B Arch - Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus & Subjects 2024

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Mar 21, 2024 13:07PM IST

Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus & Subjects Overview

The Bachelor of Architecture, or B Arch, is considered to be one of the top courses for students majoring in sciences. The five-year professional Bachelor of Architecture is suitable for students who want to pursue careers as architects. The entire Bachelor of Architecture course curriculum covers topics including architectural design, different types of structures, building construction, and architectural appreciation, among others. The Bachelor of Architecture syllabus over the full five-year period is covered in the sections that follow.

Each semester contains a fixed number of Bachelor of Architecture subjects, classes, and projects for which students are graded and given credits. To help students build the skill sets necessary to succeed in this competitive profession, each year has a different phase. Students have to choose elective subjects in addition to their core subjects. Each college would offer different electives from the others.

India has over 800 colleges that offer BArch courses. This interdisciplinary course of design, technology, humanities, and other streams is pursued by more than 90,000 architects across the country. Jamia Millia Islamia, IIT Kharagpur, NIT Calicut, IIT Roorkee, and others are regarded among the top B Arch colleges in India. The course curriculum is designed in such a way that the Bachelor of Architecture syllabus can be broken down into two stages over five years, each consisting of ten semesters: Stage 1 and Stage 2. The School of Planning and Architecture is one of the most prestigious architectural institutes, that generally adheres to this.

Stage I will comprise - Years 1, 2, and 3, while Stage II will include Years 4 and 5.

Stage I: This covers semesters 1 through 6, and it consists of fundamental and elective subjects and topics that help in students' knowledge development for uncovering architectural filaments.

Stage II: This includes a full semester of practical training and the remaining time is spent on in-depth analysis and ideation research. Following research training and studio courses, students are now free to choose electives based on their interests.

For students to develop the intrinsic abilities of reflection, evaluation, repetition, and research needed for a solid architectural background, choice-based learning is integrated throughout the course.

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Bachelor of Architecture Year Wise Syllabus

The syllabus for B. Arch in various colleges differs depending on semester classification and other criteria. The following are some common subjects that are offered in most institutions and are divided into semesters.

Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus First Year

The table below has a detailed Bachelor of Architecture First Year Syllabus-

SEMESTER ISEMESTER II
Architectural Design IArchitectural Design II
Visual Arts and Basic Design IVisual Arts and Basic Design II
Computer Applications IComputer Applications II
Building Construction IBuilding Construction II
Theory of Structures ITheory of Structures II
Environmental StudiesClimate-responsive Design
Model making and WorkshopSurveying and Leveling
Human Settl. & Vernacular Arch.History of Architecture I
Professional Communications ISociology and Culture
-Professional Communications II

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Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus Second Year

The table below contains a comprehensive Bachelor of Architecture Second Year Syllabus.

Semester IIISemester IV
Architectural Design IIIArchitectural Design IV
Visual Arts and Basic Design IIIVisual Arts and Basic Design IV
Computer Applications IIIComputer Applications IV
Building and Construction IIIBuilding and Construction IV
Theory of Structures IIITheory of Structures IV
Water, Waste, and SanitationElectrification, Lighting & Acoustics
Site Planning and Landscape StudiesSolar Active and Passive Systems
History of Architecture IIHistory of Architecture III
Art and Architectural Appreciation IArt and Architectural Appreciation II
Research Elective IResearch Elective II

Also Check -List of NIT Colleges in India 2024

Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus Third Year

The Bachelor of Architecture Third Year Syllabus is presented in the table below.

Semester VSemester VI
Architectural Design VArchitectural Design VI
Building Construction VBuilding Construction VI
Theory of Structures VTheory of Structure & Design II
HVAC. Mech. Mobility & Fire SafetyGreen Systems Integration
Energy System & RenewablesSustainable Urban Habitats
History of Architecture IVSpecifications & Contracts
Design Methodology IIContemporary Architecture
Art and Architectural Appreciation IIIArchitectural Theories
Arch. Research- Elective IIIArt & Architectural Appreciation IV
Arch. Research- Elective IV-

Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus Fourth Year

The Bachelor of Architecture Fourth Year Syllabus is presented in the table below.

