Comprehensive Course Structure
The Architectural Assistantship program at Jaswant Singh Rawat Government Polytechnic Bironkhal is meticulously structured over three years, with a progressive curriculum that builds upon foundational knowledge and introduces specialized skills in the field. The program includes core subjects, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions designed to foster both technical proficiency and creative design capabilities.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1, Semester 1 | ARCH-101 | Introduction to Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | ARCH-102 | Architectural Drawing & Drafting | 2-0-2-4 | - |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | MATH-101 | Applied Mathematics I | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | PHY-101 | Physics for Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 1, Semester 1 | CHEM-101 | Chemistry for Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | ARCH-103 | Architectural History & Theory | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-101 |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | ARCH-104 | Building Materials & Construction | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | MATH-102 | Applied Mathematics II | 3-0-0-3 | MATH-101 |
| Year 1, Semester 2 | ENG-101 | English Communication Skills | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | ARCH-201 | Environmental Controls | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-104 |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | ARCH-202 | Structural Systems in Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | ARCH-203 | Design Studio I | 0-0-4-4 | ARCH-101 |
| Year 2, Semester 3 | MATH-201 | Statistics & Probability | 3-0-0-3 | MATH-102 |
| Year 2, Semester 4 | ARCH-204 | Urban Planning & Development | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-103 |
| Year 2, Semester 4 | ARCH-205 | Interior Design Principles | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| Year 2, Semester 4 | ARCH-206 | Design Studio II | 0-0-4-4 | ARCH-203 |
| Year 3, Semester 5 | ARCH-301 | Sustainable Architecture | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-204 |
| Year 3, Semester 5 | ARCH-302 | Digital Design & Modeling | 3-0-2-5 | - |
| Year 3, Semester 5 | ARCH-303 | Heritage Conservation | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-103 |
| Year 3, Semester 6 | ARCH-304 | Smart City Development | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-204 |
| Year 3, Semester 6 | ARCH-305 | Disaster Resilient Construction | 3-0-0-3 | ARCH-202 |
| Year 3, Semester 6 | ARCH-306 | Final Year Project | 0-0-8-12 | - |
Detailed Departmental Elective Courses
The department offers a wide range of advanced elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas of interest. These courses are designed to enhance practical skills and provide exposure to emerging trends in architecture.
Architectural History & Theory: This course delves into the evolution of architectural styles, movements, and philosophies from ancient times to modernity. Students explore how historical contexts shape design decisions and learn critical analysis techniques for evaluating architectural works.
Sustainable Architecture: Focused on environmental responsibility and resource efficiency, this course introduces students to green building practices, renewable energy systems, and sustainable materials. Practical sessions involve designing low-carbon buildings that meet international certification standards like LEED and BREEAM.
Digital Design & Modeling: Leveraging advanced software tools, this course teaches parametric modeling, 3D visualization, and virtual reality applications in architecture. Students gain proficiency in BIM platforms such as Revit and Rhino, enabling them to create dynamic architectural models and simulations.
Heritage Conservation: Designed for students interested in preserving cultural artifacts, this course covers documentation methods, restoration techniques, and legal frameworks governing heritage preservation. Practical training includes site visits to historical monuments and workshops on traditional construction methods.
Urban Planning & Development: This course provides insights into city planning processes, zoning regulations, and infrastructure development. Students learn how to analyze urban growth patterns, assess social needs, and propose sustainable solutions for community development.
Interior Design Principles: Exploring the intersection of aesthetics and functionality, this course covers space planning, lighting design, and material selection for interior environments. Practical assignments involve designing residential and commercial interiors that meet user requirements and regulatory standards.
Structural Systems in Architecture: This course bridges architecture and engineering by examining structural behavior, load distribution, and safety considerations. Students learn to integrate structural elements seamlessly into architectural designs while ensuring compliance with building codes.
Environmental Controls: Addressing climate responsiveness, this course explores HVAC systems, thermal comfort, daylighting strategies, and energy efficiency measures. Hands-on sessions involve modeling environmental conditions using software tools like EnergyPlus and Ecotect.
Disaster Resilient Construction: This elective focuses on designing structures that can withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and cyclones. Students learn seismic design principles, retrofitting techniques, and risk assessment methodologies.
Smart City Development: Integrating technology with urban planning, this course introduces students to smart infrastructure, data analytics, and IoT applications in city development. Practical components include designing smart transportation systems, intelligent lighting networks, and digital governance platforms.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department strongly emphasizes project-based learning as a core component of the curriculum. Students engage in both individual and group projects throughout their academic journey, culminating in a final year capstone project that integrates all learned concepts.
Mini-projects are assigned at regular intervals during each semester, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. These projects are evaluated based on creativity, technical accuracy, and presentation quality. Faculty members serve as mentors, providing guidance and feedback throughout the process.
The final-year thesis/capstone project is a comprehensive endeavor that spans several months. Students select a topic relevant to current industry challenges or personal interests, working closely with a faculty mentor. The project involves extensive research, design development, modeling, and documentation. A formal presentation before a panel of experts ensures that students demonstrate mastery in their chosen area.
Project selection is facilitated through a structured process involving interest surveys, topic discussions, and mentor availability. Students are encouraged to propose innovative ideas or address real-world problems identified through field research or industry collaboration.