

B-ARCH in General at National Institute of Technology Patna


Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is GENERAL at National Institute of Technology Patna Patna?
This B.Arch program at National Institute of Technology Patna focuses on equipping students with a holistic understanding of architectural design, construction, and urban planning, deeply rooted in Indian cultural and climatic contexts. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable practices and technological integration, preparing graduates to address the complex challenges of rapid urbanization and infrastructure development in India. It differentiates itself by blending theoretical knowledge with extensive studio-based learning, fostering creative and analytical skills essential for the profession. The industry demand for skilled architects in India is robust, driven by booming real estate, smart city initiatives, and heritage conservation efforts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring architects, fresh 10+2 graduates with a strong aptitude for design, mathematics, and problem-solving, who envision shaping the built environment. It caters to individuals passionate about aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and community impact. The curriculum is also suitable for those looking to contribute to India''''s architectural landscape, from urban development to rural infrastructure. Prerequisite backgrounds typically include a strong foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, coupled with creative drawing abilities and a valid NATA or JEE Main Paper 2 score.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse and rewarding India-specific career paths, including architectural practice in private firms, government organizations (CPWD, PWD), urban planning departments, real estate development, and heritage conservation. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-25 LPA or more, especially with specialization and entrepreneurial ventures. Growth trajectories often lead to senior architect, project manager, or urban designer roles. The program also aligns with requirements for professional registration with the Council of Architecture (CoA) in India.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Design Principles and Graphics- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to Architectural Design Studio I & II and Architectural Graphics I & II. Focus on understanding fundamental design elements, principles, and accurate technical drawing skills. Attend all studio sessions, actively participate in critiques, and experiment with various drawing and model-making techniques. Utilize online tutorials and reference books to enhance graphic presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD Basics, Sketchup, Physical Model Making Kits, Design History Texts
Career Connection
Strong foundational design and graphic skills are non-negotiable for all architectural roles and form the backbone of a compelling portfolio, crucial for internships and future job applications.
Build a Strong Academic Base in Allied Subjects- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to Mathematics, Building Construction, and History of Architecture. These subjects provide the theoretical and practical knowledge essential for informed design decisions. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and apply theoretical knowledge to studio projects. Regularly review building codes and material properties relevant to Indian construction practices.
Tools & Resources
Building Bye-laws Handbooks, Standard Construction Manuals, Online Architectural History Archives
Career Connection
A solid understanding of structures, services, and history ensures designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also buildable, functional, and culturally appropriate, making you a well-rounded professional.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Observation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in site visits, architectural walks, and case study analyses. Develop the habit of observing and documenting architectural details, urban patterns, and spatial experiences in your surroundings. Maintain a sketchbook for ideas and observations. Discuss architectural philosophies with peers and faculty to broaden your perspective.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbook, Architectural Journals, Documentaries on Indian Architecture
Career Connection
Critical observation and analytical skills are vital for problem-solving in design, enabling you to generate innovative solutions that respond effectively to context and user needs, highly valued by employers.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Technical Skills with Software Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on mastering Computer Applications in Architecture I & II. Go beyond basic AutoCAD to explore 3D modeling software like Revit or SketchUp and rendering tools. Seek out workshops and online courses to develop advanced digital presentation and BIM (Building Information Modeling) skills, which are highly in demand in the Indian industry. Integrate these tools into all design studio submissions.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD, Revit, Sketchup, V-Ray/Lumion, Grasshopper (for parametric design)
Career Connection
Proficiency in industry-standard software makes you highly employable, as firms increasingly rely on digital tools for design, documentation, and project coordination.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Projects and Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Look for opportunities to collaborate with students from other engineering disciplines for interdisciplinary projects. Participate in national and international architectural design competitions (e.g., NASA, HUDCO, ACEDGE challenges). This exposure builds teamwork, problem-solving, and time management skills, while providing valuable portfolio content and networking opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Archohm, Rethinking The Future, NASA India
Career Connection
Participation demonstrates initiative, innovation, and practical application of skills, making you stand out to potential employers and enhancing your resume for internships and placements.