Semester VIISemester VIII
Architectural Design VIIPractical Training
Working Drawings-
Project Management-
Architectural Appreciation IV-
Arch. Research Seminar-
Arch. Research- Elective V-
Arch. Research- Elective VI-

Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus Final Year 

Bachelor of Architecture Final Year Syllabus information is provided in the table below.

Semester IXSemester X
Architectural Design IXArchitectural Design Thesis
Professional PracticeThesis Design Research
Urban Design StudiesProfessional Practice
Arch. Research Dissertation/ Art Thesis-
Arch. Research- Elective VII-
Arch. Research- Elective VIII-

Quick Link: Top B.Arch Colleges in India 2024

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Bachelor of Architecture Subjects

The subjects taught in the Bachelor of Architecture are mostly similar for all the colleges, but they vary depending on the institution's course module. However, the overall Bachelor of Architecture subjects are quite similar but put in a different order, depending on the teaching method.

Bachelor of Architecture SubjectsBachelor of Architecture Subjects Details
Architectural DesignThe fundamental design principles utilized in architecture are introduced in this course, along with the role that communication plays in providing design information.
Theory of StructuresThis subject provides an overview of the fundamental structural principles and behaviors of structural elements. Additionally, it explains the fundamental ideas behind statically determining beams, arches, and frames.
Environmental StudiesThis course aims to raise awareness of numerous environmental problems and explains how adopting a sustainable lifestyle may alter social norms.
History of ArchitectureThis subject provides information on the development of architecture across ancient civilizations. It also gives a broad overview of how architectural elements related to culture and religion have changed over time.
Urban Design StudiesThe fundamental ideas and principles of urban design are introduced in this subject, along with methods for identifying and resolving urban problems. This topic also includes a methodological examination and solutions for the problem in urban design.

Also read: B.Arch Admission 2024

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Bachelor of Architecture Common Subjects for All Semester

Architectural drawing, art and design, building construction, and structural theory are examples of common branch subjects. To give students a strong foundation for subsequent study in various facets of architectural research, these are covered throughout the bachelor of architecture course. The list of common  Bachelor of Architecture subjects may vary from college to college. Some of the common subjects are- 

  • Visual Arts and Design
  • Building Construction
  • Theory of Structures
  • Theory of Structures
  • Building Science & Services
  • Architectural Design
  • Design Applications
  • History of Architecture

Quick Link: Architecture Courses

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Bachelor of Architecture Optional Subjects

The bachelor of architecture syllabus is largely built on a choice-based total system in which students choose from a set range of optionally available bachelor of architecture subjects depending entirely on their interests. Topics for electives primarily come from the following six outstanding streams:

HumanitiesTechnology
  • Art Appreciation
  • Behavioral Studies 
  • Gender and Architecture
  • Architecture Photography Journalism
  • Facade Engineering
  • Tall Buildings
  • Modular Coordination
  • Earthquake-resistant buildings
  • Construction Mechanism
DesignEmerging Concerns 
  • Urban Planning 
  • Hospital Design 
  • Campus Planning 
  • Interior Design 
  • Industrial Design
  •  Exhibition Design 
  • Theater and Set Design 
  • Parametric Design 
  • Biomimicry in Design 
  • Smart Buildings 
  • Urban Resilience 
  • Disaster Risk Management
Professional Practice ManagementEnvironment
  • Information Systems 
  • GIS Applications Architectural Entrepreneurship 
  • Design Outreach as Social Responsibility
  • Environmental Impact Assessment
  • Solar Design
  • Renewable Energy Systems 
  • Energy Simulations
  •  Climate Change and Cities

Also read: Top B.Arch Colleges in India 2024

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Bachelor of Architecture Lab Subjects

Bachelor of Architecture is a professional course that provides students with hands-on practical knowledge. The Bachelor of Architecture lab subjects could be different based on different colleges. Here we have accumulated year wise Bachelor of Architecture lab subjects in the tables presented below- 

 Bachelor of Architecture Lab Subjects (First Year)

Bachelor of Architecture First SemesterBachelor of Architecture Second Semester
Basic DesignArchitectural Design Studio – I 
Descriptive Geometry-IDescriptive Geometry-II 
Architectural WorkshopBuilding Construction-II 
Building Construction-IDocumentation and Measured Drawing
Communicative English-

