SIU Pune-image

M-ARCH-ENVIRONMENTAL-ARCHITECTURE-SSPAD in General at Symbiosis International University (SIU)

Symbiosis International University, Pune, established in 1971, is a premier UGC-recognized Deemed University with an A++ NAAC grade. Spanning over 400 acres, it offers over 60 diverse UG, PG, and doctoral programs. Known for academic excellence and global recognition, it consistently ranks high in NIRF and boasts strong placements.

READ MORE
location

Pune, Maharashtra

Compare colleges

About the Specialization

What is General at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune?

This M.Arch (Environmental Architecture) program at Symbiosis International University (SSAP) focuses on sustainable building design, urban planning, and environmental impact mitigation. It addresses critical issues of climate change and resource scarcity, equipping architects with advanced skills for creating eco-conscious built environments in India''''s rapidly developing urban landscape. The program emphasizes integrated design solutions and responsible resource management.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for architecture graduates with a B.Arch degree seeking to specialize in sustainable design. It also caters to practicing architects and urban planners looking to upskill in green building technologies, energy efficiency, and environmental policy in India. Candidates passionate about ecological design and contributing to a sustainable future will find this program rewarding.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India as environmental architects, sustainability consultants, green building certification specialists, or urban planners. Potential roles include working with architecture firms, real estate developers, government agencies, and NGOs, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience in the specialized sustainable sector.

OTHER SPECIALIZATIONS

Specialization

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Foundational Environmental Design Principles- (Semester 1-2)

Dedicate time to deeply understand core theories of environmental design, building physics, and sustainable urbanism introduced in semesters 1 & 2. Form study groups to discuss complex topics, apply concepts to local case studies, and proactively research Indian green building standards (e.g., IGBC, GRIHA).

Tools & Resources

IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) resources, GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) manual, online courses on Coursera/edX for building science

Career Connection

A strong theoretical base is crucial for design studios and prepares you for technical roles in environmental consulting and green building design, enabling informed decision-making in future projects.

Hands-on Software Proficiency & Simulation Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Beyond classroom exercises, gain advanced proficiency in building performance simulation software (e.g., EnergyPlus, IESVE, OpenStudio) and CAD/BIM tools. Utilize trial versions, online tutorials, and university labs to model diverse environmental scenarios, analyzing energy, daylight, and thermal comfort.

Tools & Resources

Autodesk Revit, Rhino with Grasshopper, Ladybug Tools, EnergyPlus, IESVE, OpenStudio, YouTube tutorials, LinkedIn Learning

Career Connection

Expertise in simulation software is highly valued by employers for roles in performance-based design and environmental analysis, directly impacting project efficiency and sustainability outcomes.

Engage in Interdisciplinary Environmental Seminars- (Semester 1-2)

Actively participate in seminars, present research, and seek feedback from peers and faculty. Attend guest lectures and workshops on environmental psychology, economics, and policy. Initiate discussions on current environmental challenges in India, connecting them to architectural solutions.

Tools & Resources

University seminar series, department workshops, relevant environmental conferences/webinars, academic databases (e.g., JSTOR, Google Scholar)

Career Connection

Develops critical thinking, presentation skills, and a holistic understanding of environmental issues, preparing you for leadership roles in integrated design teams and policy advocacy.

Intermediate Stage

Secure a Meaningful Internship in Sustainable Design- (Semester 3)

Actively seek internship opportunities with reputable architecture firms, sustainability consultancies, or government agencies focusing on environmental design. Gain practical experience in real-world projects, applying classroom knowledge, and developing professional network within India. Document all learning and project contributions meticulously.

Tools & Resources

University placement cell, LinkedIn, ArchDaily, industry networking events, internship platforms (e.g., Internshala)

Career Connection

Internships are crucial for gaining industry exposure, building a professional portfolio, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in the Indian market.

Develop a Strong Dissertation Research Focus- (Semester 3)

Begin exploring potential dissertation topics early, aligning with your passion for environmental architecture and India-specific challenges (e.g., affordable green housing, urban heat island mitigation in Indian cities). Engage closely with faculty advisors, refine your research question, and initiate rigorous literature review to build a solid foundation.

Tools & Resources

Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar), EndNote/Zotero for citation management, university library resources, faculty consultation

Career Connection

A well-researched dissertation demonstrates expertise, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving, enhancing credibility for academic pursuits or specialized industry roles.

Engage in Design Competitions & Industry Workshops- (Semester 3)

Participate in national or international design competitions focused on sustainable architecture and urban planning (e.g., Solar Decathlon India, ACEDGE competitions). Attend workshops on advanced building materials, smart city technologies, or specific environmental certifications (e.g., LEED India, WELL Building).

Tools & Resources

Competition platforms, industry associations (e.g., IIA, ISHRAE), online learning platforms

Career Connection

Competitions build practical skills, foster innovation, provide networking opportunities, and enhance your portfolio, making you a more attractive candidate for design-oriented roles.

Advanced Stage

Finalize and Present a High-Impact Dissertation Thesis- (Semester 4)

Dedicate significant effort to completing your dissertation thesis, ensuring rigorous analysis, clear argumentation, and professional presentation. Practice your viva voce defense, incorporating feedback from peers and mentors, and highlight the practical implications of your research for the Indian context.