Seek Early Exposure to Professional Practice- (Semester 3-5)
Utilize summer breaks to undertake short-term internships or shadow architects in local firms. Even brief experiences can provide insights into office culture, project execution, and client interactions. Attend industry seminars and workshops to network with professionals and understand current industry trends and challenges in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Networking Events, Architectural India Magazines
Career Connection
Early practical experience helps solidify theoretical knowledge, clarifies career aspirations, and builds a professional network that can be invaluable for future internships and job referrals.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Internship and Professional Training- (Semester 6-8)
Treat your mandatory internship as a crucial learning phase. Take initiative, seek feedback, and contribute actively to projects. Document your work meticulously, preparing detailed reports and a professional portfolio. Understand the nuances of Indian building codes, material procurement, and site management through practical application. Network extensively with senior architects and project managers.
Tools & Resources
Internship Report Guidelines, Professional Portfolio Software (e.g., InDesign), CoA Regulations
Career Connection
A strong internship performance is often a direct pathway to pre-placement offers or excellent recommendations, significantly boosting your placement prospects in top firms.
Develop a Unique Architectural Thesis and Portfolio- (Semester 9-10)
Invest significant effort in your Architectural Thesis, identifying a unique and relevant topic that showcases your design philosophy and research capabilities. Ensure your design development is rigorous, visually compelling, and technically sound. Curate a professional digital and physical portfolio that highlights your best design projects, skills, and unique contributions throughout the B.Arch program.
Tools & Resources
Thesis Guidelines, Portfolio Website Builders, High-Quality Printing Services
Career Connection
The thesis and portfolio are your most important assets for demonstrating expertise and securing placements. A well-executed thesis can also lay the groundwork for future specializations or master''''s studies.
Prepare for Professional Licensure and Specializations- (Semester 9-10 and Post-Graduation)
Familiarize yourself with the Architects Act 1972 and the Council of Architecture (CoA) regulations for professional registration in India. Consider pursuing certifications in specialized areas like Green Building (LEED AP, GRIHA Evaluator), Project Management (PMP), or BIM Management to enhance your profile. Network with recent alumni to understand the job market and interview processes in India.
Tools & Resources
Council of Architecture website, IGBC/GRIHA resources, Online courses on Project Management
Career Connection
Professional registration is mandatory for practicing independently in India. Specializations and advanced certifications make you a more competitive candidate for specific roles and higher salary brackets.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics or 10+3 Diploma Examination with Mathematics as a compulsory subject. Obtained at least 50% marks in aggregate. Qualified in NATA or JEE Main Paper 2.
Duration: 10 semesters / 5 years
Credits: 200 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (for theory subjects), 60% (for studio/lab subjects), External: 50% (for theory subjects), 40% (for studio/lab subjects)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 101 | Architectural Design Studio I | Core Studio | 6 | Elements of Design, Principles of Design, Basic Forms and Spaces, Introduction to Spatial Concepts, Design Exercises |
| AR 103 | Architectural Graphics I | Core Lab | 3 | Drawing Instruments and Techniques, Orthographic Projections, Isometric and Axonometric Projections, Perspective Drawing, Line Types and Lettering |
| AR 105 | History of Architecture I | Core Theory | 3 | Pre-historic Architecture, Ancient Civilizations Architecture, Egyptian Architecture, Mesopotamian Architecture, Indus Valley Civilization |
| AR 107 | Building Construction I | Core Theory | 3 | Building Materials Introduction, Foundations, Brick Masonry, Stone Masonry, Arches and Lintels |
| AR 109 | Workshop I (Model Making) | Core Lab | 3 | Introduction to Model Making, Materials for Models, Tools and Techniques, Scale Models, Presentation Models |
