

B-ARCH in General at Jadavpur University


Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is GENERAL at Jadavpur University Kolkata?
This B.Arch program at Jadavpur University focuses on holistic architectural education, integrating design innovation with technical expertise and cultural sensitivity. It addresses the evolving demands of the Indian built environment, emphasizing sustainable practices, urban development, and heritage preservation to produce socially responsible architects capable of shaping future landscapes and communities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative high school graduates with a strong aptitude for drawing, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning, seeking to make an impact on urban and rural landscapes. It also suits individuals passionate about cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and community-centric design in the Indian context, preparing them for a diverse range of architectural challenges and opportunities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as design architects, urban planners, conservation architects, or project managers in leading firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. Opportunities exist in architectural consultancies, government bodies, real estate development, and academia, with potential for independent professional practice.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Design & Drawing Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to mastering freehand sketching, architectural graphics, and basic design principles. Regularly practice model making and explore different rendering techniques beyond studio hours. Engage in observational drawing of local architecture and natural forms to hone visual and representational skills.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Model-making tools, AutoCAD tutorials, Architectural magazines, Local architectural walks
Career Connection
A strong foundational skill set in drawing and design is crucial for successful architectural presentations, concept articulation, and effective communication with clients and collaborators throughout one''''s career, establishing a robust base for future advanced design.
Master Basic Building Materials & Construction- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond classroom learning by visiting local construction sites, interacting with contractors and masons, and observing different building processes firsthand. Create detailed construction sketches and material boards to understand their properties, assembly, and applications in real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Construction manuals, Material samples, Site visits, YouTube channels on construction techniques, Discussions with experienced professionals
Career Connection
A deep understanding of materials and construction methods ensures practical and buildable designs, minimizes errors, and makes one a valuable asset to any project team, especially in the diverse and evolving Indian construction sector, fostering realistic design solutions.
Develop Critical Thinking & Research Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in discussions in History of Architecture and Theory of Structures classes. Read beyond prescribed texts, question design assumptions, and analyze architectural precedents critically. Start building a personal archive of architectural case studies to inform future design decisions and theoretical understanding.
Tools & Resources
University library, Online architectural journals, Academic databases, Architectural history books, Design blogs
Career Connection
Cultivating critical thinking skills early on is vital for problem-solving complex design challenges, developing innovative and contextually appropriate solutions, and articulating design philosophies effectively in professional practice and academic pursuits.
Intermediate Stage
Integrate CAD and 3D Modeling Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Consistently apply CAD software for all design projects, ensuring precision and efficiency in documentation. Explore advanced 3D modeling and rendering software (e.g., SketchUp, Revit, 3ds Max) independently to visualize and present complex designs with photorealistic quality.
Tools & Resources
Official software licenses (if provided by JU), Online tutorials (e.g., Udemy, YouTube), Practice assignments, Peer learning groups
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools is non-negotiable in modern architectural practice, enhancing design speed, collaboration, and client communication. This directly impacts employability and efficiency in project execution within Indian firms and global practices.
Engage with Urban & Environmental Issues- (Semester 3-5)
Participate in workshops, seminars, and local community projects related to urban planning, sustainable design, and environmental impact. Conduct small-scale research on local urban challenges and propose design interventions in studio projects, fostering a sense of social responsibility.
Tools & Resources
Local municipal reports, NGOs focusing on urban development/environment, Student organizations, Guest lectures by urban planners
Career Connection
Understanding urban dynamics and sustainable practices is critical for architects in India, given rapid urbanization and climate challenges. This prepares students for specialized roles in urban design, planning, and green architecture, contributing to sustainable development.
Seek Internships and Site Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or shadowing opportunities with local architects or construction companies during semester breaks. This provides invaluable real-world exposure to project execution, site challenges, and professional environments, bridging academic learning with practical experience.
Tools & Resources
Department''''s placement cell, Professional networks (e.g., LinkedIn), Architectural firm websites, Local contractor contacts
Career Connection
Early industry exposure builds practical skills, helps identify specific areas of interest, strengthens professional networks, and significantly boosts confidence and resume value for future placements, making students industry-ready.
