University Program in Architecture
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program is designed to prepare students for a professional career in architecture. It integrates design creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking, focusing on sustainable and innovative design solutions. The curriculum combines studio-based learning with lectures, workshops, and practical experience, encouraging students to develop their own design philosophy and approach.
Program Structure
Year 1: Foundation in Architecture and Design
- Semester 1: Introduction to Architecture and Basic Design
- Architectural Design Studio I (Fundamentals of Design)
- Architectural Drawing and Graphics I
- History of Architecture I (Ancient to Medieval)
- Materials and Methods of Construction I
- Introduction to Digital Design Tools
- Semester 2: Principles of Design and Contextual Studies
- Architectural Design Studio II (Space and Form)
- Architectural Drawing and Graphics II
- History of Architecture II (Renaissance to Modern)
- Materials and Methods of Construction II
- Environmental Systems I (Climate and Architecture)
Year 2: Architectural Design and Technology
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Semester 3: Intermediate Design and Building Systems
- Architectural Design Studio III (Residential Design)
- Building Construction and Technology I
- Structural Systems I (Statics and Mechanics)
- Environmental Systems II (Lighting and Acoustics)
- Architectural Theory I (Modern and Contemporary Movements)
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Semester 4: Urban Context and Sustainable Design
- Architectural Design Studio IV (Urban and Community Design)
- Building Construction and Technology II
- Structural Systems II (Steel and Concrete Structures)
- Environmental Systems III (Sustainable Design Strategies)
- History of Urban Form and Urban Design
Year 3: Advanced Design and Specializations
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Semester 5: Complex Building Design
- Architectural Design Studio V (Mixed-Use and High-Rise Design)
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Digital Fabrication
- Structural Systems III (Advanced Structures)
- Environmental Systems IV (Advanced Sustainability)
- Architectural Theory II (Critical and Postmodern Theories)
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Semester 6: Specialized Design and Research
- Architectural Design Studio VI (Special Topics Studio, e.g., Healthcare Design, Cultural Spaces)
- Building Systems Integration
- Research Methods in Architecture
- Elective Course I (e.g., Landscape Architecture, Interior Design)
- Professional Practice I (Building Codes and Regulations)
Year 4: Professional Practice and Urban Studies
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Semester 7: Urban and Regional Design
- Architectural Design Studio VII (Urban Design and Planning)
- Urban Planning and Development
- Elective Course II (e.g., Digital Design and Parametricism, Adaptive Reuse)
- Professional Practice II (Project Management and Documentation)
- History and Theory of Sustainable Architecture
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Semester 8: International and Experimental Design
- Architectural Design Studio VIII (International Design Workshop or Study Abroad Program)
- Experimental Architecture and Emerging Technologies
- Professional Practice III (Practice Management and Entrepreneurship)
- Elective Course III (e.g., Heritage Conservation, Computational Design)
- Research Seminar in Contemporary Architecture
Year 5: Thesis and Professional Preparation<br />
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Semester 9: Thesis Research and Preparation
- Architectural Design Thesis I (Research and Program Development)
- Advanced Architectural Theory and Criticism
- Elective Course IV (e.g., Architecture and Film, Design Build Studio)
- Professional Practice IV (Legal Aspects and Contracts)
- Urban and Regional Planning (Capstone Seminar)
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Semester 10: Thesis Design and Final Presentation
- Architectural Design Thesis II (Design Development and Presentation)
- Elective Course V (e.g., Advanced Digital Design, Sustainability in Practice)
- Professional Practice V (Ethics and Professional Responsibility)
- Portfolio Development and Career Planning
- Preparation for Licensure and Registration
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of architectural design principles, history, and theory.
- Develop innovative and contextually appropriate architectural designs.
- Apply technical skills in structural systems, environmental control, and material use.
- Integrate sustainable and ethical practices into architectural design and planning.
- Communicate design ideas effectively through drawings, models, and digital media.
- Conduct research and critical analysis to inform design processes.
- Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement.
- Prepare for professional practice, including project management and licensure.
Assessment Methods
- Design Studio Critiques and Reviews
- Portfolio Assessments and Presentations
- Written Examinations (History, Theory, Technical Subjects)
- Research Papers and Case Studies
- Group Projects and Collaborative Design Workshops
- Practical Examinations (Model Making, Digital Fabrication)
- Thesis Project (Design and Written Components)
- Internship and Practical Training Evaluations
Internship and Practical Experience
- Internship: Students are required to complete a professional internship, gaining hands-on experience in architectural practice under the supervision of a licensed architect. This usually occurs in the fourth year during the summer break or as part of a cooperative education program.
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma with a strong background in arts and sciences (Mathematics, Physics, Visual Arts)
- Competitive entrance examination scores (where applicable)
- Portfolio of creative work (drawings, models, photography, or other visual arts)
- Personal statement and letters of recommendation
- Interview (optional, depending on university requirements)
Program Duration
- 5 Years (10 Semesters)
Degree Awarded
- Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the B.Arch program are prepared for roles in:
- Architectural Design Firms
- Urban Planning and Development Agencies
- Interior Design and Landscape Architecture
- Construction and Project Management
- Building Conservation and Heritage Preservation
- Academia and Research