The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) in Mumbai, a part of NMIMS (Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies), offers a comprehensive approach to architectural education, encompassing various aspects like research, education, and practice. The focus is on evolving architectural ethos, behavioral sciences, and integrating these elements into contemporary design expressions. BSSA provides its students with holistic exposure across various disciplines such as Art, History, Technology, Architectural Design, and Construction processes.
BSSA awards a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) degree as part of a five-year program recognized by the Council of Architecture. The school, since its inception in 2007, has been committed to exploring the design process, with a curriculum that includes Contemporary Design and Advanced Technology Studio Models. The goal is to prepare students for the changing dynamics of architectural design and practice.
The faculty at BSSA is highly qualified and internationally exposed, contributing significantly to the learning process. The school emphasizes a holistic perception of architecture, encouraging students to perceive, analyze, and synthesize in three dimensions, akin to the virtues of a classical architect.
BSSA Highlights
BSSA is a private institution with a total of 12 faculty members. It is accredited by the Council of Architecture (COA) and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The average fee for the B.Arch course is around ₹20,00,000 for the five-year duration.
The infrastructure at BSSA includes modern facilities such as computer labs, sports facilities, a gym, a medical hospital, a cafeteria, a library, an auditorium, hostels, and laboratories. This infrastructure supports the comprehensive educational experience at BSSA.
In terms of achievements, BSSA has conducted significant events like its annual convocation ceremony, which in 2021 was held online due to the pandemic. During this event, degrees were awarded for Full-Time Master of Architecture, Bachelor of Architecture, and Bachelor of Arts Hons. (Interior Environment and Design). The ceremony highlighted the school's commitment to staying current and evolving with changing times. It also emphasized the role of design at the center of knowledge creation, with future plans to expand the scope of research in design. The school has articulated four knowledge streams: Architectural Design, Urban Studies, Environmental & Sustainability, and other Multidisciplinary Streams, reflecting the diverse interests of its faculty and students.
BSSA recognizes the achievements of its top-ranking students from each program, awarding them with Dean's list honors, gold, silver medals, and certificates, which underscores the school's commitment to academic excellence.
| Institution Type |
Private |
| Total Faculty |
12 |
| Accreditation |
Council of Architecture (COA) |
| Recognition |
University Grants Commission (UGC) |
| Program Offered |
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) |
| Program Duration |
5 Years |
| Average Course Fee |
₹20,00,000 |
| Infrastructure Facilities |
Computer labs, Sports facilities, Gym, Medical Hospital, Cafeteria, Library, Auditorium, Hostel, Labs |
| Focus Areas |
Architectural Design, Urban Studies, Environmental & Sustainability, Multidisciplinary Streams |
| Annual Events |
Convocation Ceremony |
| Student Recognition |
Dean's list, Gold and Silver Medals, Certificates |
| Key Emphasis |
Holistic education in Art, History, Technology, Design, Construction; emphasis on changing design ethos |
BSSA Courses
The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) in Mumbai offers a comprehensive curriculum in architecture through its Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) and Master of Architecture (M.Arch) programs.
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch)
Program Overview:
- The B.Arch program at BSSA is a five-year degree program recognized by the Council of Architecture.
- The course has an intake of 80 seats.
- It focuses on developing students' understanding of Art, History, Technology, Architectural Design, and Construction processes.
- The course includes internships and fieldwork, involving visits to significant buildings, sites, and project offices.
Facilities and Resources:
- The facilities include air-conditioned studios, lecture halls, a library, a resource center, and a computer laboratory.
- The school also has a modern workshop with international standard machines for wood, steel, and clay, along with a laser cutting laboratory and a 3D printing lab.
- Program Objectives and Value Proposition:
- The program emphasizes DESIGN, with continuous workshops, guest lectures, and exchange programs in India and abroad.
- It involves participation by prominent Indian and international artists, architects, and policy planners.
Pedagogy:
- The course content is enhanced based on interactive sessions, case studies, and live project participation with practicing architects and construction management groups.