 Bachelor of Architecture Lab Subjects (Second Year)

Bachelor of Architecture Third SemesterBachelor of Architecture Fourth Semester
Architectural Design Studio – IIArchitectural Design Studio – III
Building Construction – III Architectural Graphics & Communication
Surveying LabComputer Application – I (2D & 3D)Building Construction-IV

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 Bachelor of Architecture Lab Subjects (Third Year)

Bachelor of Architecture Fifth SemesterBachelor of Architecture Sixth Semester
Architectural Design Studio – IV Architectural Design Studio – V 
Working Drawing – I Working Drawing – II 
Interior Design StudioLandscape Design Studio

 Bachelor of Architecture Lab Subjects (Fourth Year)

Bachelor of Architecture Seventh SemesterBachelor of Architecture Eighth Semester
Architectural Design Studio – VI Architectural Design Studio – VII
Architectural DetailsPre Thesis Seminar
Structural Drawing and Details -

 Bachelor of Architecture Lab Subjects (Final Year)

Bachelor of Architecture Ninth SemesterBachelor of Architecture Tenth Semester
Office Training-
Site Supervision Work and
Documentation 
Field Documentation and
Architectural Details
Critical Appraisal of
Buildings 
Field Observation Studies

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Specializations offered in Bachelor of Architecture

Given below in the table are the different specializations and Bachelor of Architecture Course Subjects offered in Bachelor of Architecture-

SpecializationSubjectsSubject Details
DesignArchitectural Designing, Visual Arts and Basic DesignThese Bachelor of Architecture subjects explain design concepts, space articulation, visualizing the basic structure through drawings, and other simple and advanced techniques such as two-dimensional graphic design to fulfill the objective of becoming a vital communication tool in architecture.
TechnologyLighting and Acoustical Design, Theory of Structures, Electrification These subjects introduce the theory underlying the building design's use of structures, electrification, lighting, and acoustics.
HumanitiesArt and Architecture Appreciation, Urban Design StudiesThese subjects provide an introduction to the fundamental ideas of urban design, city comprehension, and problem-solving at the building-interface level. These issues include appreciation of structure, color, new designs, etc.
Environment/SustainabilityWastewater Management, Climate-Responsive DesignThese subjects introduce climate factors and how architecture adapts to changing climatic circumstances. Moreover, it helps the students to discover the ideas behind developing bioclimatic building designs, studying drainage and water supply norms and standards, taking into account plumbing design in structures, etc.

Quick Link: Career as Architect

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Syllabus for Bachelor of Architecture Distance Programs

Distance education in the B Arch Program is available from several colleges. The Bachelor in Architecture course may be taken through distance learning for a total of seven years. There is no upper age limit for taking this course online. To take this course, candidates must meet the basic requirements to be eligible i.e. Students should have obtained a 10th+3-year diploma from any reputable central or state government college with a minimum aggregate percentage of 50%

The Bachelor of Architecture syllabus for the distance program's course is the same as that of the on-campus program, although given the number of semesters and length of the program, the courses, projects, and thesis may vary.

Quick Link: Top B.Arch Colleges in Uttar Pradesh 2024

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Bachelor of Architecture Entrance Exam Syllabus

Some of the Major Bachelor of Architecture Entrance Exams are-

Joint Entrance Examination (JEE Advanced and JEE Main)- JEE exams are required for admissions in top government colleges in India, such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), the National Institute of Technology (NIT), the School of Planning and Architecture, and others. The JEE Main 2024 Architecture syllabus has been listed below.

JEE Main 2024 BArch Syllabus

UNIT 1 

  • Mental Ability (Visual, Numerical, and Verbal)
  • Visualizing different sides of three-dimensional objects 
  • Visualizing three-dimensional objects from two-dimensional drawings 
  • Awareness of persons, buildings, materials, objects, and textures related to Architecture and the Environment
  • Analytical reasoning 

UNIT - 2 

  • Creating two-dimensional and three-dimensional compositions using given shapes and forms 
  • Transformation of forms in both 2D and 3D union, subtraction rotation, development of surfaces and volumes 
  • Design and drawing of geometrical or abstract shapes and patterns in pencil 
  • Three-dimensional perception: Understanding and appreciation of scale and proportions of objects, building forms and elements, color texture harmony, and contrast 
  • Generation of plans, elevations, and 3D views of objects

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National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA)- This is a national-level undergraduate exam conducted by the Council of Architecture (COA) for admission to India's top private colleges.

