Mangaluru, Jul 3: Nitte University, accredited with Grade A by NAAC and placed under Category A by MHRD, GOI, will from this academic year, begin a five-year program in Architecture (B Arch) at its campus at Deralakatte, Mangaluru. The program will commence from August 2015. Nitte has been imparting education for over thirty years now and it is this expertise that has resulted in the setting up of the Nitte Institute of Architecture (NIA).

The institute will focus on a hands-on approach to make learning holistic, a fun experience. A practice-based curriculum based on the cooperative education model will help students gain practical exposure during the course. Students will have the opportunity to intern constantly with experienced professional architects under a system that allows for discipline-related work.

This unique program will function as a centre for excellence in tropical architecture, encompassing the tropical belt globally. There will be opportunities for interaction with architects working in these regions around the world.

The program will involve students in projects using the concept, 'City as a Learning Lab' facilitating public participation, Charrettes and Urban Design. NIA will also house research centres for smart cities, alternative technologies and energy and sustainability. In addition to full time faculty, the institute will have eminent Indian and international professional architects mentoring them.

The institute will also offer several opportunities to its faculty, providing them avenues for research and also encouraging the faculty to involve themselves in projects and workshops.

The institute will be headed by Prof Vinod Aranha, who is trained and qualified both from India and the US in architecture, urban planning and sustainability. He aims at having a vibrant environment that will stimulate minds and enthuse students and faculty to give their best to architectural studies and provide for an all-round learning experience.

NIA extends a warm welcome to both Indian and international students, to be part of a passionate journey into the exciting world of design, architecture and environmental sustainability.