissertation, External: 60% for theory courses, 0% for Lab/Studio/Project/Dissertation
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS1101 | Communication Skill | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of communication, Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking skills, Presentation skills, Non-verbal communication, Public speaking |
| BA1101 | Basic Design & Visual Arts-I | Studio | 4 | Elements of Design, Principles of Design, Visual perception, Composition techniques, Color theory basics |
| BA1102 | Architectural Drawing-I | Studio | 4 | Basic drafting tools and techniques, Geometrical constructions, Orthographic projections, Isometric and axonometric drawings, Perspective basics |
| BA1103 | Building Materials-I | Core | 3 | Properties of building materials, Bricks and masonry, Stones, Cement, sand, aggregates, Mortar and concrete |
| BA1104 | Building Construction-I | Core | 3 | Foundations, Load-bearing walls, Masonry construction, Doors and windows, Basic roof types |
| BA1105 | Architectural History-I | Core | 3 | Prehistoric architecture, Ancient Egyptian architecture, Mesopotamian architecture, Indus Valley Civilization, Early Indian architecture |
| BA1106 | Computer Application-I | Lab | 1 | Introduction to operating systems, Word processing software, Spreadsheet applications, Presentation tools, Internet and basic file management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH1201 | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution (air, water, noise), Waste management, Renewable energy sources, Sustainable development concepts |
| BA1201 | Basic Design & Visual Arts-II | Studio | 4 | Advanced composition, Form and space studies, Visual communication techniques, Art appreciation, Crafts and materials exploration |
| BA1202 | Architectural Drawing-II | Studio | 4 | Advanced perspective drawing, Sciography and shadows, Measured drawing techniques, Architectural graphics, Presentation drawing methods |
| BA1203 | Building Materials-II | Core | 3 | Timber and wood products, Glass and glazing, Metals (ferrous and non-ferrous), Plastics and polymers, Paints, varnishes, and finishes |
| BA1204 | Building Construction-II | Core | 3 | Floors and flooring systems, Staircases and ramps, Ceilings, Damp proofing, Thermal insulation principles |
| BA1205 | Architectural History-II | Core | 3 | Classical Greek architecture, Roman architecture, Early Christian and Byzantine architecture, Islamic architecture (India and Middle East), Buddhist and Hindu temple architecture |
| BA1206 | Computer Application-II | Lab | 1 | Introduction to CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), 2D drafting commands, Layer management, Dimensioning and annotations, Plotting and publishing drawings |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA2301 | Mathematics-III (Numerical Methods & Statistics) | Core | 3 | Numerical solution of equations, Interpolation and extrapolation, Regression analysis, Probability distributions, Hypothesis testing |
| BA2301 | Architectural Design-I | Studio | 6 | Design process methodology, Site analysis and response, Space planning and functional zoning, Anthropometry and ergonomics, Small-scale architectural projects |
| BA2302 | Building Construction-III | Core | 3 | Reinforced Concrete (RC) construction, RC beam and slab details, Formwork systems, Pre-stressed concrete basics, Concrete detailing |
| BA2303 | Structure-I | Core | 3 | Engineering mechanics fundamentals, Forces, moments, and equilibrium, Stress, strain, and elasticity, Properties of structural materials, Analysis of simple structural systems |
| BA2304 | Architectural History-III | Core | 3 | Medieval European architecture (Romanesque, Gothic), Renaissance architecture, Baroque and Rococo architecture, Mughal architecture in India, Colonial architecture in India |
| BA2305 | Surveying & Leveling | Lab | 3 | Principles of surveying, Chain and tape surveying, Compass and plane table surveying, Levelling and contouring, Theodolite and total station basics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE2401 | Building Services-I (Electrical & Mechanical) | Core | 3 | Basic electrical circuits and systems, Wiring and lighting design, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) basics, Vertical transportation systems (lifts, escalators), Fire detection and alarm systems |
| BA2401 | Architectural Design-II | Studio | 6 | Medium-scale building design projects, Institutional buildings (e.g., schools, health centers), Residential complexes, Urban site planning, Building codes and regulations integration |
| BA2402 | Building Construction-IV | Core | 3 | Steel structures and connections, Trusses and frames, Prefabricated construction methods, Advanced roofing systems, Glazing and curtain walls |
| BA2403 | Structure-II | Core | 3 | Analysis of beams (shear force, bending moment), Deflection of beams, Column analysis and design basics, Slab analysis and design basics, Introduction to framed structures |
| BA2404 | Architectural History-IV | Core | 3 | Industrial Revolution architecture, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, Early Modern architecture, Bauhaus and International Style, Post-Independence Indian architecture |
| BA2405 | Climatology | Lab | 3 | Climatic elements and comfort conditions, Solar geometry and radiation, Wind patterns and ventilation, Microclimate modification, Climatic zones of India and architectural responses |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN3501 | Urban Ecology | Core | 3 | Urban ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental impacts of urbanization, Green infrastructure and urban forestry, Waste and water management in cities, Ecological principles in urban planning |
| BA3501 | Architectural Design-III | Studio | 7 | Complex building typologies (e.g., commercial, public), Mixed-use developments, Contextual design and urban infill, Sustainable design principles integration, Advanced presentation techniques |
| BA3502 | Building Construction-V | Core | 3 | Advanced cladding systems, Facade engineering, Specialized foundations, Waterproofing and damp proofing systems, Formwork for complex concrete structures |