Advanced Stage
Master Comprehensive Project Integration- (Semester 6-8)
For major design projects, focus on integrating all aspects – structure, services, sustainability, cost, and detailing – into a cohesive and buildable design solution. Simulate real-world project scenarios, including client presentations and regulatory compliance, to develop holistic project understanding.
Tools & Resources
BIM software (Revit, ArchiCAD), Collaboration tools, Guest critics from industry, Detailed case studies of integrated projects
Career Connection
The ability to integrate complex building systems and design parameters is highly valued in senior architectural roles and essential for leading projects. This prepares students for diverse challenges in large-scale Indian and international projects, fostering leadership skills.
Prepare for Professional Practice & Licensure- (Semester 6-8)
Thoroughly study the Council of Architecture (COA) guidelines, Architects Act, and professional ethics. Participate in mock interviews and portfolio reviews. Use the mandatory practical training (internship) period to gain maximum exposure to office management, contract administration, and site supervision.
Tools & Resources
COA website, Professional practice textbooks, Senior architects as mentors, Mock interviews arranged by department, Professional workshops
Career Connection
A strong understanding of professional practice is essential for obtaining licensure, establishing independent practice, and navigating the legal and ethical landscape of the architectural profession in India, ensuring compliance and responsible practice.
Develop a Specialized Thesis & Strong Portfolio- (Semester 9-10)
Choose a thesis topic that aligns with personal interests and current industry needs, conducting thorough research and developing an innovative design solution. Curate a professional portfolio showcasing the best work across all semesters, tailored specifically for target job applications and further academic pursuits.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, Academic advisors, Portfolio design software, Online portfolio platforms (e.g., Behance, Issuu), Career counseling
Career Connection
A well-researched thesis demonstrates intellectual rigor and specialized problem-solving abilities, while a compelling portfolio is the primary tool for securing desirable placements and showcasing unique design capabilities to potential employers and clients.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks. Must have a valid NATA score.
Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years
Credits: 230 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HU101 | Language & Communication | Core | 3 | Grammar and Syntax, Vocabulary Building, Comprehension and Precis Writing, Report Writing Techniques, Oral Presentation Skills |
| AR101 | Architectural Design-I | Core Studio | 4 | Basic Design Elements, Principles of Composition, Form and Space Relationships, Introduction to Design Process, Model Making and Representation |
| AR102 | Basic Design & Graphics | Core Studio | 4 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric and Axonometric Drawings, Perspective Drawing Fundamentals, Freehand Sketching and Rendering, Architectural Drafting Tools |
| AR103 | Building Materials-I | Core | 2 | Bricks and Masonry Units, Stone and its Applications, Cement and Lime, Aggregates and Mortars, Basic Material Properties |
| AR104 | Building Construction-I | Core Lab | 2 | Brick Masonry Techniques, Stone Masonry Construction, Types of Foundations, Load-Bearing Walls, Arches and Lintels |
| AR105 | History of Architecture-I | Core | 2 | Pre-historic Architecture, Ancient Egyptian Architecture, Mesopotamian Architecture, Indus Valley Civilization, Early Settlements and Cultures |
| MA101 | Mathematics-I (Applied Mathematics) | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Analytical Geometry, Matrices and Determinants, Vector Algebra |
| PS101 | Physics | Core | 3 | Optics and Light, Acoustics in Buildings, Thermodynamics Principles, Mechanics of Solids, Basic Electricity and Magnetism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HU201 | Sociology | Core | 2 | Concept of Society and Culture, Urbanization and Social Change, Social Institutions, Community Planning, Sociology of Architecture |
