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B-ARCH in Architecture Planning And Design at Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Architecture, Planning and Design at Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi Varanasi?
This Architecture, Planning and Design program at Indian Institute of Technology Banaras Hindu University Varanasi focuses on an integrated approach to design, technology, and humanities. It prepares students for a multifaceted career in architecture and allied fields, emphasizing sustainable practices and culturally sensitive design within the dynamic Indian context. The program differentiates itself by blending rigorous engineering principles with creative design thinking. India''''s rapid urbanization fuels a significant demand for skilled architects.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative fresh graduates seeking entry into the architecture and construction industry, particularly those with a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and artistic aptitude. It also attracts individuals passionate about urban development, sustainable design, and preserving cultural heritage. Aspiring architects, urban planners, and designers who wish to contribute to India''''s infrastructure growth and smart city initiatives will find this program highly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths as architects, urban designers, conservation architects, landscape architects, or project managers in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs annually, growing significantly with experience to INR 10-25+ lakhs. Growth trajectories in Indian companies often lead to leadership roles in design, project management, or entrepreneurial ventures. The curriculum aligns with Council of Architecture (CoA) requirements for professional registration.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Architectural Graphics and Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to mastering freehand sketching, orthographic projections, and basic CAD software. Regularly practice observational drawing and understanding fundamental design principles. Form study groups to discuss and critique initial design concepts, strengthening your visual communication and spatial reasoning.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, drafting tools, AutoCAD (student version), online tutorials for basic 2D drafting, peer review sessions
Career Connection
Strong graphic skills are foundational for any architectural role, enabling clear communication of design ideas to clients and colleagues, crucial for securing internships and early career success.
Build a Strong Understanding of Materials and Construction- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in site visits and material workshops to understand the properties and application of basic building materials like brick, concrete, and timber. Document observations with sketches and notes. Understand how materials influence structural integrity and aesthetic outcomes, enhancing your practical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Local construction sites, material sample libraries, architectural magazines, technical manuals, department workshops
Career Connection
A solid grasp of construction allows for practical, buildable designs and effective communication with contractors, essential for successful project execution and site management roles in India.
Cultivate Historical and Theoretical Context- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbook learning, explore architectural history through case studies, documentaries, and virtual tours of significant buildings. Discuss theoretical concepts with peers and faculty, linking historical precedents to contemporary design challenges. This broadens your design vocabulary and critical thinking abilities.
Tools & Resources
Online architectural archives, art history museums (virtual tours), architectural history books, design blogs, departmental seminars
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation informs sophisticated design decisions, enables effective design justification, and is highly valued in design leadership and academic roles within the architectural profession.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Intensive Design Studio Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Treat design studios as real-world projects, thoroughly researching site context, user needs, and relevant building codes. Seek diverse feedback from faculty and guest critics, and iterate designs based on constructive criticism. Focus on developing a strong conceptual narrative and technical resolution for your proposals.
Tools & Resources
Rhino, SketchUp, Revit (student versions), physical model making tools, design software tutorials, architectural journals
Career Connection
Studio projects form the core of your portfolio, directly showcasing your design process and problem-solving abilities, which are critical for securing placements and competitive internships in design firms.
Develop Proficiency in Building Services and Structures- (Semester 3-5)
Pay close attention to courses on structural mechanics, RCC design, and building services (HVAC, plumbing, electrical). Understand how these systems integrate with architectural design. Attempt to incorporate these considerations into your studio projects from an early stage, fostering a holistic design approach.
Tools & Resources
Structural design software (e.g., Staad.Pro basic), building services handbooks, case studies of integrated building systems, guest lectures from structural and MEP consultants
Career Connection
Technical competence is highly valued by firms, enabling you to design efficient and compliant buildings. This skill set opens doors to roles in design development and technical coordination, crucial in India''''s complex construction environment.
Explore and Document Indian Architectural Heritage- (Semester 3-5)
Participate in architectural documentation workshops and field trips to historical sites across India. Learn surveying, sketching, and measured drawing techniques to record traditional building methods and details. This experience provides a deep understanding of indigenous design principles and conservation practices.