| MA 101 | Mathematics I | Allied Core | 3 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Vector Calculus, Matrices, Differential Equations |
| HS 101 | English for Professional Communication | Allied Core | 2 | Technical Writing, Oral Communication, Presentation Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 102 | Architectural Design Studio II | Core Studio | 6 | Simple Residential Design, Anthropometry and Ergonomics, Site Analysis, Space Planning, Form Development |
| AR 104 | Architectural Graphics II | Core Lab | 3 | Advanced Projections, Shades and Shadows, Rendering Techniques, Presentation Drawings, Digital Graphics Introduction |
| AR 106 | History of Architecture II | Core Theory | 3 | Greek and Roman Architecture, Early Christian Architecture, Byzantine Architecture, Islamic Architecture, Indian Temple Architecture |
| AR 108 | Building Construction II | Core Theory | 3 | Doors and Windows, Flooring, Roofing Systems, Stairs, Scaffolding and Shoring |
| AR 110 | Climatology | Core Theory | 3 | Elements of Climate, Sun Path Diagrams, Wind Patterns, Passive Design Strategies, Thermal Comfort |
| MA 102 | Mathematics II | Allied Core | 3 | Probability and Statistics, Numerical Methods, Complex Numbers, Fourier Series, Partial Differential Equations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 201 | Architectural Design Studio III | Core Studio | 6 | Institutional Building Design, Urban Context Analysis, Form, Space, Order, Structural Integration, Material Palettes |
| AR 203 | Building Construction III | Core Theory | 3 | Reinforced Concrete Construction, Steel Structures Introduction, Pre-stressed Concrete, Formwork, Composite Construction |
| AR 205 | History of Architecture III | Core Theory | 3 | Medieval European Architecture, Renaissance Architecture, Baroque and Rococo Architecture, Colonial Architecture in India, Mughal Architecture |
| AR 207 | Structural Mechanics I | Allied Core | 3 | Forces and Moments, Equilibrium, Stress and Strain, Properties of Materials, Bending Moments and Shear Forces |
| AR 209 | Computer Applications in Architecture I | Core Lab | 3 | AutoCAD 2D Drafting, Layers and Blocks, Dimensioning and Plotting, Introduction to 3D Modeling, Rendering Basics |
| AR 211 | Landscape Architecture I | Core Theory | 3 | Principles of Landscape Design, Site Features and Elements, Planting Design, Hardscape Elements, Water Features |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 202 | Architectural Design Studio IV | Core Studio | 6 | Public Building Design, Contextual Design, Barrier-Free Design, Building Bye-laws Integration, Sustainability in Design |
| AR 204 | Building Construction IV | Core Theory | 3 | Glass and Metal Construction, Timber Construction, Finishes and Coatings, Waterproofing and Damp Proofing, Pre-engineered Buildings |
| AR 206 | History of Architecture IV | Core Theory | 3 | Industrial Revolution Architecture, Modern Architecture Movements, Post-Modernism, Contemporary Architecture, Architecture in Post-Independence India |
| AR 208 | Structural Mechanics II | Allied Core | 3 | Columns and Beams, Trusses, Frames, Thin Slabs and Shells, Introduction to Earthquake Resistant Design |
| AR 210 | Computer Applications in Architecture II | Core Lab | 3 | AutoCAD 3D Modeling, Rendering and Visualization, Introduction to BIM (Revit/ArchiCAD), Parametric Design Basics, Digital Portfolio Creation |
| AR 212 | Surveying and Leveling | Core Lab | 3 | Chain Surveying, Compass Surveying, Plane Table Surveying, Leveling Techniques, Contour Mapping |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 301 | Architectural Design Studio V | Core Studio | 6 | Mixed-Use Development Design, Urban Planning Principles, Sustainable Site Planning, Vernacular Architecture Integration, Advanced Material Applications |
| AR 303 | Building Services I (Water Supply & Sanitation) | Core Theory | 3 | Water Requirements and Sources, Plumbing Systems, Drainage Systems, Waste Water Treatment, Rainwater Harvesting |
| AR 305 | Theory of Architecture I | Core Theory | 3 | Philosophical Bases of Architecture, Functionalism, Formalism, Semiotics in Architecture, Phenomenology |
| AR 307 | Concrete Structures Design | Allied Core | 3 | Limit State Design of RC Beams, Design of RC Slabs, Design of RC Columns, Design of RC Footings, Retaining Walls |
| AR 309 | Urban Planning I | Core Theory | 3 | History of Urbanization, Theories of Urban Planning, Urbanization in India, Urban Land Use Zoning, Master Planning |