| AR201 | Architectural Design-II | Core Studio | 5 | Small Scale Design Projects, Human Dimensions and Ergonomics, Site Analysis and Contextual Design, Function and Form Relationships, Design Presentation Techniques |
| AR202 | Architectural Graphics-II | Core Studio | 3 | Advanced Perspective Drawing, Axonometric and Oblique Projections, Shadows and Shades in Architectural Drawing, Rendering Techniques (manual), Concept Sketching |
| AR203 | Building Materials-II | Core | 2 | Timber and Wood Products, Glass and Glazing, Metals (Steel, Aluminum, Copper), Plastics and Composites, Paints, Varnishes, and Adhesives |
| AR204 | Building Construction-II | Core Lab | 2 | Doors and Windows Construction, Roofing Systems and Types, Floor Finishes and Construction, Staircases Design and Detailing, Plastering and Painting |
| AR205 | History of Architecture-II | Core | 2 | Classical Greek Architecture, Roman Architecture, Early Christian and Byzantine Architecture, Islamic Architecture, Indian Temple Architecture (Early Dynasties) |
| AR206 | Climatology | Core | 2 | Climate Zones and Characteristics, Solar Geometry and Sun Path, Wind Patterns and Ventilation, Thermal Comfort in Buildings, Passive Design Strategies |
| CE201 | Theory of Structures-I | Core | 5 | Force Systems and Equilibrium, Stress and Strain Concepts, Bending Moment and Shear Force Diagrams, Properties of Sections, Simple Bending Theory |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR301 | Architectural Design-III | Core Studio | 5 | Medium Scale Design Projects, Program Analysis and Space Planning, Contextual Design Considerations, Materiality in Design, Introduction to Structural Integration |
| AR302 | Architectural Drawing-I (CAD) | Core Lab | 3 | Introduction to AutoCAD Interface, 2D Drafting and Drawing Commands, Layers, Blocks, and X-references, Dimensioning and Text Styles, Plotting and File Management |
| AR303 | Building Materials-III | Core | 2 | Concrete Technology, Steel as a Building Material, New and Emerging Materials, Prefabricated Building Components, Insulation Materials |
| AR304 | Building Construction-III | Core Lab | 2 | Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) Construction, Steel Frame Construction, Pre-stressed Concrete Basics, Shell Structures and Domes, Tensile Structures |
| AR305 | History of Architecture-III | Core | 2 | Romanesque Architecture, Gothic Architecture, Renaissance Architecture, Baroque and Rococo Styles, Indian Mughal Architecture |
| AR306 | Surveying & Leveling | Core Lab | 2 | Chain Surveying, Compass Surveying, Plane Table Surveying, Leveling and Contouring, Total Station Introduction |
| CE301 | Theory of Structures-II | Core | 5 | Deflection of Beams, Analysis of Trusses, Arches and Cables, Columns and Struts, Introduction to Shear Centre |
| AR307 | Art Appreciation | Core | 2 | Elements of Art and Design, Aesthetics and Criticism, History of Western Art, Indian Art Forms, Modern Art Movements |
| EN301 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources Management, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Impact Assessment |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR401 | Architectural Design-IV | Core Studio | 5 | Complex Building Typologies, Site Planning and Massing, Urban Context and Infill Design, Accessibility and Barrier-Free Design, Building Codes and Regulations |
| AR402 | Architectural Drawing-II (Advanced CAD) | Core Lab | 3 | 3D Modeling in CAD, Basic Rendering Techniques, Walkthrough and Animation Basics, Introduction to BIM (Building Information Modeling), Advanced Presentation Graphics |
| AR403 | Building Services-I | Core | 2 | Water Supply Systems, Drainage and Sanitation, Plumbing Systems and Fixtures, Solid Waste Management, Rainwater Harvesting |
| AR404 | Building Construction-IV | Core Lab | 2 | Advanced Finishes (Floors, Walls, Ceilings), Specialized Roofing Systems, False Ceilings and Partitions, Acoustic and Thermal Insulation Details, Waterproofing Techniques |
| AR405 | History of Architecture-IV | Core | 2 | Colonial Architecture in India, Indian Vernacular Architecture, Modernism in Architecture, Post-Modernism and Contemporary Trends, Architectural Theory and Criticism |