Other than the above-mentioned exams, many private institutes conduct entrance exams to get admission to their colleges. These include the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology Entrance Examination (KIITEE), the BS Abdur Rahman University B. Arch Entrance Exam (BSAUEEE), and the Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science Engineering Entrance Examination (HITSEEE).

NATA 2024 Syllabus

Numerical ReasoningVerbal Reasoning
Diagrammatic ReasoningLogical Reasoning
Inductive ReasoningSituational Judgment
Abstract Reasoning-

These architecture entrance exams cover subjects such as 

  • Mathematics
  • General Aptitude
  • Drawing 
  • Reasoning
  • Situational Judgment
  • Basic Techniques of Building Construction
  • General Knowledge and Current Affairs
  • Color Theory
  • Graphics and images, and so on

Quick Link: Top Architecture Entrance Exams in India 2024

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Bachelor of Architecture Important Books

Efficient learning in B Arch is possible only when students make sure that they follow the best material in terms of books according to their Syllabus. Given below is a list of the best books that students should follow for BArch along with their authors’ names-

SubjectBook TitleAuthor
Modern World ArchitectureThe Sourcebook of Contemporary ArchitectureVidiella
Architectural DesignTime saver standards for Architectural Design - Technical Data for Professional PracticeWatson, McGraw-Hill
Sustainable ArchitectureThe Green Building RevolutionJerry Yudison
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Bachelor of Architecture Course Structure

The B.Arch program is aimed to teach students how to manage learning spaces for optimal utility and to plan and design buildings. Core mathematics is not frequently used in this subject. The program structure includes subjects that focus on things like

  • Design
  • Software
  • History/Tradition
  • Structures
  • Environmental Science/ Connections/Supply


The Bachelor of Architecture program teaches students about various aspects of designing buildings, such as urban and interior design, pricing, and cost estimation. They also learn about topics like environmental studies and how to create architectural graphics.

Throughout the course, students develop skills like drawing and building with graphics and 3D models. Each semester, students need to earn a certain number of credits to pass, which varies depending on the college. In their final year, students complete a thesis project that helps determine if they graduate or not.

Also read: M.Arch Course

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FAQs about Bachelor of Architecture Syllabus

What are the subjects in BArch?

Some of the subjects in BArch are Architectural Design, Theory of Structures, Building Sciences, Building Technology and Materials, etc.
 

Does BArch need maths?

Yes, BArch requires maths. Without mathematics, candidates will not be able to take admission to BArch courses.
 

Is BArch hard?

According to student feedback, the Mathematics section of the BArch entrance exam covers a range of topics and has some lengthy questions, while the difficulty level was described as easy to moderate.
 

What is the syllabus for BArch entrance exam?

Some of the topics covered in the BArch entrance exam are Differential Equations, Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Trigonometry, Matrices, and Statistics.
 

What is Aptitude Test in B Arch?

Colleges often use an Applititute Test to measure a student's overall ability for a BArch course. This test checks whether the student has strong analytical, verbal, conceptual, and logical skills. During the test, the student will be asked to answer questions that require verbal, abstract, conceptual, and numerical reasoning abilities. The results of this test are used to evaluate the student's potential for academic success.
 

Are there any internships available under B Arch curriculum?

Some Bachelor of Architecture courses require students to complete internships or practical training periods. These opportunities give students a chance to gain hands-on experience in the field of architecture by applying what they've learned in the classroom to real-world situations.
 

How is the assessment executed in the B.Arch course?

In the BArch course, there are different ways that students are evaluated. This can include taking exams, giving presentations, having design reviews, and submitting portfolios. Studio projects are often a big part of how a student is graded, as they focus on applying architectural theories to real-world situations.
 

What is the scope of BArch?

The industry for architecture services is expected to grow to $395 billion by 2025, which means there will be more jobs and chances for architects to advance their careers. If you're an architect, it's a good idea to travel to different countries to see the different types of architecture that exist. This can give you a better understanding of how architecture varies across the world.
 

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