Georgian University

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

• 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)

• 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

• 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)

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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)

• 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:

1. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of architectural design principles, history, and theory.
2. Develop innovative and contextually appropriate architectural designs.
3. Apply technical skills in structural systems, environmental control, and material use.
4. Integrate sustainable and ethical practices into architectural design and planning.
5. Communicate design ideas effectively through drawings, models, and digital media.
6. Conduct research and critical analysis to inform design processes.
7. Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement.
8. 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