About the Department

Department of Architecture and Planning-Dawood University of Engineering and Technology (DAP-DUET), entails a broad framework of design sensitivity. It also includes relative courses based on theory and a wider range of architectural design studios, the architectural design with focusing on social environment in the contemporary connotation.

The education of Architecture in Karachi began in the year 1954. It started from “Chai Khana” named as Café Al Mehran, the first venue where classes of School of Architecture were initiated by Pakistan Public Works Department (Pak PWD). In 1956, the school which was designed by the founder Architect Mehdi Ali Mirza, was housed in a purpose-built premise at Shahra-eKamal Attaturk, Karachi.

In 1972, the school was upgraded to a degree program, Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch) and was merged with Dawood College of Engineering and Technology Karachi. The peculiar achievements of this Department after 1972 are, (a) The Architecture Department has recently launched a Master’s program in Landscape Architecture, under the supervision of a highly qualified PhD faculty, ensuring academic excellence and practical relevance. (b) DAP hosted its inaugural International Conference and Panel Discussion titled 'Blurring the Interdisciplinary Value Barriers in Architecture'. The event brought together renowned national and international speakers, scholars, and industry professionals. (c) The Golden Jubilee Celebration (2004). (d) Four abroad study tours like India, Bangladesh, Iran, Turkey. (e) In addition, country wide Industrial trips are arranged every year. (f) The Affiliation with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard-USA, under the umbrella of Agha Khan Award in Architecture. Teachers’ Exchange Program was also a part of Agha Khan Award venture. (g) Commencement of “Design Spectrum Lecture Series” (2008) in which eminent Architects visited the Department and shared their expertise with students. (h) Recognition given by Architects Association of England through which DAP-DUET students were awarded exemption in 2 levels of Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). (i) Strong interaction with the Alumni of DAP-DUET through the DUAA forum to do attempts towards academic up gradation. The department also arranges Study Tour to different sites to have exposure of Practical/ Professional knowledge to the students of Architecture through Pakistan visits.

From the year 1995, the Department of Architecture and Planning has been established an exclusive premise, namely the Iqbal Campus. On completion of five-year courses based on theory and design, including thesis design I and II, the department offers Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture (B. Arch).

The department intends to explore the novel approaches for integrated academic disciplines according to the requirements of the contemporary times. The Research Cell of Architecture Department (RCAD) proactively contributes in the live projects and collaborates with several nation al and internat