| AR406 | Computer Graphics & Animation | Core Lab | 2 | Introduction to Graphic Design Software (Photoshop, Illustrator), Image Editing and Manipulation, Principles of Animation, Digital Portfolio Creation, 2D and 3D Visualizations |
| CE401 | Theory of Structures-III | Core | 5 | Indeterminate Structures Analysis, Moment Distribution Method, Slope Deflection Method, Introduction to Plastic Analysis, Matrix Methods of Structural Analysis |
| AR407 | Principles of Urban Design | Core | 2 | Urban Form and Structure, Public Spaces and Street Design, Urban Morphology and Typology, Master Planning Concepts, Theories of City Planning |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR501 | Architectural Design-V | Core Studio | 6 | Large Scale Institutional Buildings, Urban Infill and Redevelopment, Sustainable and Green Building Design, Advanced Detailing and Integration, Multi-functional Complexes |
| AR502 | Interior Design | Core Studio | 3 | Interior Space Planning, Furniture Design and Layout, Lighting Design Principles, Color Theory and Material Palettes, Interior Finishes and Details |
| AR503 | Building Services-II | Core | 2 | Electrical Systems in Buildings, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Fire Safety and Protection Systems, Lifts, Escalators, and Ramps, Building Management Systems (BMS) |
| AR504 | Building Construction-V | Core Lab | 2 | Tall Building Construction Techniques, Advanced Prefabricated Construction, Formwork and Scaffolding, Construction Management Principles, Site Safety and Quality Control |
| AR505 | Human Settlements Planning | Core | 2 | Urbanization Process and Trends, Regional Planning Concepts, Town Planning Principles, Housing Policies and Programs, Infrastructure Planning |
| CE501 | Theory of Structures-IV | Core | 5 | Prestressed Concrete Design Concepts, Reinforced Concrete (RC) Design Principles, Steel Design Principles (Elastic), Foundation Design Basics, Introduction to Earthquake Resistant Structures |
| AR506 | Landscape Architecture | Core Lab | 2 | Site Analysis for Landscape Design, Landscape Elements and Materials, Planting Design and Horticulture, Hardscaping and Water Features, Environmental and Ecological Design |
| AR507 | Elective-I | Elective | 3 | Research Methods in Architecture, Project Management Techniques, Advanced Digital Presentation, Sustainable Materials, Architectural Photography |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR601 | Architectural Design-VI | Core Studio | 6 | Urban Design Project, Redevelopment and Revitalization, Heritage Conservation and Adaptive Reuse, Infrastructure Integration in Design, Design of Public Realm and Open Spaces |
| AR602 | Professional Practice-I | Core | 2 | Architect''''s Act and COA Regulations, Professional Ethics and Conduct, Architect''''s Responsibilities and Liabilities, Scale of Fees and Remuneration, Stages of a Project |
| AR603 | Specifications & Estimating | Core Lab | 2 | Specification Writing Principles, Preparation of Bill of Quantities (BOQ), Cost Estimation Methods, Tender Documents and Procedures, Valuation Principles |
| AR604 | Building Construction-VI | Core Lab | 2 | Timber and Composite Structures, Tensile and Membrane Structures, Geodesic Domes and Space Frames, Lightweight Construction Techniques, Sustainable Construction Practices |
| AR605 | Housing | Core | 2 | Housing Typologies and Standards, Social and Affordable Housing, Housing Policies and Schemes in India, Urban Renewal and Slum Redevelopment, Site and Services Approach |
| AR606 | Construction Management | Core | 2 | Project Life Cycle and Planning, CPM and PERT Techniques, Resource Management and Scheduling, Contract Administration, Quality Control and Safety Management |
| AR607 | Urban Planning Techniques | Core | 2 | Land Use Planning, Zoning Regulations and Development Controls, Planning Legislation and Acts, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Planning, Urban Renewal Strategies |
| AR608 | Elective-II | Elective | 3 | Urban Economics, Real Estate Development, Energy Efficient Buildings, Advanced Climatology, Disaster Mitigation |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR701 | Architectural Design-VII | Core Studio | 6 | Comprehensive Architectural Design Project, Mixed-Use Development, Contextual and Environmental Responsiveness, Advanced Building Detailing, Integrated Building Services Design |
