Curriculum Overview
The curriculum of the Architectural Assistantship program at Government Polytechnic Bachalikhal is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive education that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students progress through eight semesters, each building upon the previous one to ensure a progressive and holistic learning experience.
Semester-wise Course Structure
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ARCH-101 | Introduction to Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | ARCH-102 | Architectural Drawing I | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 1 | ARCH-103 | Visual Arts and Design Fundamentals | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 1 | MATH-101 | Mathematics for Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | SCI-101 | Science for Designers | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | ARCH-201 | Architectural Drawing II | 2-0-0-2 | ARCH-102 |
| 2 | ARCH-202 | History of Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | ARCH-203 | Building Technology I | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | MATH-201 | Applied Mathematics for Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | MATH-101 |
| 2 | SCI-201 | Physics for Architects | 3-0-0-3 | SCI-101 |
| 3 | ARCH-301 | Structural Analysis | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-203 |
| 3 | ARCH-302 | Environmental Systems | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 3 | ARCH-303 | Computer-Aided Design I | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 3 | ARCH-304 | Design Studio I | 4-0-0-4 | - |
| 4 | ARCH-401 | Building Technology II | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-203 |
| 4 | ARCH-402 | Construction Materials | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 4 | ARCH-403 | Computer-Aided Design II | 2-0-0-2 | ARCH-303 |
| 4 | ARCH-404 | Design Studio II | 4-0-0-4 | ARCH-304 |
| 5 | ARCH-501 | Urban Planning | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 5 | ARCH-502 | Sustainable Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 5 | ARCH-503 | Digital Fabrication Techniques | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 5 | ARCH-504 | Design Studio III | 4-0-0-4 | ARCH-404 |
| 6 | ARCH-601 | Heritage Conservation | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 6 | ARCH-602 | Parametric Design | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 6 | ARCH-603 | Landscape Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 6 | ARCH-604 | Design Studio IV | 4-0-0-4 | ARCH-504 |
| 7 | ARCH-701 | Project Management | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 7 | ARCH-702 | Interior Design | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 7 | ARCH-703 | Research Methodology | 2-0-0-2 | - |
| 7 | ARCH-704 | Mini Project | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 8 | ARCH-801 | Final Year Thesis/Capstone Project | 6-0-0-6 | - |
Advanced Departmental Electives
Advanced departmental electives in the Architectural Assistantship program are designed to deepen students' expertise and broaden their perspectives on contemporary architectural challenges. These courses include:
- Green Building Technology: This course explores sustainable construction practices, renewable energy systems, and green certification standards such as LEED and BREEAM.
- Renewable Energy Systems: Students learn to integrate solar, wind, and hydroelectric power sources into architectural designs, ensuring buildings are both efficient and environmentally responsible.
- Environmental Impact Assessment: This course teaches students how to evaluate the ecological consequences of architectural projects and develop mitigation strategies.
- Climate Responsive Architecture: Students study regional climates and learn to design buildings that respond naturally to environmental conditions, reducing energy consumption and improving comfort.
- Smart City Planning: This elective covers urban design principles for smart cities, integrating IoT, data analytics, and digital infrastructure into planning processes.
- Urban Design Studio: Through this studio-based course, students engage in large-scale urban planning projects, working with real communities to address challenges such as housing, transportation, and public spaces.
- Parametric Modeling: Students use advanced software tools like Grasshopper, Dynamo, and Rhino to create complex architectural forms through algorithmic processes.
- Digital Fabrication: This course introduces students to 3D printing, CNC machining, and robotic construction techniques, enabling them to prototype designs quickly and accurately.
- Heritage Conservation and Restoration: Students learn to preserve historical structures while integrating modern amenities, balancing preservation with functionality.
- Sustainable Urbanism: This course examines how urban form can be designed to promote sustainability, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance quality of life.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department's philosophy on project-based learning emphasizes experiential education that connects academic knowledge with real-world applications. Students engage in both mini-projects and a final-year thesis/capstone project that spans the entire program.
Mini-projects are undertaken during the third and fourth years, allowing students to explore specific areas of interest under faculty mentorship. These projects typically involve collaboration with local communities or organizations, providing practical experience in problem-solving and stakeholder engagement.
The final-year thesis/capstone project is a significant undertaking that requires students to demonstrate their mastery of architectural principles through an original design solution. Students select topics based on personal interest, faculty guidance, and industry relevance, often resulting in publishable research or implemented designs.
Evaluation criteria for these projects include innovation, technical feasibility, environmental impact, presentation quality, and alignment with program objectives. Faculty mentors play a crucial role in guiding students through the research and design process, offering feedback and support throughout the project lifecycle.