

B-ARCH in Architecture at National Institute of Technology Patna


Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Architecture at National Institute of Technology Patna Patna?
This Architecture program at National Institute of Technology Patna focuses on cultivating creative designers and critical thinkers equipped to shape the built environment. It blends art, science, and technology to address contemporary architectural challenges. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable design, urban development, and cultural sensitivity, preparing students for impactful careers in India''''s rapidly evolving infrastructure and construction sector, fostering innovative and context-aware solutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring architects, creative individuals with a strong aptitude for design and problem-solving, and those passionate about shaping urban and rural landscapes. It targets fresh 10+2 graduates with a science or vocational background who aim to pursue a professional career in architecture. Individuals interested in sustainable development, heritage conservation, and advanced building technologies will find this program particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in architecture firms, urban planning agencies, construction companies, government organizations, and design consultancies across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience. Graduates can pursue higher education in specialized fields like urban design, landscape architecture, or conservation, contributing to India''''s smart cities and infrastructure development.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Design Principles and Visual Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to understanding fundamental architectural design principles, visual arts, and geometry. Practice freehand sketching, model making, and 2D drafting software (AutoCAD) diligently. Collaborate with peers on studio projects and seek regular feedback from faculty to build a strong foundational portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Model making kits, AutoCAD, Design magazines/journals, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
A strong foundation in design and visual communication is crucial for all future architectural tasks and forms the bedrock for effective project presentations and concept articulation in professional practice.
Develop Strong Material and Construction Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding basic building materials like brick, stone, timber, and concrete, along with fundamental construction techniques. Visit local construction sites and observe processes firsthand. Document different material applications and join workshops for hands-on experience in basic carpentry or masonry.
Tools & Resources
Building material samples, Construction site visits, Workshop training, Building construction handbooks, Online construction tutorials
Career Connection
Deep understanding of materials and construction methods is vital for practical design, detailing, and supervising projects, making you a more effective and responsible architect.
Cultivate Environmental Awareness and Sustainable Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with environmental studies and climate-responsive architecture concepts from early semesters. Participate in green campus initiatives or environmental clubs. Adopt sustainable living practices in your daily life and critically analyze buildings for their environmental impact.
Tools & Resources
Environmental studies textbooks, Green building case studies, Local environmental NGOs, TED Talks on sustainability, Energy audit tools (basic)
Career Connection
As sustainability becomes paramount in India''''s built environment, early integration of environmental ethics positions you as a responsible architect and opens doors to green building and sustainable design careers.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Design and Urban Studies- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in urban design studios and housing projects, collaborating with students from other disciplines if possible. Read up on urban planning theories and visit diverse urban areas to observe their dynamics. Seek out faculty-mentored projects on urban challenges specific to Indian cities.
Tools & Resources
Urban planning literature, GIS software (basic exposure), Urban design case studies, City walk tours, Government urban development reports
Career Connection
Understanding urban complexities prepares you for roles in urban planning, policy-making, and large-scale development projects, crucial for India''''s urbanization trajectory.
Hone Digital Skills and Parametric Design Thinking- (Semester 3-5)
Move beyond basic CAD to advanced 3D modeling software (e.g., SketchUp, Rhino, Revit). Explore parametric design tools and scripting basics. Work on projects that require complex geometries or data-driven design, leveraging these tools to enhance your design solutions and presentations.
Tools & Resources
Rhino/Grasshopper, Revit, SketchUp, Online tutorials (e.g., YouTube, Udemy), Architectural visualization forums
Career Connection
Proficiency in advanced digital tools is highly sought after in modern architectural practice, enabling efficient design, visualization, and collaboration, and improving your employability in leading firms.
Seek Early Internship and Professional Networking- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or apprenticeship opportunities with local architectural firms during semester breaks. Attend architecture conferences, workshops, and guest lectures to network with professionals. Volunteer for department events to interact with visiting architects.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional architectural bodies (COA, IIA), Architecture firm websites, Career fairs, Faculty connections
Career Connection
Early professional exposure provides invaluable practical experience, builds a strong network, and helps you understand industry expectations, significantly boosting your placement prospects.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Impactful Thesis Research and Design- (Semester 8-10)
Choose a thesis topic that aligns with your passion and has significant real-world relevance, especially within the Indian context (e.g., affordable housing, disaster-resilient structures, smart city interventions). Conduct thorough research, seek expert mentorship, and aim for an innovative, well-documented design solution.
Tools & Resources
Research journals, Academic databases, Expert interviews, Advanced modeling/rendering software, Thesis writing guides
Career Connection
A strong thesis project showcases your advanced design and research capabilities, serving as a powerful portfolio piece that can attract top employers or pave the way for postgraduate studies and specialized careers.
