School of Architecture and Planning (SAP), Anna University

About

The School of Architecture and Planning (SAP), Anna University, one of the premier and oldest Institutions of the nation offering architecture and planning education, is one of the four constituent colleges of Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was initially established as a Department of Architecture of the University of Madras in 1957 and was located in the Alagappa College of Technology.  It was initially started as a Department of Architecture of the University of Madras in the year 1957 and was located in the Alagappa College of Technology, Guindy, offering a five year Bachelor’s Degree Program in Architecture with an intake of 20 seats.  In 1964, the Post Graduate Program in Town and Country Planning was also started in the same campus to address the needs of South India with respect to planning education.

Subsequently, the Department of Architecture and the Department of Planning were integrated under a standalone institution named School of Architecture and Planning with a new independent campus from the year 1968.   From 1978, the School became one of the constituent colleges of the newly formed Anna University.  In 1981, an interdisciplinary Centre for Human Settlements was established to engage in training, research and consultancy activities.

 SAP is located within the sprawling green 189-acre Anna University main campus in Sardar Patel Road, Guindy, Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu.  It is 10 Kms from Chennai International airport and 20 Kms from Chennai Central Station.  The College is easily accessible by various modes of local public transportation – Train, Bus, Auto, Cab, etc.   The local train station Guindy is 3 kms away.  The closest bus top is at a distance of 1 km from the campus. 

The School of Architecture and Planning is affiliated to Anna University, Chennai and AICTE, New Delhi approved.

The School offers courses at Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Research level in the field of Architecture and Planning.  The UG & PG courses currently offered are B.Arch, B.Plan, M.Arch (Landscape),M.Arch (General) and M.Plan.   SAP also offers Ph D programs in Architecture and Planning and MS degree (through Research).  Admissions to these courses are based on Entrance Exams like NATA/ TANCET. Candidates interested can apply online for admissions. The School also offers various Scholarships to deserving students.

The School of Architecture and Planning at Anna University offers excellent Infrastructure and Facilities.  The well-planned campus of the School provides ample space for Administration, Lecture Halls and Studios for both Architecture and Planning courses.  There are Seminar Rooms, Staff Rooms, an extensive Library, Multi-Purpose Hall and Student's Common Room and a Workshop. The School has advanced Computer and Networking facilities with exclusive computer labs for UG and PG students. The School library functions effectively with financial assistance from the University, Government of Tamil Nadu and the UGC, and the total collection of publications exceeds 13000.

• Apart from Auditorium, Classrooms, Digital Library, and Wi-Fi Campus, other Key facilities include:
• Library: Large collection of Books, Journals, Thesis Reports, and Back Volumes
• Computer Labs: Equipped with latest technology for UG and PG students
• Design Studios: Dedicated spaces for Architectural design work
• Environmental Lab: Facilities for Environmental Studies
• GIS Lab: Equipped with High-end Workstations for Geo-informatics and Urban Planning applications
• Multi-purpose Hall: Space for Events and Seminars
• Hostel Facilities: Separate Hostels for Boys and Girls with basic amenities
• Sports Complex: Badminton, Volleyball, Basketball Court, Throw ball courts, Football Ground,  Cricket Ground, etc
• Cafeteria: Multi-cuisine dining options
• Medical Facilities: On-site Medical support for Students and Faculty

The School’s strength lies in the highly qualified faculty.  The school has an eminent list of faculties, who are mostly the distinguished alumnus of SAP.  This adds to facilitation of interactive learning through Design Projects, Student Exchange Programs, Student Seminars, Guest Lectures etc. The wealth of data collected as part of the design and thesis has been well appreciated by professionals and government departments for their use.

Internships are compulsory for all students and are part of the syllabus. Students can intern in architectural firms all over India and abroad.  While there are no corporate In-campus Placements, most graduates get placed after sending their portfolios to firms.