- Critical and analytical issues lead to committed design and built form.
Eligibility and Admission Criteria:
- Candidates must have passed 10+2 with 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or a 10+3 Diploma with Mathematics and English.
- Admission is based on 10+2 results and the NATA score.
Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
Program Introduction:
- This two-year full-time program started in 2018 and focuses on advanced design experimentation in contemporary urban environments.
The Degree:
- It is a Council of Architecture approved Masters in Architecture (Advance Architecture Design) Degree.
Program Focus:
- The program addresses urban densification, environmental adaptation, and technological shifts, aiming to expand the boundaries of conventional architectural practice.
Course Structure:
- Includes advanced design studios and a design thesis.
- It covers a range of topics from observing and reading the city of Mumbai to designing systems in nature through evolutionary theories and biological studies.
Interactive Seminars and Electives:
- The program offers seminars on mapping and visualization, history, theory, and criticism, environment design and analysis, and more.
- Electives include digital tools and processing, advanced fabrication techniques, critical writing, urban morphology, project management, and performative building skins.
These programs at BSSA are designed to provide a comprehensive and evolving educational experience in architecture, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and modern technologies.
BSSA Fee Structure
| Course |
Fees |
| Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) |
₹20,00,000 (5 Years) |
| Master of Architecture (M.Arch) |
Information Not Available |
BSSA Eligibility Criteria
| Course |
Eligibility Criteria |
| Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) |
10+2 with 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or 10+3 Diploma with Mathematics and English; NATA Score |
| Master of Architecture (M.Arch) |
Specific eligibility criteria not provided; likely requires a relevant undergraduate degree in architecture or related field |
BSSA Admission & Application Process
The admission process for the Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA), Mumbai, for both the Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) and Master of Architecture (M.Arch) programs involves several key steps:
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) Admission Process:
- Eligibility: Candidates need to pass the NATA or JEE (Paper-II) with a pass percentage in the 10+2 exam with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) or a 10+3 diploma with Mathematics.
- Registration: Candidates must complete the registration process online, for which they will receive a registration number via email.
- Application Form: Read the instructions, important dates, and terms & conditions carefully before filling out the online application form.
- Merit List Preparation: A merit list is prepared based on academic marks at the 10+2 examination and NATA Score.
- Admission Confirmation: Selected candidates confirm their provisional admission by completing the e-admission form, uploading required documents, and paying fees within the given timeline.
Master of Architecture (M.Arch) Admission Process:
- Eligibility: Candidates must have a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the Bachelor of Architecture degree course or an equivalent course recognized by the Council of Architecture. Final year students are also eligible to apply.
- Registration and Application: Similar to the B.Arch program, candidates need to register online and complete the application form.
- Written Test and Personal Interview: Candidates who successfully register will be confirmed for a written test and personal interview, with the call letter available for download from the website.
- Merit List and Admission Formalities: A merit list is declared based on the written test and interview results. Selected candidates confirm their provisional admission by completing the e-admission form, uploading required documents, and paying fees within the given timeline.
This extensive process ensures that candidates are selected based on their aptitude and academic performance, maintaining high standards of admission to these prestigious programs.
BSSA Infrastructure & Facilities
The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) at NMIMS University in Mumbai boasts a range of state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities designed to foster an optimal learning environment for its students. Here's a detailed overview:
-
Studios and Workspaces:
- The studios and lecture halls are fully air-conditioned and internet accessible.
- Individual, computer-connected comfortable workspaces are provided in studios and workshops.
- These studios are equipped with computers, printers, projectors, and 24-hour high-speed Wi-Fi access.
-
Library and Resource Center:
- BSSA has an extensive physical and electronic library in addition to the main university library.
- The library is spread over 145 square meters with a seating capacity for 40 students.
- It is fully computerized, using KOHA software for maintaining book records, and offers reprographic facilities.