Tools & Resources

Academic writing centers, presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote), peer review sessions, faculty advisors

Career Connection

A strong thesis is a testament to your specialized knowledge and research capabilities, differentiating you for R&D roles, academic positions, or specialized consulting.

Develop a Comprehensive Professional Portfolio- (Semester 4)

Curate a visually appealing and technically sound portfolio showcasing your best design studio projects, internship work, research findings, and software proficiencies. Tailor your portfolio to specific job applications, emphasizing your skills in environmental architecture and your understanding of Indian market needs.

Tools & Resources

Adobe InDesign/Photoshop, Issuu/Behance for online portfolio, professional portfolio review workshops, career services

Career Connection

A well-crafted portfolio is essential for showcasing your design abilities and technical skills, serving as your primary tool for securing placements in top architectural firms and design studios.

Actively Network and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 4)

Leverage university career services for resume building, mock interviews, and placement drives. Actively network with industry professionals through alumni events, conferences, and LinkedIn. Research potential employers (Indian and MNCs with operations in India) in environmental architecture and customize applications.

Tools & Resources

University career cell, LinkedIn, professional associations (IIA, IGBC), job portals (Naukri, Indeed), company websites

Career Connection

Proactive networking and strong interview preparation significantly increase your chances of securing desirable placements, ensuring a smooth transition into your professional career.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • B. Arch. from a Statutory University/Institution with minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST candidates).

Duration: 2 Years / 4 Semesters

Credits: 116 Credits

Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Architectural Theory & Criticism in Environmental DesignCore4Critical approaches to environmental architecture, Historical context and philosophical frameworks, Contemporary debates in sustainable design, Theoretical underpinnings of green architecture
Research Methodology in Environmental StudiesCore4Research design and formulation, Data collection and analysis methods, Literature review techniques, Academic writing and ethical considerations
Sustainable Urbanism & LandscapeCore4Urban ecology and green infrastructure, Sustainable land use planning, Climate-resilient cities and settlements, Ecological urban design principles
Environmental Systems & Technology – ICore4Building physics and thermal comfort, Natural ventilation strategies, Passive solar design principles, Daylighting techniques and energy efficiency
Environmental Architecture Design Studio – I (Integrated)Core8Application of environmental design principles, Sustainable site planning and analysis, Climate-responsive building design, Integrated project development
Elective – IElective2Advanced Climatology, Resource Management & Conservation, Disaster Resistant Architecture, Urban Housing & Regeneration, Heritage Conservation & Adaptive Reuse, Infrastructure Planning & Management
Seminar – ICore2Academic presentation skills, Literature review and critical analysis, Topic exploration and discussion, Peer feedback and refinement

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Environmental Psychology & User BehaviourCore4Human-environment interaction, Perception of space and comfort, Psychological effects of design, User behavior in sustainable buildings
Environmental Economics & PolicyCore4Economic valuation of environment, Policy instruments for sustainability, Environmental impact assessment, Green economy and carbon markets
Building Performance Simulation & ModelingCore4Simulation software for building performance, Energy and daylight modeling, Thermal comfort analysis and prediction, Data interpretation and optimization
Environmental Systems & Technology – IICore4Renewable energy systems (solar, wind), Water harvesting and waste management, Smart building technology and controls, Green building materials and active systems
Environmental Architecture Design Studio – II (Integrated)Core8Advanced environmental design projects, Integration of systems and technology, Complex site and climatic challenges, Performance-based design strategies
Elective – IIElective2Advanced Climatology, Resource Management & Conservation, Disaster Resistant Architecture, Urban Housing & Regeneration, Heritage Conservation & Adaptive Reuse, Infrastructure Planning & Management
Seminar – IICore2Advanced research presentation, Critical discussion and debate, Project proposal refinement, Ethical considerations in environmental studies

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Project Management & Professional PracticeCore4Project lifecycle and resource allocation, Risk management and legal aspects, Professional ethics and conduct, Contract administration and sustainable practice
DissertationCore10In-depth research methodology, Thesis development and structure, Literature review and gap identification, Data analysis and critical findings
Elective – IIIElective2Advanced Climatology, Resource Management & Conservation, Disaster Resistant Architecture, Urban Housing & Regeneration, Heritage Conservation & Adaptive Reuse, Infrastructure Planning & Management
Dissertation SeminarCore2Dissertation proposal presentation, Methodology discussion and feedback, Preliminary findings and progress tracking, Ethical considerations in research
Environmental Architecture Design Studio – III (Integrated)Core8Comprehensive environmental design project, Urban scale intervention and policy integration, Advanced systems design and integration, Sustainable master planning and documentation
InternshipCore4Practical application of skills, Professional development and industry exposure, Real-world project experience, Internship report writing

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Dissertation ThesisCore20Finalization of research and thesis writing, Viva voce preparation and defense, Comprehensive analysis and conclusion, Original contribution to environmental architecture
Environmental Architecture Design Studio – IV (Integrated)Core10Capstone environmental design project, Innovation in sustainable architecture, Integration of all learned concepts, Design excellence and professional presentation
whatsapp

Chat with us