Department of Architecture, Planning and Design
The Department of Architecture, Planning and Design was established in 2019. There were many compelling reasons for the establishment of the Department One of the major reason was the existing urban settlements which faces problems of housing, employment, infrastructure and transport. More over since Indian economy is growing as well as globalizing, Indian cities and towns will have to face international competition for attracting global capital which is so essential for sustaining current and future economic growth of India.

Programmes
- B.Tech.
- The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.) programme teaches students the fundamentals and advanced skills of architecture over five years. The admission to B.Arch. Program in the Department of Architecture, Planning and Design is offered through the most prestigious Joint Entrance Examination (Advanced), conducted by IITs of the country. The aspirant also must qualify for the Architecture Aptitude Test (AAT) to enrol in the B. Arch. program. The curriculum combines theoretical and applied study to give students a well-rounded foundation in the arts and sciences to become effective architects. These programmes encompass architectural design, building materials and structures, the history and theory of architecture, environmental studies, urban planning, landscape architecture, and sustainable design. In addition to the primary curriculum, the programme offers numerous electives, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career objectives. The curriculum emphasizes studio-based learning, where students collaborate, investigate, and hone their design skills under the guidance of qualified faculties. These studios foster imagination, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Graduates of the programme are eligible to work as architects, urban designers, and landscape architects or to continue their education in architecture. They will be equipped with the knowledge, abilities, and morals necessary to enhance the built environment and lead the profession.
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)
- The PhD Programme in Architecture, Planning, and Design at IIT (BHU) Varanasi provides a stimulating research environment for aspiring scholars. The prestigious Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme is a rigorous and comprehensive research-based degree that provides an unmatched opportunity for aspiring architecture academicians and researchers. Admissions to the Programme occur twice per academic year, typically in May and December, with detailed eligibility criteria and announcements on the institute's website. PhD students conduct research on a problem of their choosing under the supervision of a faculty mentor or mentors following the conclusion of their coursework, which typically lasts up to one semester. This extended research period provides a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity that nurtures the growth of scientific temperament and improves technical communication skills. In addition to research, the PhD programme encourages students to participate actively in academic conferences, seminars, and workshops on a national and international scale. These opportunities allow students to present their research findings, receive feedback from subject-matter experts, and develop valuable academic and professional networks. Typically, completing the Ph. D. programme requires publishing more than two research papers in reputable peer-reviewed journals, enriching the educational voyage of the student. The IIT (BHU) Varanasi PG manual details the eligibility requirements for all PhD admissions.
Recruitment
Faculty Recruitment: Specializations
Preferred specializations for Faculty Recruitment in the Department of Architecture, Planning and Design are as follows:
- Landscape Architecture
- Housing
- Urban Resilience and Disaster Management
- Building Services (MEP)
- Design, Theory, and Criticism
- Spatial Visual Communication
For further details and application form Click Here
Department News
The department is collaborating with the Architecture Culture Spirituality Forum, USA, to host the 15th Annual Symposium on January 8–11, 2026. Within the overarching theme of “Myths and Place-making,” sessions will be organized around the following subthemes:
- Sacred architecture as a celebration of place myths
- Visual culture, architectural form, and mythology
- Place stories and their re-enactments in place-making
- Nature veneration, spatial practices, and climate resilience
For further details, the official symposium link may be referred: Click Here
Distinguished Visitors
Upcoming Events




Recent Events
- Only One Earth by Department of Architecture, Planning and Design, IIT (BHU) Varanasi (June 05, 2022)
- Ethos Virtual Roadshow (September 30, 2022)
- Reconnect with Building Materials: an Exhibition (November 10–18, 2022)
- Republic Day of India Celebrations (January 26, 2023)
- Solution to Plastic Pollution by Department of Architecture, Planning and Design, IIT (BHU) Varanasi (June 05, 2023)
Strength of IIT (BHU) for Department of Architecture, Planning and Design
The Department of Architecture, Planning, and Design has a unique opportunity to collaborate with other departments within the prestigious institution, nurturing a multidisciplinary approach to education and enhancing the student learning experience. By collaborating with other departments, we will be able to utilize the immense knowledge and expertise of a variety of disciplines, thereby enhancing the breadth and depth of architectural education. By utilizing the knowledge of various disciplines, the department can provide an enriched educational experience that enables students to become versatile architects capable of addressing complex societal challenges. These interdisciplinary collaborations cultivate an innovative culture, encourage creative problem-solving, and equip the graduates with the comprehensive skill set required to excel in the ever-changing field of architecture.
Impact of the Department of Architecture, Planning and Design on IIT (BHU)
The Department of Architecture, Planning, and Design is a department brimming with creative, youthful minds. It plays a crucial role in devising the institute's various events and other elements. During convocation events, the department provides design support under the direction of the Hon'ble Director. The department creates most of the graphics and installations on the campus. In addition, the department designed the signage for the DG-II dormitory, the Shreenivas Deshpande Library, and the Ramesh Srinivasan Student Activity Centre. The department has also designed the art installations for the administrative building's foyer.