| AR702 | Professional Practice-II | Core | 2 | Architectural Drawings and Documentation, Contract Administration and Legal Aspects, Arbitration and Dispute Resolution, Project Delivery Methods, Professional Indemnity and Insurance |
| AR703 | Structure Design-I (RCC) | Core Lab | 3 | Limit State Method of Design, Design of RCC Beams, Design of RCC Slabs, Design of RCC Columns, Design of Isolated and Combined Footings |
| AR704 | Specifications & BOQ-II | Core Lab | 2 | Advanced Specification Writing, Cost Estimation Software Applications, Project Cost Control Techniques, Valuation of Land and Buildings, Life Cycle Costing |
| AR705 | Working Drawings-I | Core Lab | 3 | Detailed Architectural Drawings, Sectional Details and Wall Sections, Joinery Details (Doors, Windows), Standard Details and Building Components, Drawing Standards and Conventions |
| AR706 | Research Methodology | Core | 2 | Types of Research, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis Techniques, Academic Writing and Thesis Structure, Research Ethics and Plagiarism |
| AR707 | Elective-III | Elective | 3 | Heritage Documentation Techniques, Green Building Rating Systems (LEED, GRIHA), Parametric Design Principles, Vernacular Architecture Studies, Digital Fabrication in Architecture |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR801 | Practical Training | Core | 12 | Architectural Office Practice, Site Supervision and Management, Project Coordination and Communication, Client and Consultant Interaction, Project Documentation and Report Writing |
| AR802 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Architectural Discourse and Criticism, Presentation Skills Development, Critical Analysis of Architectural Works, Current Trends in Architecture, Preparation for Thesis |
| AR803 | Structure Design-II (Steel) | Core Lab | 3 | Limit State Design of Steel Structures, Design of Tension Members, Design of Compression Members, Design of Beams and Plate Girders, Design of Bolted and Welded Connections |
| AR804 | Working Drawings-II | Core Lab | 3 | Detailed Service Drawings (Electrical, Plumbing), Structural Working Drawings, Large Scale Detailing (Stairs, Roofs), Integrated Building Drawings, Building Automation and Smart Systems |
| AR805 | Elective-IV | Elective | 3 | Urban Conservation and Heritage Management, Disaster Resistant Architecture, Smart Cities and Urban Technologies, Real Estate Economics, Advanced Landscape Design |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR901 | Architectural Design-VIII (Thesis Project Pre-Design) | Core Studio | 6 | Thesis Topic Selection and Justification, Site Selection and Analysis, Program Development and Brief Formulation, Literature Review and Case Studies, Conceptual Design Development |
| AR902 | Professional Practice-III | Core | 2 | Architectural Office Management, Financial Management in Practice, Marketing and Business Development for Architects, Legal Aspects of Practice (Copyright, Patent), Dispute Resolution and Arbitration |
| AR903 | Structure Design-III (Advanced) | Core Lab | 3 | Design of High-rise Structures, Design of Shell and Folded Plate Structures, Design of Space Frames, Introduction to Earthquake Engineering, Advanced Foundation Systems |
| AR904 | Specifications & BOQ-III | Core Lab | 2 | Advanced Estimation Techniques, Tender Analysis and Evaluation, Contract Negotiations, Project Financing and Economics, Value Engineering in Construction |
| AR905 | Thesis Seminar | Core | 2 | Thesis Topic Presentation, Research Progress Review, Methodology and Data Analysis, Interim Report Submission, Critical Feedback and Improvement |
| AR906 | Elective-V | Elective | 3 | Architectural Journalism, Digital Fabrication and Prototyping, Biomimicry in Architecture, Building Performance Simulation, Advanced Urban Theories |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR1001 | Architectural Design-IX (Thesis Project) | Core Studio | 8 | Comprehensive Architectural Design Solution, Detailed Working Drawings, Technical Specifications and BOQ, Project Report and Documentation, Model Making and Presentation |
| AR1002 | Viva Voce (Thesis) | Core | 2 | Project Defense and Presentation, Oral Examination on Thesis Content, Critical Evaluation and Feedback, Communication and Justification Skills, Overall Architectural Knowledge |




