Department of Architecture and Planning – IIT Roorkee

Overview

The Department of Architecture and Planning at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee is one of the oldest and most prestigious architecture departments in India. Established in 1956, the department has a rich legacy in shaping some of the finest architects and planners in the country. Initially starting as a department offering a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) program, it has since expanded to offer a wide range of postgraduate programs and research opportunities.

The department is known for its focus on sustainable architecture, urban planning, and cutting-edge design techniques. With access to the advanced resources of IIT Roorkee, it blends technical knowledge with creative design thinking, preparing students to tackle real-world challenges in the built environment. The department’s alumni have made significant contributions to the field of architecture and urban development both in India and globally.

Courses Offered

The Department of Architecture and Planning offers a variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, each tailored to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

Undergraduate Program:

• Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.):
  The B.Arch. program is a five-year course designed to provide a thorough grounding in architectural design, theory, and practice. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including design studios, building materials, construction techniques, structural systems, and environmental design. Students also gain experience in working with advanced architectural software and technologies, enhancing their technical skills along with their design sensibilities.

Postgraduate Programs:

• Master of Architecture (M.Arch.):
  This two-year program focuses on advanced architectural design and research. It covers topics such as urban design, conservation, heritage management, and sustainable architecture. Students engage in design studios, research projects, and seminars, with a focus on problem-solving and innovation in the field of architecture.
• Master of Urban and Rural Planning (MURP):
  The MURP program is aimed at producing skilled professionals who can address the challenges of urbanization, rural development, and regional planning. The course covers subjects such as land use planning, transportation planning, housing policy, environmental management, and infrastructure development.

Doctoral Program (Ph.D.):
The department offers a Ph.D. program that enables students to pursue research in diverse areas of architecture and urban planning. Areas of research include sustainable design, smart cities, urban governance, landscape architecture, and heritage conservation. Students work closely with faculty members who are leading experts in their fields, often collaborating with industry and government agencies.

Admission Process

The admission process at IIT Roorkee is highly competitive, with students gaining entry based on national-level entrance exams. The department seeks candidates with a passion for design and a strong academic foundation in architecture and planning.

• B.Arch.: Admission to the undergraduate B.Arch. program is through the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced and the subsequent Architecture Aptitude Test (AAT). Candidates must first qualify for JEE Advanced and then clear the AAT, which tests their drawing, analytical, and creative skills.
• M.Arch. and MURP: Admission to the postgraduate programs is through the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), with specialization in architecture and planning fields. A valid GATE score is mandatory, and students are selected based on merit.
• Ph.D.: Admission to the Ph.D. program is based on performance in the written test and interview conducted by IIT Roorkee. Candidates are also evaluated based on their academic record and research proposal.

Fees Structure

The fee structure for the Department of Architecture and Planning at IIT Roorkee is relatively affordable compared to other private institutions, given its status as a government-funded IIT.

In addition, IIT Roorkee offers scholarships and financial aid for meritorious students and those from economically weaker sections. Scholarships like the Merit-cum-Means Scholarship and the Institute Free Studentship help reduce the financial burden for deserving candidates.

Placements

The Department of Architecture and Planning at IIT Roorkee boasts excellent placement records, with students being recruited by top architectural firms, urban planning consultancies, real estate companies, government bodies, and international organizations.

• Top Recruiters: Leading architectural firms like Hafeez Contractor, Morphogenesis, CP Kukreja Architects, and multinational companies such as Atkins, Arcadis, and AECOM, frequently recruit students from the department. Additionally, many graduates join urban development authorities, government planning bodies, and NGOs working in rural and urban development.
• Highest Package: ₹ 20-25 LPA, particularly in specialized architectural and urban planning consultancies.
• Average Package: ₹ 8-10 LPA, with students placed across diverse sectors.
• Entrepreneurship: Many graduates from the department venture into establishing their own architecture firms or join research institutions, contributing to academic and practical advancements in architecture and planning.

Infrastructure

IIT Roorkee provides world-class infrastructure and resources for the Department of Architecture and Planning. The facilities are designed to enhance the learning experience by combining practical exposure with theoretical learning.

• Studios: The design studios are equipped with modern drawing boards, drafting tools, and advanced software, providing students with hands-on training in architectural design.
• Laboratories: The department has specialized labs for materials testing, structural analysis, environmental design, and computer-aided design (CAD). These labs help students in gaining practical knowledge and conducting research.
• Workshops: The workshops are well-equipped for model-making, carpentry, and metalworking. These facilities enable students to explore physical forms and materiality, vital for their architectural projects.
• Library: IIT Roorkee’s library has an extensive collection of books, journals, and research papers on architecture, urban planning, and related fields. Students also have access to online databases, ensuring they stay updated with the latest trends and research in the field.
• Hostels: The campus provides comfortable accommodation for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, recreation rooms, and sports facilities.

Faculty

The Department of Architecture and Planning at IIT Roorkee has a highly qualified and experienced faculty team, many of whom are renowned experts in their respective fields. The faculty members are actively involved in research, consultancy projects, and teaching, ensuring that students receive both theoretical and practical knowledge.

Faculty members regularly contribute to national and international conferences, publish research papers, and collaborate with industries and government bodies on projects. Their expertise spans a range of areas such as sustainable architecture, urban governance, building technology, and cultural heritage conservation.

Research and Innovation

Research is a core focus of the department. Students and faculty engage in projects that address contemporary issues in architecture and urban planning, such as climate change, sustainable cities, affordable housing, and smart city initiatives. The department collaborates with national and international organizations to work on research projects funded by government agencies, NGOs, and private sector companies.

The department also houses research centers like the Centre for Urban Planning and Sustainable Development, which focuses on urban resilience and sustainability practices. Students are encouraged to participate in these research projects, which often lead to publications in leading journals and participation in international forums.

Conclusion

The Department of Architecture and Planning at IIT Roorkee is a premier institution for those aspiring to make a mark in the fields of architecture and urban planning. With a legacy of excellence, world-class infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on research and innovation, it provides students with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to excel in their careers. Graduates of the department are well-equipped to contribute to the creation of sustainable and innovative built environments, both in India and globally.