Tools & Resources
Measuring tapes, laser distance meters, sketch pads, camera, heritage documentation guidelines, local craftspeople interaction
Career Connection
Specialization in heritage conservation or culturally sensitive modern design is a growing field in India, offering unique career opportunities in government bodies, NGOs, and specialized firms focused on cultural preservation.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Internship Experience- (Semester 8 (Full semester))
Secure a meaningful internship with a reputable architectural firm during the 8th semester. Actively participate in all phases of a project, from conceptualization to site supervision. Network with professionals and understand the daily operations of an architectural practice in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for networking, professional portfolio, cover letter, departmental placement cell, industry contacts
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for practical exposure, professional networking, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations, significantly enhancing placement prospects and job readiness.
Focus on Thesis Research and Development- (Semester 7-9)
Select a thesis topic that aligns with your career aspirations and current industry trends, especially within the Indian context (e.g., affordable housing, smart cities, disaster resilience). Conduct thorough research, develop innovative design solutions, and prepare a compelling presentation and detailed documentation.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, research journals, interview subjects, survey tools, advanced rendering software, laser cutters for models, presentation software
Career Connection
A well-executed thesis demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research and deliver a comprehensive design project, a key differentiator for higher studies or specialized roles within the architectural and planning sectors.
Build a Strong Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 9-10)
Continuously refine your digital and physical portfolios, showcasing your best design projects, technical drawings, and creative work. Attend workshops on portfolio building and interview skills. Actively participate in conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with industry leaders and potential employers.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (Behance, Issuu), print services for physical portfolio, professional events, alumni network, career fairs
Career Connection
A polished portfolio and strong professional network are indispensable for successful job applications and career advancement in the competitive architectural landscape, opening doors to diverse opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- JEE Advanced qualified, 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics with minimum 75% marks (or top 20 percentile), and NATA or JEE Main Paper 2 score.
Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years
Credits: 200 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR101 | Architectural Design Studio I | Core | 3 | Basic Design principles, Elements of design, Composition, Space, Form, Scale, Proportion, Architectural vocabulary |
| AR102 | Building Materials and Construction I | Core | 3 | Introduction to building materials, Brick, Stone, Cement, Mortar, Concrete and its properties, Basic construction techniques, Foundation systems |
| AR103 | Architectural Graphics I | Core | 2 | Orthographic projections, Isometric and Axonometric views, Freehand drawing and sketching, Architectural representation techniques, Rendering basics |
| AR104 | History of Architecture I | Core | 3 | Ancient civilizations architecture, Indus Valley and Egyptian, Greek and Roman architecture, Early Indian architecture, Architectural evolution |
| AR105 | Theory of Architecture I | Core | 3 | Principles of architectural composition, Elements of form and space, Order, Balance, Harmony, Human scale and proportion, Perception of space |
| HS101 | Professional Communication | Core | 2 | Written communication skills, Oral presentation techniques, Technical report writing, Effective communication strategies, Interpersonal communication |
| CS101 | Introduction to Computers | Core | 1 | Computer basics and hardware, Operating systems, Office productivity software, Internet and email usage, Basic architectural software overview |
| PH101 | Physics I | Core | 4 | Mechanics and properties of matter, Optics and wave phenomena, Thermodynamics principles, Electromagnetism basics, Acoustics fundamentals |
| MA101 | Mathematics I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Matrices and Determinants, Vector Algebra, Coordinate Geometry |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR201 | Architectural Design Studio II | Core | 3 | Small scale residential design, Site analysis and response, Functional planning, Spatial organization and flow, User requirements integration |