 The School of Architecture and Planning organises and conducts various events and activities as an Institution, Students’ Association of SAP, various units like YRC, NSS, Rotaract Club and by the departments under SAP - Department of Architecture and the Department of Planning. The Students’ Clubs and its activities are of varying nature comprising of curricular, co-curricular and extracurricular events, some of which are held annually: 

• Saprabatham – Music club
• Splines – Dance club
• Vismaya – Theatre club
• Nizhal – Photography club
• Thalir – Tamil literary club
• Word’s Eye View- English Literature club
• Digital Arts club and house of arts – Arts club
• Movie Club
• Architecture and Urbanism
• Environment club

The institution also supports the Students in undertaking activities related to National Student Bodies – National Association of Students of Architecture (NASA) & Organization of Students of Planning (NOSPlan), Both of which are national-level Student Organization. These activities include participation and conduct of national-level competitions, conventions, events, symposiums, etc. This connects our students to the national body of students of architecture.

The School of Architecture and Planning has produced many notable alumni spread across India and abroad. The School as a foremost institution in India serves as an institutional model in Architecture and Planning, where other schools in this region look up to its curricular and pedagogies for guidance.

Under A Memorandum of Understanding, the Architecture Department has strong connections with various international partners and institution from Europe and United States enabling students and staff to participate in international exchanges through collaborative academic and research works.

Some Highlights of School of Architecture and Planning, Anna University:

Why Choose Anna University School of Architecture And Planning ?

Choosing Anna University School of Architecture and Planning (SOAP) can be a great decision for several reasons:

Prestigious Institution: Established in 1957, SOAP is one of the oldest and premier institutions in India offering architecture and planning education. The school is part of Anna University, which is highly ranked and accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).

Quality Education: SOAP offers a range of programs including Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. degrees in Architecture and Planning. The school uses the Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate (CDIO) approach, which helps students acquire professional, personal, and interpersonal skills systematically.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: The campus is well-planned with ample space for administration, lecture halls, studios, seminar rooms, and a multi-purpose hall. The school has advanced computer and networking facilities, an extensive library with over 13,000 publications, and dedicated computer labs for students.

Experienced Faculty:  The school boasts highly qualified faculty members who facilitate interactive learning through design projects, student exchange programs, seminars, and guest lectures. Faculty members are actively involved in research and consultancy activities, contributing to the field of architecture and planning.

Strong Industry Connections: SOAP has established interactions with various industries, offering joint degree programs, internships, projects, and consultancy. Graduates from SOAP are recruited by top corporates, ensuring good career prospects.

Holistic Development: The school offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student clubs, promoting overall development. The university provides support for students to transform their business ideas into successful startups.

Notable Alumni: The school has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of architecture and planning both in India and abroad.

Choosing Anna University School of Architecture and Planning means you'll be part of a vibrant academic community with excellent educational opportunities, strong industry connections, and a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

Admission Procedure:

Anna University, located in Chennai, India, offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its School of Architecture and Planning (SAP). The admission process varies depending on the level and type of program you are applying for. Below is an overview of the admission procedure for the programs at the School of Architecture and Planning

Admission Criteria:

Courses:

B.Arch (Navigation)

M.Arch (Navigation)

B.Arch

Application Process:

• Visit the official website of Anna University.
  
• Register yourself valid email ID and contact number.
  
• fill the application form with necessary details.
  
• Upload a scanned image of photograph, signature & mandatory documents
  

Eligibility:

• Candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (12th standard) or equivalent with a focus on Mathematics as one of the subjects.
  
• Candidates must have secured at least 50% in the qualifying examination (10+2) for general category students (relaxation is provided for reserved categories).
  
• National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) / JEE Main (Paper 2): Admission to B.Arch. is through the score obtained in NATA (conducted by COA) or JEE Main Paper 2
• A minimum score in either of these exams is required for eligibility.

Entrance Exams:
The admission process includes NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture) or JEE Main (Paper 2). Students need to have valid scores from one of these exams.

Counseling:
After the entrance exam, the counseling process is conducted by Anna University for both B.Arch. and M.Arch. programs.
For B.Arch., based on the entrance exam score, the counseling process includes seat allotment for various architecture colleges under Anna University.

M.Arch:

Application Process:

• Candidates need to apply through the centralized counseling process for PG programs conducted by Anna University.
  
• The application involves registration, choice filling, and fee payment.
  

Eligibility:

• Candidates must have completed a B.Arch. degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
  
• Candidates must have secured a minimum of 50% marks in the qualifying degree.
  