- The collection covers subjects like Architecture Design, History, Arts, Climatology, Landscape, Town Planning, and Technology.
-
Computer Laboratory:
- The computer lab provides all students with individual connected computers with internet access.
-
Workshop Facilities:
- BSSA has a modern workshop equipped with international standard machines for working with wood, steel, and clay.
- Facilities include a sophisticated on-campus workshop, laser cutting machines, and a fully equipped carpentry/clay model workshop.
-
Campus Location:
- BSSA is located on the NMIMS University campus, conveniently situated at JVPD Scheme, near the Domestic and International Terminals of the Mumbai airport.
-
Classrooms:
- Classrooms are state-of-the-art, fully air-conditioned, and Wi-Fi enabled, ensuring a comfortable learning environment.
-
Canteen:
- The college canteen offers a variety of refreshments, including different kinds of pasta and other delicious baked foods.
-
Additional Facilities:
- Other facilities at BSSA include a sports area, a gym, a medical hospital, an auditorium, hostels for accommodation, and general laboratory facilities.
BSSA Scholarships
The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) in Mumbai does offer scholarships for various programs for the session 2023-24. However, specific details about these scholarships, such as eligibility criteria, types of scholarships available, and the application process, were not readily available in the sources I accessed. It is advisable for interested students to directly enquire with the college officials for comprehensive and current information about the scholarships they offer. Please note that the minimum fee for the program at BSSA is Rs.1,020,000.
BSSA Placements
The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) in Mumbai is committed to providing effective placement opportunities to its students. Since April 2012, a dedicated Placement cell has been operational at BSSA. For placement-related queries, students can contact Ms. Gauri Chile, the Placement Coordinator.
The school has successfully collaborated with eminent architecture firms for internships and professional practices. For the 2019-20 batch of the B. Arch program, notable recruiters included Nude Studio, Perkins Eastman, Architecture Brio, Broadway Malyan, Red Architects, Shroff Leon, SE-ARCH, Malik Architecture, Studio TAB, Patch Design Studio, and several others. These firms are based primarily in Mumbai, with a few in other locations like Bangalore and Auroville.
Below is a detailed table presenting the key placement information:
| Sr. No. |
Company Name |
Principal Architect(s) |
Location |
| 1 |
Nude Studio |
Ar. Nuru Karim |
Mumbai |
| 2 |
Perkins Eastman |
Ar. Supriya Thyagarajan |
Mumbai |
| 3 |
Architecture Brio |
Ar. Robert Verrijt |
Mumbai |
| 4 |
Broadway Malyan |
Ar. Ankit Kamboj |
Mumbai |
| 5 |
Red Architects |
Ar. Ekta Parekh, Ar. Rajiv Parekh |
Mumbai |
| 6 |
Shroff Leon |
Ar. Kayzad Shroff |
Mumbai |
| 7 |
SE-ARCH |
Ar. Kapil Bhalla, Ar. Jayashree Bhalla |
Mumbai |
| 8 |
Malik Architecture |
Ar. Kamal Malik, Ar. Arjun Malik |
Mumbai |
| 9 |
Studio TAB |
Ar. Rahul Menon, Ar. Ojas Chaudhari |
Mumbai |
| 10 |
Patch Design Studio |
Ar. Shruti Gaonkar, Ar. Ispit Patel, Ar. Rika Chaudhry |
Mumbai |
BSSA Faculty
The faculty at the Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA), Mumbai, comprises highly qualified professionals with diverse specializations in the field of architecture and related disciplines. The Dean of the school is Dr. Kaiwan Mehta, who has qualifications in Architecture, Literature, Indian Aesthetics, and Cultural Studies. Other notable faculty members include Ms. Vidya Raghu and Ms. Tapan Mittal Deshpande, both Professors with expertise in Architecture; Mrs. Nidhi Shenai, an Associate Professor specialized in Project Management; and several Assistant Professors with various specializations ranging from Urban Design to Environmental Planning.