| AR202 | Building Materials and Construction II | Core | 3 | Timber and wood construction, Steel and its applications, Glass and glazing systems, Plastics in construction, Roofing materials and systems |
| AR203 | Architectural Graphics II | Core | 2 | Perspective drawing techniques, Advanced rendering methods, Shadow casting and light effects, Digital drawing tools, Architectural presentation drawings |
| AR204 | History of Architecture II | Core | 3 | Early Christian and Byzantine architecture, Islamic architecture, Gothic architecture, Renaissance period, Mughal architecture in India |
| AR205 | Theory of Architecture II | Core | 3 | Modern architectural theories, Regionalism and its interpretations, Post-modernism debates, Deconstructivism in architecture, Sustainability in theory |
| CE101 | Mechanics of Structures I | Core | 4 | Statics and equilibrium, Stress and Strain analysis, Bending moments and Shear forces, Analysis of trusses and frames, Properties of structural materials |
| ES101 | Environmental Science | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution, Sustainable development goals, Renewable energy resources, Environmental impact assessment |
| MA201 | Mathematics II | Core | 4 | Vector Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics basics, Numerical methods introduction |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR301 | Architectural Design Studio III | Core | 4 | Medium scale building design, Urban context integration, Climatic responsive design, Sustainable design principles, Space programming and circulation |
| AR302 | Building Materials and Construction III | Core | 3 | Pre-fabricated construction systems, Green building materials, Building finishes and detailing, Waterproofing and damp proofing, Modular construction |
| AR303 | Climatology | Core | 3 | Climate zones and factors, Solar geometry and shading, Wind patterns and ventilation, Thermal comfort principles, Passive cooling strategies |
| AR304 | History of Architecture III | Core | 3 | Baroque and Rococo architecture, Neoclassical period, Industrial Revolution impacts, Colonial architecture in India, Art Nouveau and Art Deco |
| AR305 | Surveying and Leveling | Core | 2 | Introduction to surveying instruments, Chain and Compass surveying, Plane table surveying, Leveling techniques, Contouring and topographical maps |
| AR306 | Structural Mechanics | Core | 4 | Indeterminate structures analysis, Concept of flexibility and stiffness, Introduction to RCC elements, Load transfer mechanisms, Stability of structures |
| CE201 | Building Services I | Core | 3 | Water supply systems, Sanitation and drainage design, Solid waste management, Rainwater harvesting systems, Waste water treatment basics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR401 | Architectural Design Studio IV | Core | 4 | Institutional building design, Public spaces and their design, Accessibility standards (barrier-free), Building codes and regulations, Universal design principles |
| AR402 | Building Materials and Construction IV | Core | 3 | Advanced concrete technology, Steel structures fabrication, Glass facades and systems, Membrane and shell structures, Deep foundation systems |
| AR403 | Site Planning | Core | 2 | Comprehensive site analysis, Topography and contour modification, Vegetation and microclimate, Site circulation and parking, Grading and drainage plans |
| AR404 | History of Architecture IV | Core | 3 | Modern architecture movements, Bauhaus and International Style, Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright, Early 20th-century architects, Impact of technology on architecture |
| AR405 | Acoustics | Core | 3 | Properties of sound and noise, Noise control and insulation, Room acoustics principles, Auditorium and theatre design, Reverberation time calculation |
| AR406 | RCC Design | Core | 4 | Reinforced concrete fundamentals, Limit state design method, Design of beams and columns, Design of slabs and footings, Shear and bond design |
| CE202 | Building Services II | Core | 3 | Electrical systems and wiring, Lighting design principles, Fire safety systems and egress, Vertical transportation (lifts, escalators), HVAC systems and ventilation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR501 | Architectural Design Studio V | Core | 5 | Urban design projects, Mixed-use developments, Housing complex design, Master planning principles, Public realm design |
| AR502 | Building Materials and Construction V | Core | 3 | Sustainable construction practices, Waste management in construction, Retrofitting existing buildings, Conservation and restoration techniques, Advanced building envelopes |
| AR503 | Landscape Architecture | Core | 3 | Principles of landscape design, Hardscape and softscape elements, Water features and their design, Planting design and ecology, Urban forestry and open spaces |
| AR504 | History of Architecture V | Core | 3 | Contemporary architecture trends, Critical Regionalism in practice, Sustainability in modern architecture, Indian contemporary architecture, Global architectural movements |