Entrance Exams:

University-based or national-level exam or an interview process depending on the specialization.

Counseling:

M.Arch. candidates need to attend the counseling session where seat allotment is based on merit.

Scholarship: 

• BC / MBC
  
• SC / ST
  

Placement

The School of Architecture and Planning (SAP) at Anna University has a strong track record of placements, with students securing positions in top architectural firms, urban planning agencies, and construction companies. The placement cell at SAP actively supports students by organizing job fairs, workshops, and internship opportunities, ensuring a seamless transition from academic life to professional careers. Graduates from SAP are highly sought after for their technical skills, creativity, and comprehensive understanding of architecture and planning. The institution's strong industry connections and alumni network further contribute to the successful placement of its students.

Placement Cell and Support:  The SAP has a dedicated placement cell that works closely with students and recruiters. The placement cell provides career counseling, organizes campus recruitment drives, and ensures students are well-prepared for interviews by offering workshops on resume building, soft skills, and mock interviews.

Industry Partnerships:  SAP has built strong relationships with top architectural firms, urban planning agencies, real estate developers, and government planning bodies, creating multiple avenues for student placements. Some of the leading companies that recruit from SAP include L&T, Shapoorji Pallonji, Mott MacDonald, and various other renowned firms in the architecture and planning sectors.

Internships and Live Projects:  Students at SAP are encouraged to undertake internships with top firms, providing them with real-world exposure and enhancing their employability. The school also collaborates with industry partners for live projects that give students hands-on experience in designing and planning real-world projects.

Diverse Career Opportunities:  Graduates from SAP find career opportunities not only in architecture and urban planning but also in allied fields such as construction management, real estate development, and research. Many graduates pursue further studies in reputed international universities, while others choose to start their own firms.

Alumni Network:  The SAP’s alumni network plays an integral role in placements, as many alumni are in key positions in leading firms. This network often provides mentorship, internships, and job opportunities for current students.

Career Prospects:  SAP students are known for their creativity, technical expertise, and comprehensive knowledge of architecture and urban planning, which makes them highly sought after by employers in both the public and private sectors. They find employment in architecture studios, town planning agencies, urban design firms, real estate companies, and government agencies.

Anna University School of Architecture And Planning

• library
  
• Seminar Hall
  
• Auditorium
  
• Record Room
  
• Indoor & Outdoor Sports, Games And Recreation Facilities
  
• Other Facilities
  
• Computer Lab
  
• Conference Hall
  
• Group Discussion Hall
  
• Separate Boys & Girls Hostel
  
• Cafeteria
  
• GYM and Fitness
  
• Transport Facilities
  
• Medical Centre
  
• Canteen
  
• ICT Facilities
  
• Wi-Fi/ Internet Connectivity
  
• Counseling Room
  
• Alumni Association
  
• Placement Assistance
  
• NSS/YRC/NCC
  
• Solar Power
  
• RO Plant
  
• 24-hour Security
  
• CCTV Surveillance
  
• Green Campus
  

Hostel

The SAP Hostel is a G+3 building, fully secured and self-contained, with a capacity to accommodate 174 students in 43 rooms. The hostel provides a home-like environment for students, with separate facilities for boys and girls. Located within the college campus, the hostels are managed by the Hostel Committee. Each room is furnished with a table, chair, cot, and fan.

The Hostels are managed by a committee consisting of

• Warden – SAP Hostels
  
• Executive Wardens
  
• Residential Tutors
  
• Students Representatives
  

Facilities:

• The hostels are equipped with essential facilities, including round-the-clock water supply, medical care, and uninterrupted power supply through generators. Additional amenities include washing machines, a common TV room, and more. 
• In SAP Hostels facilities has been provided for the disabled including disabled friendly toilet in the ground floor and ramps for comfortable movement.

Mess:

The SAP hostel offers delicious and nutritious food, hygienically prepared using steamers and served by skilled caterers. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals are provided, and it is mandatory for hostellers to dine in the mess. The dining halls and kitchen are equipped with excellent cooking and serving facilities.

Transport

The college offers excellent facilities for students to commute by bus from any part of the town. It has a fleet of well-maintained buses.