Bachelor of Architecture Program

The Bachelor of Architecture program prepares future architects by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and design excellence. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, students are equipped to address global challenges with a focus on sustainability, innovation, digital technologies, and cultural awareness.

Study Plan

The study plan for the Bachelor of Architecture program is as follows:

Fall (Year 1)

• ARC 100: Architectural Design Studio 1 (4 credits)
• ARC 130: Hand and Digital Sketching (2 credits)
• MAT 101: Calculus I (3 credits)
• PHU 103: Mechanics and Waves for Engineers (3 credits)
• PHU 103 L: Mechanics and Waves for Engineers Labs (1 credit)
• ARB 101: Arabic Language I (2 credits)
• COE 100: Student Orientation and Academic Success (1 credit)
• ARE 120: Drafting and Drawing (1 credit)
• ARE 120-S: Drafting and Drawing Lab (2 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 19

Spring (Year 1)

• ARC 101: Architecture Design Studio 2 (4 credits)
• ENG 101: Freshman English 1 (3 credits)
• ARC 140: Introduction to Architecture and the Built Environment (3 credits)
• ARC 132: Digital Drawing and Modelling (3 credits)
• ISL 101: Islamic Studies I (2 credits)
• ARC 110: Architectural History and Theory I (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 18

Fall (Year 2)

• ARC 202: Architectural Design Studio 3 (4 credits)
• ARC 233: Advanced Digital Visualization (2 credits)
• ARC 211: Architectural History and Theory II (3 credits)
• ARC 220: Structure Systems I (3 credits)
• ARE 231: Building Materials and Construction Technology (3 credits)
• ARE 231 L: Building Materials and Construction Technology Lab (1 credit)
• ARC 222: Building Construction I (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 19

Spring (Year 2)

• ARC 203: Architectural Design Studio 4 (4 credits)
• ARC 223: Structure Systems II (3 credits)
• ARC 234: Integrated Visual Design (3 credits)
• ARC 241: Sustainability and Environmental Design (3 credits)
• ARC 212: Architectural History and Theory III (3 credits)
• ARC 224: Building Construction II (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 19

Fall (Year 3)

• ARC 304: Architectural Design Studio 5 (4 credits)
• ARC 342: Computational Architecture I (3 credits)
• ARC 325: Environmental Control (3 credits)
• ARC 326: Acoustics and lighting (3 credits)
• ARC 350: Surveying (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 16

Spring (Year 3)

• ARC 305: Architectural Design Studio 6 (4 credits)
• ARC 327: Envelope System Design (3 credits)
• ENG 222: Technical Writing (3 credits)
• ARE 220: Construction Drawing (CAD) (2 credits)
• ARE 220 S: Construction Drawing (CAD) Studio (2 credits)
• ARC 343: Urban Design (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 17

Summer

• ARC 390: Internship I

Fall (Year 4)

• ARC 406: Architectural Design Studio 7 (5 credits)
• General Elective - I (3 credits)
• ARC 451: Contract and Quantity Surveying (3 credits)
• ARC 444: Computational Architecture II (3 credits)
• ARC 445: Urban Planning (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 17

Spring (Year 4)

• ARC 407: Architectural Design Studio 8 (5 credits)
• General Elective - II (3 credits)
• ARC 452: Professional Practice (3 credits)
• ARC 436: Construction Drawings II (2 credits)
• ARC 436 S: Construction Drawings II Studio (2 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 15

Fall (Year 5)

• ARC 508: Architectural Studio 9 (6 credits)
• ARC---Elective 1: Concentration Track (3 credits)
• ARC---Elective 2: Concentration Track (3 credits)
• ARC 598: Pre-Undergraduate Design Project (2 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 14

Spring (Year 5)

• ARC 599: Undergraduate Design Project (6 credits)
• ARC---Elective 3: Concentration Track (3 credits)
• ARE 499: ARC Elective III (3 credits)
• ARC Elective IIII (3 credits)
• Sub-Total Credits: 15

Tracks

The Bachelor of Architecture program offers four tracks:

Track 1: AI in Architecture Track (AIA)

This track focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into the architectural design process, empowering students to leverage machine learning and AI tools for creating intelligent, data-driven designs. Students will delve into generative design algorithms, AI-powered simulations, and performance analysis to develop innovative solutions.

