In formulating of this agenda one of the key processes involved was a review of the conventionally existing modes of architectural education, research and practice.
Balwant Sheth School of Architecture should learn from past, envision the future, redefine, enhance, integrate the present and constantly evolve.
“Holistic perception and its translation in three dimensions…” was the virtue of the Classical Architect. Architect perceived, analyzed and synthesized the third dimension. Classical Architect communicated the concepts to the team. In fact the Architect managed the design and designed the management process. In the present scenario, such creative leadership qualities need to be rekindled in education.
Practice of Architecture constantly needs to understand the ever changing ethos, behavioral sciences, tools and techniques, and assimilate all in contemporary design expression.
NMIMS constantly attempts to apply this thought to its other branches of Education.
- One of the prime questions that were raised involved the conventional role of the architect as mere provider of the services according to the market laws of demand and supply; or as technicians providing sound building solutions.
- Right from inception of this new school, the attempt is to open up the architecture and design towards other fields ranging from socio cultural studies to management studies. This would be the primary concern of the formulators of the agenda that the school would follow.
- Thus the role of the school would be determined by the attempt to create the appropriate academic environment for such an endeavor.
- Our endeavor at the new school would be to constantly adapt and infuse new concepts, technologies and management skills that would affect the field of architectural education and profession at large.
Balwant Sheth School of Architecture would award a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), under the five years degree program of NMIMS University. This degree program is recognized by the Council of Architecture.
There are total 40 seats.
- The objective of this B. Arch course is to develop students, over a period of five years, by rigorous academics and fieldwork. Students would be offered holistic exposure and understanding through Art, History, Technology, Architectural Design and Construction process. Students will spend 15 to 18 weeks internship in Architectural, Planning and Construction Firms. The university follows a trimester system.
- Every week, one day is devoted to fieldwork in every trimester involving visits to significant buildings, sites including project offices of the architects and construction managers. Total fieldwork will exceed 50 hours and require 20 hours of data analysis.
- In addition, students are required to devote at least 40 hours per week per academics.
On successful completion of five years, NMIMS University would offer B. Arch Degree recognized by the Council of Architecture.
- Studios and Workshops – Individual, computer connected comfortable work spaces.
- Library and Resource Center – In addition to University Library, SOA is compiling an extensive physical and electronic library
- Computer Lab – All students have individual connected computers in addition to a Comp lab.
- Workshop – A modern workshop for wood, steel and clay is being developed in addition to the on campus sophisticated workshop of the other colleges.
Lecture Hall and Audio – Visual Facilities – Apart from Studios, AV facilities at various places on campus