The Standard Curriculum of a Degree Course in Bachelor of Architecture
The growing awareness in the importance of architects has greatly increased the number of people enrolling for a course in Bachelor of Architecture at a global scale. People are now more aware regarding what this particular form of art and science can do for them. The increased demand has led to more colleges and universities offering the course which has directly resulted to an increase in the supply of professionals. Architecture is no longer considered just at technical profession but also as a delicate art form and an advanced intellectual discipline. Its popularity is brought about by the fact that it is directly related to the biggest sector of the economy which is Housing and Construction.
The Job
The creation and execution of a building design and resolving any problems that arise in relation to it is the primary task of an architect. The architect therefore needs a strong foundation of the needed knowledge as well as good assessment and decision making skills.
The Curriculum
The standard course of Bachelor in Architecture focuses on achieving a very high state of contextual excellence through a combination of theoretical and practical exercises. The programme requires mastery of multiple disciplines and the input and evaluation of experts in numerous fields especially arts, engineering and technology, humanities, and professional practices is a necessity. Students are to be taught not only about space and construction environment but also about aesthetics because the profession requires the ability to interact with people: understanding others and making others understand.
The Skills
Architectural presentation is the most important skill in the profession because it is vital that the architect is able to express all the necessary details in diagrams and blueprints that are easy to understand. Therefore, drawing is necessary and should be taught in the early stages of the course. Research and writing is also important since the professional should be able to analyse and acquire the data and information that he needs and then document everything. He should also be proficient in the latest computer applications and equipped with the necessary technical knowledge to make his work faster and easier. Managerial ability particularly in problem detection and solving is also essential because he is likely to encounter several issues in the course of a project.
The Stages
The standard curriculum spans for five years and is composed of two phases. The first phase which includes the first three years is all about theories and knowledge foundation. The last 20 weeks of the first phase is centred on practical training aimed at providing students with actual experience in designing and constructing structures. The first 18 months of the second phase will be devoted on writing a research paper and presenting it to a panel of experts. This is to allow the students to experience how an actual project is made. The last six months will involve numerous seminars and workshops will also be conducted to supplement the knowledge and skills of the participants as well as to expose them to the latest innovations and newest ways of thinking.
Job Preparation
The course of Bachelor of Science in Architecture should not end without preparing the students of the numerous employment opportunities that will be made available to them after completing the degree as well as the several advancements they can choose from is they opt to further their studies. Architects can be employed in any sector be it public, private, NGOs, or multinational entities.