| AR505 | Computer Aided Design | Core | 2 | Advanced CAD software usage, 3D modeling techniques, Rendering and visualization, Architectural animation basics, Introduction to Building Information Modeling (BIM) |
| AR506 | Steel Design | Core | 4 | Properties of structural steel, Limit state design of steel members, Design of steel connections, Steel trusses and frames, Plate girders and columns |
| HS301 | Humanities Elective | Elective | 3 | Selected topics in social sciences, Humanities and arts, Philosophical concepts, Economics or sociology, Literature and culture |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR601 | Architectural Design Studio VI | Core | 5 | Large scale public building design, Complex structural integration, High-rise building design, Smart building technologies, Parametric design principles |
| AR602 | Professional Practice I | Core | 3 | Role and responsibilities of an architect, Council of Architecture (CoA) regulations, Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Professional ethics and conduct, Tendering and contract administration |
| AR603 | Urban Planning and Design | Core | 3 | Theories of urban planning, City development plans (CDP), Zoning regulations and bylaws, Urban renewal and regeneration, Sustainable urbanism concepts |
| AR604 | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Advanced building materials, Heritage conservation, Smart city infrastructure, Interior design concepts, Housing policies |
| AR605 | Estimation and Costing | Core | 3 | Quantity surveying principles, Cost analysis and control, Specifications writing, Rate analysis of construction items, Project budgeting and cash flow |
| AR606 | Building Management | Core | 3 | Facilities management, Construction project management, Quality control in construction, Safety management on site, Building maintenance strategies |
| HS302 | Humanities Elective | Elective | 3 | Selected topics in social sciences, Psychology and behavior, Political science, Art history and criticism, Cross-cultural studies |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR701 | Architectural Design Studio VII | Core | 5 | Thesis project initiation, Research methodology application, Program development for complex projects, Site selection and analysis, Conceptual design development |
| AR702 | Professional Practice II | Core | 3 | Architectural law and legal aspects, Arbitration and dispute resolution, Project management software usage, Financial management for architects, Entrepreneurship in architecture |
| AR703 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research design and types, Data collection methods (qualitative/quantitative), Statistical analysis basics, Thesis writing and structuring, Research ethics and plagiarism |
| AR704 | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Urban housing strategies, Disaster resistant architecture, Digital fabrication in design, Heritage conservation planning, Advanced landscape techniques |
| AR705 | Working Drawing and Detailing | Core | 2 | Advanced architectural detailing, Specification writing for materials, Shop drawings and their importance, Construction documents preparation, Building systems integration details |
| AR706 | Architectural Criticism and Theory | Core | 3 | Critical analysis of architectural works, Contemporary architectural discourse, Modern and post-modern debates, Role of theory in practice, Semiotics of architecture |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR801 | Internship | Project | 10 | Practical experience in architectural firms, Project execution and management, Site supervision and coordination, Client interaction and communication, Professional documentation and reporting |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR901 | Architectural Design Thesis | Project | 10 | Comprehensive architectural project, Problem identification and analysis, Advanced design development, Technical resolution and detailing, Final presentation and viva voce |
| AR902 | Elective III | Elective | 3 | Sustainable urban development, Advanced BIM applications, Housing for special needs, Interior design specialization, Smart building technologies |
| AR903 | Interior Design | Core | 3 | Principles of interior design, Space planning and furniture layouts, Material selection and finishes, Lighting design in interiors, Ergonomics and user comfort |
| AR904 | Urban Housing | Core | 3 | Housing typologies and forms, Affordability and housing policies, Mass housing schemes, Slum rehabilitation strategies, Sustainable housing solutions |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR1001 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Project | 6 | Overall assessment of architectural knowledge, Review of academic and design portfolio, Oral examination on core subjects, Demonstration of conceptual understanding, Critical thinking and communication skills |
| AR1002 | Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Urban conservation techniques, Resilient city planning, Advanced construction economics, Architectural journalism, Digital heritage documentation |