Track Plan

• Fall (Year 4): ARC 508: Architectural Studio 9 (6 credits)
• Spring (Year 4):

Track 2: Digital and Parametric Architecture (DPA)

This track combines advanced digital tools and parametric methodologies to enable students to create innovative and performance-driven architectural designs. The curriculum integrates computational design, parametric modeling, and digital fabrication techniques, focusing on both conceptual exploration and practical applications.

Track Plan

• Fall (Year 4): ARC 508: Architectural Studio 9 (6 credits)
• Spring (Year 4):

Track 3: Computational Landscape Design (CLD)

This track emphasizes the integration of computational tools and methods in landscape design to create sustainable and innovative outdoor spaces. Students will explore the use of parametric modeling, simulation tools, and geographic information systems (GIS) to design ecologically sensitive landscapes that respond to environmental challenges.

Track Plan

• Fall (Year 4): ARC 508: Architectural Studio 9 (6 credits), ARC---Elective 1: Concentration Track (3 credits), ARC---Elective 2: Concentration Track (3 credits)
• Spring (Year 4): ARC---Elective 3: Concentration Track (3 credits)

Track 4: Computational Interior Design (CID)

This track integrates advanced computational tools and methods into the interior design process, empowering students to create innovative, functional, and performance-driven interior spaces. The curriculum emphasizes parametric design, material optimization, and data-driven strategies to enhance user experience and spatial efficiency.

Track Plan

• Fall (Year 4): ARC 508: Architectural Studio 9 (6 credits), ARC---Elective 1: Concentration Track (3 credits), ARC---Elective 2: Concentration Track (3 credits)
• Spring (Year 4): ARC---Elective 3: Concentration Track (3 credits)

Al Faisal University: A Comprehensive Overview

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Overview:

Al Faisal University is a student-centered institution dedicated to creating and disseminating knowledge through world-class undergraduate and graduate programs, research, and service. It aims to benefit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the region, and the world, stimulating the development of knowledge-based economies. The university prides itself on its innovative academic programs, hands-on opportunities, and rigorous coursework, preparing students for a complex global society.

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Services Offered:

Al Faisal University offers a range of services to its students, including:

Financial Aid:

Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available to students.

Counseling:

The Counseling and Skills Development Unit (CSDU) promotes a welcoming atmosphere conducive to student well-being, personal growth, and psychological health.

Enrichment Programs:

Alfaisal University Enrichment Programs (AUEP) bridge the gap between high school and university, delivering knowledge and skills in a wide range of evolving fields.

Events & Activities:

With over 50 student organizations, the university offers a vibrant campus community with opportunities for participation in sports, theatre, photography, and cultural groups.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Al Faisal University fosters a positive, fun, and friendly student culture. The university strives to create a welcoming environment and provide resources for student success, including:

Freshmen Orientation:

Helps new students acclimate to campus life.

Study and Tutoring Sessions:

Provide academic support.

Counseling Services:

Offer guidance and support.

Job and Internship Fairs:

Connect students with career opportunities.

Recreational Activities:

Promote well-being and social interaction.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

Recognized as one of the world's top 200 institutions under 50 years old, Al Faisal University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings.

Small Class Sizes:

With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, students receive personalized attention and opportunities for interaction with faculty.

World-Class Faculty:

The university boasts internationally acclaimed researchers and scholars who provide mentorship and guidance.

Friendly Environment:

The university fosters a welcoming and supportive community.

Centrally Located:

Situated in Riyadh, the university is accessible to major highways and the KFSHRC teaching hospital.

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Academic Programs:

The context does not provide specific details about the academic programs offered at Al Faisal University. However, it mentions that the university offers world-class undergraduate and graduate programs.

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