| AR 311 | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Subject topics depend on elective chosen, e.g., Green Building Materials, Interior Design Basics, etc. |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 302 | Architectural Design Studio VI | Core Studio | 6 | Complex Building Design (e.g., Auditorium, Hospital), Building Systems Integration, Advanced Structural Concepts, Fire Safety Design, Acoustics in Design |
| AR 304 | Building Services II (HVAC & Electrical) | Core Theory | 3 | Principles of HVAC, Air Conditioning Systems, Ventilation Strategies, Electrical Wiring and Layouts, Illumination Design |
| AR 306 | Theory of Architecture II | Core Theory | 3 | Post-structuralism, Deconstruction, Regionalism in Architecture, Critical Regionalism, Sustainability Theory |
| AR 308 | Steel Structures Design | Allied Core | 3 | Design of Steel Connections, Design of Steel Beams, Design of Steel Columns, Design of Roof Trusses, Industrial Buildings |
| AR 310 | Urban Planning II | Core Theory | 3 | Urban Renewal and Redevelopment, Smart Cities Concepts, Urban Infrastructure Planning, Participatory Planning, Urban Policies in India |
| AR 312 | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Subject topics depend on elective chosen, e.g., Advanced Landscape Design, Housing, Cost Management. |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 401 | Architectural Design Studio VII | Core Studio | 6 | Urban Insertions and Redevelopment, Large Scale Site Planning, High-Rise Building Design, Contextual Sensitivity, Advanced Energy Performance |
| AR 403 | Building Services III (Acoustics & Fire Safety) | Core Theory | 3 | Fundamentals of Sound, Acoustics of Enclosed Spaces, Noise Control, Fire Dynamics, Fire Detection and Suppression Systems |
| AR 405 | Vernacular Architecture | Core Theory | 3 | Definition and Characteristics, Materials and Construction Techniques, Regional Variations in India, Climatic Response, Socio-cultural Context |
| AR 407 | Working Drawing I | Core Lab | 3 | Introduction to Working Drawings, Foundation and Layout Plans, Door and Window Schedules, Sectional Details, Reinforcement Details |
| AR 409 | Site Planning and Landscape Design | Core Studio | 3 | Advanced Site Analysis, Grading and Earthwork, Landscape Elements Detailing, Sustainable Landscape Practices, Softscape and Hardscape Integration |
| AR 411 | Elective III | Elective | 3 | Subject topics depend on elective chosen, e.g., Housing, Building Automation, Urban Design. |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 402 | Architectural Design Studio VIII | Core Studio | 6 | Comprehensive Design Project (Large Scale), Advanced Program Formulation, Environmental Responsive Design, Structural and Services Integration, Professional Presentation Techniques |
| AR 404 | Building Economics and Valuation | Core Theory | 3 | Cost Estimation and Specification, Quantity Surveying, Methods of Valuation, Investment Analysis, Real Estate Economics |
| AR 406 | Urban Design | Core Theory | 3 | Principles of Urban Design, Urban Morphology, Public Spaces Design, Streetscape Design, Conservation and Heritage |
| AR 408 | Working Drawing II | Core Lab | 3 | Advanced Working Drawings, Joinery Details, Staircase Details, Toilet Details, Service Ducts and Shafts |
| AR 410 | Internship / Practical Training | Practical | 8 | Exposure to Professional Practice, Project Documentation, Site Supervision, Client Interaction, Office Management |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 501 | Architectural Thesis (Part I - Synopsis and Literature Review) | Major Project | 6 | Topic Identification and Research, Literature Review, Case Studies, Site Selection and Analysis, Program Formulation |
| AR 503 | Professional Practice | Core Theory | 3 | Architects Act 1972, Council of Architecture, Indian Institute of Architects, Tenders and Contracts, Building Bye-laws and Regulations |
| AR 505 | Research Methodology in Architecture | Core Theory | 3 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| AR 507 | Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Subject topics depend on elective chosen, e.g., Advanced Structures, Conservation, Project Management. |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR 502 | Architectural Thesis (Part II - Design Development and Report) | Major Project | 15 | Design Conceptualization, Detailed Design Development, Structural and Services Integration, Presentation Drawings and Models, Comprehensive Report Writing |
| AR 504 | Construction Management | Core Theory | 3 | Project Life Cycle, Scheduling and Planning, Resource Management, Quality Control, Safety Management |




