

B-ARCH in General at Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University)


Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University) Chennai?
This Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program at Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology focuses on developing innovative design thinking, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of built environments. It integrates theoretical knowledge with practical studio experience, preparing students for the evolving architectural landscape in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative and analytical individuals passionate about shaping the human environment. It attracts fresh graduates seeking entry into the architectural profession, those interested in sustainable design, urban planning, or heritage conservation, and requires a strong aptitude for drawing, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths as licensed architects, urban planners, interior designers, landscape architects, or project managers in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in architectural firms, government bodies, real estate, and design consultancies.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Drawing & CAD Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong manual drafting, sketching, and 2D CAD proficiency (e.g., AutoCAD) to communicate design ideas accurately and produce construction documents effectively.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD tutorials, freehand sketching practice, online resources like YouTube channels (The CAD Geek, ArchiCAD tutorials)
Career Connection
Essential for clear communication of design ideas and producing accurate construction documents in architectural firms.
Engage Actively in Design Studio- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to studio projects, seeking continuous feedback from faculty and peers. Experiment with different materials, conceptual approaches, and presentation techniques.
Tools & Resources
Model-making materials, design software like SketchUp, Pinterest for inspiration, peer review sessions
Career Connection
Cultivates critical design thinking, problem-solving abilities, and portfolio development – crucial for future design roles.
Explore Architectural History & Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a broad understanding of architectural styles, movements, and philosophies through extensive readings, research, and site visits to historical and contemporary buildings.
Tools & Resources
Books on architectural history (e.g., A History of Architecture by Spiro Kostof), documentaries, virtual tours of historical sites
Career Connection
Provides context for contemporary design, informs design decisions, and enhances critical appreciation of the built environment.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Structural & Building Services Knowledge- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on understanding the engineering principles behind structures, water supply, drainage, electrical, and HVAC systems. Learn to integrate these systems seamlessly into architectural designs.
Tools & Resources
Structural analysis software (e.g., SAP2000 for basic understanding), textbooks on building services, site visits to construction projects
Career Connection
Enables integration of functional and technical aspects into design, making designs constructible and efficient, valuable for project coordination roles.
Participate in Design Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out and participate in national and international design competitions (e.g., NASA India competitions) and specialized workshops to gain exposure and refine skills.
Tools & Resources
Competition websites (ArchDaily, Rethinking The Future), workshop announcements from professional bodies, online design platforms
Career Connection
Builds portfolio, fosters innovative thinking, provides networking opportunities, and exposure to diverse design challenges.
Build a Strong Digital Portfolio- (Semester 3-5)
Systematically document all design studio projects, elective work, and competition entries with high-quality renderings, drawings, and clear project narratives.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator for portfolio layout, Behance or personal website for online presence
Career Connection
A professional portfolio is the primary tool for securing internships and placements, showcasing skills and design philosophy.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Meaningful Practical Training/Internship- (Semester 8)
Secure an internship with a reputed architectural firm or relevant organization in India to gain hands-on professional experience in design, documentation, and site supervision.
Tools & Resources
Naukri, LinkedIn, college placement cell, networking with alumni, professional organizations
Career Connection
Fulfills Council of Architecture requirements, provides practical application of academic knowledge, and often leads to pre-placement offers.
Focus on Thesis Research & Development- (Semester 7 (preparation), Semester 9 (main thesis))
Begin early on thesis topic selection, conducting comprehensive research, and engaging in iterative design development. Seek continuous guidance from mentors and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, research papers, specialized software for analysis/simulation, regular review meetings with faculty
Career Connection
Showcases ability for independent research, critical thinking, and advanced design capabilities, crucial for specialized roles or higher studies.
Prepare for Professional Licensure & Practice- (Semester 9-10)
Understand the Architects Act, professional ethics, legal aspects of practice, and actively prepare for the Council of Architecture (CoA) registration process.
Tools & Resources
CoA website, books on professional practice, workshops on contract management and project costing, mentorship from licensed architects
Career Connection
Essential for practicing as a registered architect in India, enabling independent practice or leadership roles in firms.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A Pass in +2 / Equivalent with 50% Marks in aggregate. Must have qualified in NATA / JEE (Main) Paper – II B.Arch.