Intensive Internship and Portfolio Development- (Semester 8-10)
Utilize the mandatory internship period to gain comprehensive practical experience, working on live projects from conceptualization to execution. Simultaneously, curate a professional portfolio showcasing your best academic and internship work, highlighting your skills, design process, and impact.
Tools & Resources
Professional portfolio platforms (Issuu, Behance), Adobe Creative Suite, Resume builders, Mock interview sessions, Mentorship from senior architects
Career Connection
A well-executed internship and a meticulously crafted portfolio are critical for securing placements. They demonstrate your readiness for professional challenges and your ability to contribute meaningfully to an architectural firm.
Prepare for Professional Licensure and Specialization- (Semester 9-10)
Familiarize yourself with the Council of Architecture (COA) registration process and requirements for becoming a licensed architect in India. Explore advanced electives or certifications in your chosen area of specialization (e.g., BIM, urban heritage, sustainable materials) to gain a competitive edge in the job market.
Tools & Resources
COA website and regulations, Professional practice handbooks, Specialized certification courses, Industry webinars and workshops, Alumni network for guidance
Career Connection
Understanding licensure requirements ensures a smooth transition into professional practice. Specializing early allows you to target niche roles and become an expert in high-demand areas, enhancing your long-term career growth in India''''s dynamic architecture sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 5 years / 10 semesters
Credits: 205 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Varies by subject type (typically 30-50%), External: Varies by subject type (typically 50-70%)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR1101 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - I | Studio | 4 | Basic design principles, Architectural elements, Space organization, Form and function, Anthropometrics, Presentation techniques |
| AR1102 | VISUAL ARTS - I | Studio | 3 | Freehand drawing, Perspective drawing, Color theory, Media exploration, Visual composition, Still life and landscape |
| AR1103 | BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION - I | Core | 3 | Introduction to building materials, Brick and stone masonry, Timber as a construction material, Basic construction techniques, Arches and lintels, Damp proofing |
| AR1104 | HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE - I | Core | 2 | Prehistoric architecture, Ancient river valley civilizations, Egyptian architecture, Mesopotamian architecture, Greek architecture, Roman architecture |
| AR1105 | THEORY OF STRUCTURES - I | Core | 2 | Engineering mechanics fundamentals, Forces and moments, Equilibrium of bodies, Stress and strain concepts, Properties of structural materials, Center of gravity and moment of inertia |
| AR1106 | GEOMETRY & SURVEYING | Core | 3 | Descriptive geometry, Solid geometry, Orthographic and isometric projections, Plane surveying principles, Leveling and contouring, Theodolite and total station |
| AR1107 | WORKSHOP PRACTICE | Lab | 2 | Model making techniques, Carpentry tools and joints, Basic welding processes, Sheet metal work, Material manipulation and crafts, Safety procedures in workshop |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR1201 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - II | Studio | 4 | Residential design principles, Small-scale building design, Site analysis and response, Space planning and circulation, Climatic considerations in design, Ergonomics and anthropometrics |
| AR1202 | VISUAL ARTS - II | Studio | 3 | Advanced drawing and sketching, Painting techniques (watercolor, acrylic), Sculpture and relief work, Digital art fundamentals, Composition and visual narratives, Life drawing and portraiture |
| AR1203 | BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION - II | Core | 3 | Cement and concrete technology, Reinforcing steel properties, Glass and plastics in construction, Foundations and footings, Load-bearing wall structures, Floor systems and roofs |
| AR1204 | HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE - II | Core | 2 | Early Christian and Byzantine architecture, Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture, Islamic architecture, Early Indian architecture introduction, Architectural evolution through periods |
| AR1205 | THEORY OF STRUCTURES - II | Core | 2 | Shear force and bending moment diagrams, Analysis of beams and frames, Column theory and buckling, Truss analysis methods, Deflection of beams, Introduction to indeterminate structures |
| AR1206 | COMPUTER APPLICATION - I | Lab | 2 | Introduction to AutoCAD 2D, Basic drafting commands and tools, Layer management and block creation, Dimensioning and annotations, Plotting and publishing drawings, Architectural symbols and conventions |
| AR1207 | ENVIRONMENT STUDIES | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution and control, Sustainable development concepts, Green building principles, Climate change and global warming, Environmental impact assessment |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR2301 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - III | Studio | 5 | Public building design, Institutional design typology, Design process and programming, Site context and urban integration, Functional organization and circulation, User-centric design |
| AR2302 | HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE - III | Core | 2 | Renaissance architecture, Baroque and Rococo styles, Neoclassicism and revivalism, Colonial architecture in India, Influence of enlightenment on architecture, Palladianism and Georgian architecture |