| BA3503 | Structure-III | Core | 3 | Analysis of RC framed structures, Design of foundations (isolated, combined, raft), Retaining walls, Introduction to earthquake resistant design, Load distribution in multi-story buildings |
| BA3504 | Architectural History-V | Core | 3 | Post-modern architecture, Deconstructivism and parametric design, Regionalism and critical regionalism, Contemporary global architecture, Architectural theory and criticism |
| BA3505 | Acoustics | Lab | 3 | Fundamentals of sound and noise, Sound absorption and insulation, Reverberation time and control, Room acoustics and auditorium design, Noise control in buildings |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TR3601 | Basic Town Planning | Core | 3 | History and evolution of town planning, Planning theories and principles, Land use planning and zoning, Master plans and development plans, Urbanization trends in India |
| BA3601 | Architectural Design-IV | Studio | 7 | Large-scale urban design projects, Urban regeneration and conservation, Public spaces and street design, Campus planning and institutional master planning, Infrastructure integration in urban design |
| BA3602 | Building Construction-VI | Core | 3 | Green building materials and techniques, Sustainable construction practices, Industrialized building systems, Advanced waterproofing and sealants, Repair and rehabilitation of buildings |
| BA3603 | Structure-IV | Core | 3 | High-rise structural systems, Wind loads on tall buildings, Shear walls and core walls, Long span structures (shells, domes, space frames), Pre-engineered buildings |
| BA3604 | Professional Practice-I | Core | 3 | Role and responsibilities of an architect, Architects Act and COA regulations, Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Architectural ethics and professional conduct, Types of contracts and agreements |
| BA3605 | Landscape Architecture | Lab | 3 | Elements and principles of landscape design, Site analysis for landscape, Hardscape and softscape design, Water features and lighting in landscape, Urban parks and open spaces |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA4701 | Architectural Design-V | Studio | 8 | Advanced architectural problems with complex briefs, Design research methodologies, Contextual sensitivity and adaptive reuse, Integration of advanced technologies and materials, Urban scale design intervention |
| BA4702 | Building Services-II (Water Supply & Sanitation) | Core | 3 | Sources of water and water treatment, Water distribution systems in buildings, Plumbing systems and fixtures, Drainage and sewage systems, Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling |
| BA4703 | Specifications & Quantity Survey | Core | 3 | Types of specifications, Specification writing for various building components, Methods of measurement for quantity surveying, Rate analysis for construction items, Preparation of Bill of Quantities (BOQ) |
| BA4704 | Housing | Core | 3 | Housing typologies and densities, Housing policies and programs in India, Affordable housing challenges, Urban and rural housing issues, Slum rehabilitation and upgrading |
| BA4705 | Elective-I | Elective | 3 | Advanced building performance analysis, Interior design principles and practices, Architectural conservation techniques, Advanced landscape detailing, Construction project planning and scheduling |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA4801 | Architectural Design-VI | Studio | 8 | Large-scale urban master planning, Regional planning strategies, Infrastructure-integrated urban design, Visionary and speculative architectural projects, Participatory design approaches |
| BA4802 | Building Services-III (Fire Safety & Building Management Systems) | Core | 3 | Fire safety regulations and codes, Fire detection and suppression systems, Egress and emergency planning, Smoke control systems, Building Management Systems (BMS) and smart buildings |
| BA4803 | Professional Practice-II | Core | 3 | Contract administration and management, Arbitration and conciliation in construction, Architectural valuation methods, Feasibility studies for architectural projects, Project delivery methods and risk management |
| BA4804 | Sustainable Architecture | Core | 3 | Green building concepts and principles, Energy efficiency in buildings, Passive design strategies, Renewable energy integration (solar, wind), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of materials |
| BA4805 | Elective-II | Elective | 3 | Advanced structural systems (e.g., fabric, cable structures), Environmental graphics and signage design, Urban conservation and heritage management, Digital fabrication in architecture, Infrastructure planning and design |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA5901 | Architectural Thesis (Pre-Thesis/Dissertation) | Project | 10 | Research methodology in architecture, Literature review and case studies, Problem identification and analysis, Site selection and analysis, Development of design brief and program |
| BA5902 | Elective-III | Elective | 3 | Disaster resistant architecture, Human settlements planning and design, Heritage site management and interpretation, Advanced CAD and Building Information Modeling (BIM), Real estate development and marketing |
| BA5903 | Elective-IV | Elective | 3 | Vernacular architecture and local technologies, Urban landscape ecology, Zero energy buildings and net-zero design, Advanced architectural theory, Smart cities and urban technology |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA5001 | Architectural Thesis (Design & Report) | Project | 15 | Comprehensive architectural design development, Site integration and master plan, Structural and building services integration, Detailed design and drawing package, Thesis report writing and presentation |
| BA5002 | Internship/Practical Training | Internship | 5 | Professional office procedures, Project documentation and detailing, Site supervision and management, Client interaction and communication, Architectural practice management |