Each faculty member at BSSA brings a unique combination of academic knowledge and practical experience, contributing to a rich learning environment for students. This multidisciplinary team ensures a comprehensive educational experience, blending theoretical knowledge with practical insights. The faculty's diverse expertise covers areas such as environmental architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture, conservation, and advanced architectural design, reflecting BSSA's commitment to a broad-based architectural education.
BSSA Alumni
The alumni of the Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA), Mumbai, have made significant contributions and achievements in various fields. Here are some notable instances:
- Anuj Modi (Batch 2015-2020): Won an honorable mention in the Silk Matters Gaudi Architecture Prize 2020, Urban Design category for his project 'The New Normal'.
- Collaboration in 3D Printing and Laser Crafting: Several alumni participated in creating face shields for medical staff, police, and others, showcasing their innovative skills and social responsibility.
- Participation in CTBUH 2020: Alumni were part of the BSSA team that excelled in the CTBUH Full day Students' Workshop on Tropical Highrises.
- Achievements in FOAID Competitions: BSSA students have regularly participated and won accolades in the Festival of Architectural and Interior Designing competitions across various years.
- National Artistic Roller Skating Championship: Alumni like Ms. Yaashvi Shah have won medals in national level championships, demonstrating their talents beyond architecture.
- International Competitions: BSSA students achieved global recognition in competitions like the 24-hour competition organized by If-ideasforward, showcasing their design skills and innovative thinking.
- Participation in Kalaghoda Arts Festival: BSSA students' installations were highly appreciated at this prestigious arts festival, underlining their creative abilities.
These achievements reflect the diverse skills and talents of BSSA alumni, ranging from architectural design and innovation to contributing to societal needs and excelling in sports and arts.
Hostel
The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) in Mumbai provides hostel facilities for both girls and boys with various accommodation options. The fees for these hostels are structured based on the type of accommodation, such as air-conditioned (A/C) or non-air-conditioned (Non-A/C), and the duration of stay is typically for 10 months. Here are the details of the hostel fees for different accommodations:
- MKM Sanghvi Girls Hostel (Non-A/C): Rs. 2,88,000/- for 10 months.
- MKM Sanghvi Girls Hostel (A/C): Rs. 3,38,000/- for 10 months.
- GR Jani Boys Hostel (Non-A/C): Rs. 2,50,000/- for 10 months.
- GR Jani Boys Hostel (A/C): Rs. 3,00,000/- for 10 months.
- Bansi Villa - Girls Residential Flats (Non-A/C): Rs. 2,25,000/- for 10 months.
- Bansi Villa - Girls Residential Flats (A/C): Rs. 3,00,000/- for 10 months.
- Kalika - Girls Residential Flats (Non-A/C): Rs. 2,25,000/- for 10 months.
- Sur Sagar - Girls Residential Flats (Non-A/C): Rs. 2,25,000/- for 10 months.
- Anand Premises Boys (A/C): Rs. 3,00,000/- for 10 months.
These hostels offer necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for the students. However, specific details about the facilities provided in the hostels, such as room types, in-room amenities, and other services, were not readily available in the sources I accessed. For comprehensive information, it is recommended to contact BSSA directly or visit their official website.
Conclusion
The Balwant Sheth School of Architecture (BSSA) stands as a beacon of architectural education in Mumbai, offering a comprehensive and evolving curriculum. With its focus on integrating artistic, historical, technological, and design aspects of architecture, BSSA provides an all-encompassing educational experience. The school's commitment to academic excellence is evident in its distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse range of programs and activities that cater to the holistic development of students. By fostering an environment of innovation and practical application, BSSA not only equips its students with the necessary skills and knowledge but also prepares them to meet the challenges and dynamics of the architectural field. Whether you're a prospective student, a professional looking to expand your knowledge, or an enthusiast of architectural design and theory, BSSA offers a rich and rewarding journey into the world of architecture.
Explore a world of architectural excellence at BSSA. Apply now to shape your future in design and innovation