| AR2303 | BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION - III | Core | 3 | Roofing systems and coverings, Floor finishes and treatments, Doors, windows and ventilators, Staircases and ramps, Building finishes and plastering, Modular coordination in construction |
| AR2304 | THEORY OF STRUCTURES - III | Core | 2 | Reinforced Concrete (RC) fundamentals, Properties of concrete and steel reinforcement, Working stress method, Limit state method introduction, Design of RC beams (flexure and shear), Design of one-way and two-way slabs |
| AR2305 | CLIMATE AND ARCHITECTURE | Core | 3 | Climatic zones of the world, Sun path diagrams and solar geometry, Wind patterns and ventilation, Passive design strategies, Daylighting and thermal comfort, Energy efficiency in buildings |
| AR2306 | COMPUTER APPLICATION - II | Lab | 2 | Introduction to AutoCAD 3D, Basic 3D modeling commands, Rendering basics and materials, Visual styles and camera views, Presentation techniques using CAD, Introduction to BIM software concepts |
| AR2307 | SOCIOLOGY & ARCHITECTURE | Core | 2 | Social dynamics and human behavior, Urban sociology and demography, Community planning and participation, Cultural influences on design, Housing and social equity, Impact of globalization on built environment |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR2401 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - IV | Studio | 5 | Commercial building design, Complex programmatic requirements, Urban context and infill design, Public interface and circulation, Accessibility and universal design, Retail and office typology |
| AR2402 | HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE - IV | Core | 2 | Modern architecture movements, Impact of industrial revolution, Pioneering architects (Le Corbusier, F.L. Wright), Bauhaus and International Style, Post-modernism and Deconstructivism, Contemporary architectural trends |
| AR2403 | BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION - IV | Core | 3 | Curtain walls and cladding systems, Space frame structures, Long span structural systems, Prefabrication and modular construction, Steel structures fabrication, New age building materials |
| AR2404 | THEORY OF STRUCTURES - IV | Core | 2 | Limit state design philosophy, Detailed RC beam design (flexure, shear, torsion), RC column design (axial, eccentric loading), Design of footings (isolated, combined), Retaining walls principles, Shear walls introduction |
| AR2405 | BUILDING SERVICES - I | Core | 3 | Water supply systems, Sanitation and drainage systems, Plumbing fixtures and fittings, Solid waste management, Rainwater harvesting, Sewage treatment basics |
| AR2406 | PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE - I | Core | 2 | Role of an architect in India, Architect''''s ethics and responsibilities, Conditions of engagement and contracts, Tender documents and bidding process, Council of Architecture (COA) norms, Building bye-laws introduction |
| AR2407 | URBAN DESIGN STUDIO | Studio | 2 | Urban morphology and spatial structure, Street design and public realm, Public spaces and plazas, Urban planning principles, Site analysis in urban context, Density and urban form |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR3501 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - V | Studio | 5 | Mixed-use developments, High-rise building design, Urban interventions and regeneration, Sustainable design integration, Complex site integration, Transit-oriented development concepts |
| AR3502 | HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE - V | Core | 2 | Traditional Indian architecture, Hindu temple architecture styles, Islamic architecture in India, Buddhist and Jain architecture, Vernacular architectural styles of India, Mughal architecture and gardens |
| AR3503 | BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION - V | Core | 3 | Advanced concrete technology, Steel structures detailing and connections, Timber engineering and construction, Composite materials in construction, Tension and compression members, Connections in steel structures |
| AR3504 | THEORY OF STRUCTURES - V | Core | 2 | Prestressed concrete principles, Shell structures and their analysis, Folded plates and domes, Arches and funicular shapes, Suspension structures, Introduction to earthquake resistant design |
| AR3505 | BUILDING SERVICES - II | Core | 3 | Electrical systems in buildings, Illumination design principles, Acoustics and sound control, Fire safety systems and egress, Security systems and building automation, Low voltage systems |
| AR3506 | HOUSING | Core | 2 | Housing typologies and forms, Affordable housing strategies, Housing policies and programs in India, Slum rehabilitation and upgrading, Social and economic aspects of housing, Sustainability in housing |
| AR3507 | ELECTIVE - I | Elective | 2 | Varies based on elective choice (e.g., Vernacular Architecture, Urban Conservation, Research Methodology), Specific focus area study, Theoretical exploration, Advanced concepts in chosen field, Case studies and analysis, Application of specialized knowledge |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR3601 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - VI | Studio | 5 | Urban planning projects, Master planning and site development, Landscape integration in design, Heritage conservation design, Design guidelines and controls, Large scale site planning |
| AR3602 | URBAN PLANNING | Core | 2 | Planning theories and concepts, Urban infrastructure systems, Zoning and land use planning, Regional planning strategies, Smart cities and urban regeneration, Planning legislation and governance |
| AR3603 | BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION - VI | Core | 3 | Waterproofing and damp-proofing, Thermal insulation systems, Sound insulation and acoustics, Green building materials, Smart materials and technologies, Advanced finishes and coatings |