Duration: 10 Semesters / 5 Years
Credits: 250 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Internal and External component for each course as per specific subject requirements (e.g., Theory: 50% Internal, 50% External; Studio/Project based courses have different weightage), External: Internal and External component for each course as per specific subject requirements (e.g., Theory: 50% Internal, 50% External; Studio/Project based courses have different weightage)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX1001 | Architectural Design Studio - I | Core / Studio | 9 | Design Principles, Elements of Architecture, Spatial Organization, Form and Function, Basic Design Problems |
| BSCX1002 | Building Construction - I | Core | 3 | Building Materials, Masonry Construction, Foundations, Doors and Windows, Roof Systems |
| BSCX1003 | History of Architecture - I | Core | 3 | Pre-historic Architecture, Ancient Civilizations (Egypt, Mesopotamia), Greek Architecture, Roman Architecture, Early Christian & Byzantine |
| BSCX1004 | Theory of Architecture - I | Core | 3 | Principles of Design, Architectural Elements, Scale and Proportion, Space and Form, Architectural Vocabulary |
| BSCX1005 | Basic Design and Visual Arts | Core | 3 | Elements of Art, Principles of Composition, Color Theory, Graphic Representation, Visual Communication |
| BSCX1006 | Graphics - I | Core | 3 | Technical Drawing, Orthographic Projections, Isometric Drawings, Perspective Drawing, Rendering Techniques |
| BSCX1007 | Computer Applications in Architecture - I | Core | 3 | Introduction to CAD, Basic Drawing Commands, Layer Management, 2D Drafting, Plotting and Printing |
| BSCX1008 | Site Surveying & Analysis | Core | 3 | Surveying Instruments, Chain Surveying, Compass Surveying, Leveling, Site Analysis Principles |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX2001 | Architectural Design Studio - II | Core / Studio | 9 | Residential Design, Small Scale Public Buildings, Site Integration, Climatic Considerations, Material Exploration |
| BSCX2002 | Building Construction - II | Core | 3 | RCC Structures, Lintels and Arches, Staircases, Flooring, Finishes |
| BSCX2003 | History of Architecture - II | Core | 3 | Romanesque Architecture, Gothic Architecture, Renaissance Architecture, Baroque and Rococo, Neoclassical Architecture |
| BSCX2004 | Theory of Architecture - II | Core | 3 | Architectural Orders, Contextualism, Regionalism, Semiotics in Architecture, Typology |
| BSCX2005 | Structures - I | Core | 3 | Statics, Equilibrium, Forces, Moments, Stress and Strain, Properties of Materials |
| BSCX2006 | Graphics - II | Core | 3 | Advanced Perspective, Axonometric Views, Shadow Casting, Rendering Techniques, Model Making Drawings |
| BSCX2007 | Computer Applications in Architecture - II | Core | 3 | Advanced CAD Tools, 3D Modeling Basics, Surface Modeling, Visualization Techniques, Architectural Presentations |
| BSCX2008 | Environmental Studies | Core | 3 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Pollution, Environmental Impact, Sustainable Practices, Green Building Concepts |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX3001 | Architectural Design Studio - III | Core / Studio | 9 | Institutional Buildings, Public Spaces, Urban Context, Programming, User Needs Analysis |
| BSCX3002 | Building Construction - III | Core | 3 | Steel Structures, Pre-stressed Concrete, Timber Construction, Large Span Structures, Sustainable Building Materials |
| BSCX3003 | History of Architecture - III | Core | 3 | Indian Architecture (Ancient to Medieval), Islamic Architecture in India, Colonial Architecture, Vernacular Architecture, Traditional Building Crafts |
| BSCX3004 | Theory of Architecture - III | Core | 3 | Modernism, Post-Modernism, Deconstructivism, Regional Modernism, Critical Regionalism |
| BSCX3005 | Structures - II | Core | 3 | Beams and Columns, Trusses, Shear Force and Bending Moment, Torsion, Foundation Design Principles |
| BSCX3006 | Climatology & Sustainable Architecture | Core | 3 | Climate Zones, Sun Path, Wind Patterns, Passive Design Strategies, Energy Efficiency, Green Building Rating Systems |
| BSCX3007 | Elective - I | Elective | 3 | Interior Design Principles, Space Planning, Furniture Layout, Material Selection, Lighting Design |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX4001 | Architectural Design Studio - IV | Core / Studio | 9 | Commercial Buildings, Mixed-Use Developments, Urban Design Context, Building Bye-laws, Regulatory Framework |
| BSCX4002 | Building Construction - IV | Core | 3 | Advanced Concrete Systems, Prefabricated Construction, Curtain Walling, Glazing Systems, Special Finishes |
| BSCX4003 | History of Architecture - IV | Core | 3 | Modern Indian Architecture, Post-Independence Architecture, Contemporary Global Trends, Architects and their Works, Urbanization in India |
