Academics

Discipline of Architecture and Planning entails a broad framework of environmental studies in the contemporary connotation. Planning is a widescopic field of study that aims at various processes of development at national, regional and local environment predominantly at the micro level. Architects are engaged in resolving multidimensional problems of shelter and housing that are prevailing in the society, in addition to their conventional design and construction services, DCET Department of Architecture and Planning has adopted a Philosophy for architecture as a "SOCIALLY RESPONSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN"

Attractions for young entrants in Architecture and Planning are many. These include (a) satisfaction to get involved in a CREATIVE science and art with a tinge of originality (b) association with profession wherein selfless services to the humanity and direct contact with the needy masses is imminent (c) job opportunities on national and international level and in multiple fields (d) possibilities of engagement in education and research for both students and teachers (e) Documentation and regular authorship through press, media and freelance journalism in Architecture and Planning.

Based on the present day need of developing countries like Pakistan for development of environment and to overcome the housing and shelter problems in the urban areas, the department intends to restart a masters program in urban design.

The year 2004 was the Golden Jubilee Year of the Department. The education of Architecture in Karachi began in the year 1954. It started from a 'Chai Khana' named Café Al Mehran as the first venue where school of Architecture classes were initiated in earnest by the Pak PWD.

In 1956 the school was housed in a purpose built premises at Shahra-e-Kamal Attaturk. This was designed by the earstwhile founder of the 'School', Arch Mehdi Ali Mirza.In 1972 the Department was upgraded to a degree (B. Arch) Programme and was merged with the Dawood College of Engineering and Technology. The peculiar achievements of this department after 1972 are (a) Five different batches study tours abroad like India, Iran, Turkey in addition to country wide trips which is arranged every year. (b) The Affiliation with MIT & HARVARD, USA under the umbrella of Agha Khan Award in Architecture.Teachers exchanged programs was also a part of this venture. (c) Recognition given by Architects Association of England through which DAP-DCET students were awarded exemption in 2 levels of ARIBA.

From the year 1995, the Department of Architecture and Planning has been established at an exclusive premises,namely the IQBAL CAMPUS, where a number of Master level programmes in environment, restoration and rural studies shall be added in due course of time. Now, as the college has been declared as a degree awarding institution, there are a lot more opportunities for making new landmarks in Architectural education. Along with, other areas of importance a number of post graduate programmes shall be added in due course of time. These include environment, restoration and rural studies.

Address:
Department of Architecture and Planning,
Dawood College of Engineering and Technology IQBAL CAMPUS,
ST-6, Block-17, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi- 75300
Tel: 9243874, 9243866
Email: depdcet@g.mail.com