| AR3604 | BUILDING SERVICES - III | Core | 3 | HVAC systems design, Vertical transportation (elevators, escalators), Waste water treatment systems, Building automation and control systems, Renewable energy integration in buildings, Sustainable building services |
| AR3605 | PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE - II | Core | 2 | Building bye-laws and regulations, Professional liability and indemnity, Arbitration and dispute resolution, Project management in architecture, Client relations and communication, Architectural competition and awards |
| AR3606 | LANDSCAPE DESIGN | Core | 3 | Principles of landscape design, Site elements (hardscape, softscape), Planting design and horticulture, Ecological considerations in landscape, Urban landscapes and public parks, Water features and landform design |
| AR3607 | ELECTIVE - II | Elective | 2 | Varies based on elective choice (e.g., Computer Applications in Architecture, Advanced Structures), Specialized software applications, Detailed structural analysis methods, Advanced design theories, Contemporary architectural discourse, Innovative building technologies |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR4701 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - VII | Studio | 5 | Research-based design projects, Advanced architectural problems, Innovative and experimental solutions, Integration of theoretical concepts, Comprehensive design development, Pre-thesis design exploration |
| AR4702 | ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH | Core | 2 | Research methodology in architecture, Literature review and critical analysis, Data collection techniques (qualitative, quantitative), Research analysis and interpretation, Report writing and presentation, Formulation of research questions |
| AR4703 | SPECIFICATION, ESTIMATION & VALUATION | Core | 3 | Building specifications writing, Quantity surveying and measurement, Cost estimation methods, Rate analysis for building items, Valuation methods for properties, Tender analysis and contract administration |
| AR4704 | INTERIOR DESIGN | Core | 3 | Principles of interior design, Space planning and functional layouts, Furniture design and selection, Material selection and finishes, Lighting design and effects, Ergonomics and human factors in interiors |
| AR4705 | CONSERVATION & HERITAGE | Core | 2 | Definition of heritage and conservation, Conservation principles and charters, Material conservation techniques, Historic urban landscapes, Adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, Heritage legislation in India |
| AR4706 | ELECTIVE - III | Elective | 2 | Varies based on elective choice (e.g., Urban Planning & Design, Housing & Community Planning), Advanced urban theories, Sustainable community development, Real estate and property development, Advanced graphic representation, Parametric design |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR4801 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - VIII (THESIS PROJECT) | Project | 10 | Identification of thesis problem, Conceptual development and ideation, Detailed site analysis and context study, Preliminary design proposals, Literature review and case studies, Developing a theoretical framework |
| AR4802 | TRAINING / INTERNSHIP | Internship | 4 | Practical experience in architectural firms, Site supervision and execution, Working on architectural drawings, Project documentation and presentation, Professional communication and ethics, Understanding office practices |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR5901 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - IX (THESIS PROJECT) | Project | 10 | Advanced design development, Structural integration and detailing, Building services integration, Material specifications and costing, Sustainability strategies integration, Refinement of design concepts |
| AR5902 | PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE & ETHICS | Core | 2 | Architect''''s Act and COA regulations, Professional liability and negligence, Arbitration and dispute settlement, Legal aspects of architectural practice, Project management and delivery methods, Office management and fee structure |
| AR5903 | URBAN ECOLOGY & SUSTAINABILITY | Core | 2 | Ecological principles in urban areas, Urban biodiversity and green infrastructure, Resource management and circular economy, Environmental impact assessment for urban projects, Sustainable urban development strategies, Climate resilient urban planning |
| AR5904 | DISASTER RESISTANT ARCHITECTURE | Core | 2 | Natural hazards and their impact, Structural systems for disaster resistance, Seismic design principles, Resilient building materials and construction, Post-disaster reconstruction and planning, Risk assessment and mitigation strategies |
| AR5905 | ELECTIVE - IV | Elective | 2 | Varies based on elective choice (e.g., Building Economics, Real Estate Development), Financial aspects of construction, Market analysis for real estate, Advanced visualization techniques, Project delivery systems, Heritage interpretation and management |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR5101 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN - X (THESIS PROJECT) | Project | 10 | Final design resolution and refinement, Comprehensive documentation and drawings, Model making and physical representation, Professional presentation drawings, Preparation for viva voce and defense, Integration of all design components |
| AR5102 | ELECTIVE - V | Elective | 2 | Varies based on elective choice (e.g., Product Design, Research Methodologies, Advanced Landscape), Specialized design domains, In-depth study of a chosen architectural area, Advanced theoretical concepts, Emerging technologies in architecture, Independent study or project |
| AR5103 | SEMINAR | Core | 2 | Presentation skills development, Critical analysis of architectural topics, Current trends and innovations in architecture, Research topic discussion and feedback, Public speaking and communication, Peer learning and constructive critique |