| BSCX4004 | Theory of Architecture - IV | Core | 3 | Phenomenological Approach, Critical Theory, Post-Humanism, Digital Architecture, Future Trends |
| BSCX4005 | Structures - III | Core | 3 | Concrete Design Principles, Steel Design Principles, Earthquake Resistant Design, High Rise Structures, Foundation Systems |
| BSCX4006 | Building Services - I | Core | 3 | Water Supply Systems, Drainage Systems, Sanitation, Rainwater Harvesting, Solid Waste Management |
| BSCX4007 | Elective - II | Elective | 3 | Landscape Elements, Site Analysis, Hardscape & Softscape, Planting Design, Sustainable Landscaping |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX5001 | Architectural Design Studio - V | Core / Studio | 9 | Urban Housing, Slum Rehabilitation, Public Infrastructure, Transit-Oriented Development, Policy Frameworks |
| BSCX5002 | Building Construction - V | Core | 3 | Advanced Roofing Systems, Waterproofing, Acoustics, Fire Safety, Smart Building Technologies |
| BSCX5003 | Urban Design & Planning | Core | 3 | Urban Planning Principles, Master Plans, Zoning Regulations, Urban Renewal, Smart Cities Concepts |
| BSCX5004 | Professional Practice - I | Core | 3 | Role of Architect, Code of Conduct, Architects Act, Council of Architecture, Office Practice |
| BSCX5005 | Structures - IV | Core | 3 | Shell Structures, Folded Plates, Tension Structures, Space Frames, Advanced Structural Systems |
| BSCX5006 | Building Services - II | Core | 3 | Electrical Systems, Illumination Design, HVAC Systems, Lifts and Escalators, Security Systems |
| BSCX5007 | Elective - III | Elective | 3 | Heritage Documentation, Conservation Principles, Material Deterioration, Adaptive Reuse, Heritage Management |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX6001 | Architectural Design Studio - VI | Core / Studio | 9 | Large Scale Projects, Complex Building Typologies, Advanced Technologies, Project Management, Sustainability Integration |
| BSCX6002 | Building Construction - VI | Core | 3 | Special Building Materials, Smart Materials, Pre-engineered Buildings, Construction Management, Project Delivery Methods |
| BSCX6003 | Human Settlements & Planning | Core | 3 | Settlement Patterns, Rural Planning, Regional Planning, Housing Policies, Socio-Economic Aspects of Planning |
| BSCX6004 | Professional Practice - II | Core | 3 | Project Documentation, Specifications, Tender and Contract, Arbitration, Valuation |
| BSCX6005 | Cost Estimation & Quantity Surveying | Core | 3 | Methods of Estimation, Quantity Take-off, Rate Analysis, Costing of Materials and Labour, Budgeting |
| BSCX6006 | Building Services - III | Core | 3 | Fire Detection and Suppression, Building Automation Systems, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics Design, Green Building Services |
| BSCX6007 | Elective - IV | Elective | 3 | GIS Concepts, Data Acquisition, Spatial Analysis, Mapping, Applications in Architecture |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX7001 | Architectural Design Studio - VII | Core / Studio | 9 | Comprehensive Project Design, Thesis Preparation, Advanced Research Methods, Professional Presentation, Portfolio Development |
| BSCX7002 | Specifications & Contracts | Core | 3 | Specification Writing, Types of Contracts, Contract Conditions, Legal Aspects, Contract Administration |
| BSCX7003 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research Design, Data Collection, Analysis Techniques, Academic Writing, Thesis Structure |
| BSCX7004 | Elective - V | Elective | 3 | Algorithmic Design, Generative Forms, Computational Tools, Digital Fabrication, Form-Finding |
| BSCX7005 | Elective - VI | Elective | 3 | BIM Concepts, Parametric Modeling, Collaboration, Clash Detection, Information Management |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX8001 | Practical Training | Core / Internship | 20 | Professional Internship, Office Practice, Site Supervision, Project Documentation, Client Interaction |
| BSCX8002 | Elective - VII | Elective | 3 | Energy Simulation, Daylighting Analysis, Thermal Comfort, Software Tools, Environmental Metrics |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX9001 | Architectural Design Thesis | Core / Project | 20 | Thesis Topic Selection, Research and Analysis, Design Development, Comprehensive Project Resolution, Viva Voce |
| BSCX9002 | Elective - VIII | Elective | 3 | Urban Morphology, Public Realm Design, Placemaking, Transit-Oriented Development, Policy Integration |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSCX0001 | Dissertation & Viva Voce | Core / Project | 6 | Dissertation Writing, Research Presentation, Critical Analysis, Defense of Research, Academic Contribution |




