Department of Architecture and Planning, TKMCE
Department of Architecture and Planning is managed by the TKM College Trust, a renowned educational institution founded by the late Janab Thangal Kunju Musaliar. The trust has a rich history of over 60 years and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.
The aim and objective of the TKM College Trust is to establish educational institutions that serve the community and enhance the quality of life. The Trust is committed to imparting quality education that prepares future generations to face the challenges of life.
The Department of Architecture and Planning, TKM College of Engineering, was established in 1985 as the Department of Architecture and has evolved into a centre for professional education in architecture and planning. The department offers a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) programme with an approved intake of 80 students, approved by the Council of Architecture and affiliated to APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University. The programme is conducted over ten semesters and has been granted academic autonomy from 2022, with a curriculum structured in accordance with the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) framework.
Design education forms the core of the programme, supported by studio-based pedagogy, a mandatory six-month professional training, and a comprehensive undergraduate thesis. In 2018, the department expanded its academic offerings with the introduction of the Master of Planning (Urban Planning) programme, approved by the Institute of Town Planners, India. Practice-oriented learning is further strengthened through the departmental Architectural Consultancy Cell, operational since 2018.
Students actively participate in academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities at regional and national levels through platforms such as NASA and the Society of Students of Architecture (SSA). Faculty-led research and doctoral studies are coordinated through the department’s research cell, with emphasis on socially and environmentally responsive themes. The Department of Architecture and Planning at TKMCE is distinguished by a strong studio-based pedagogy, seamless integration of professional practice and research, and active engagement with communities and real-world contexts.
Welcome to one of the premier design schools in Kerala. Department of Architecture and Planning, TKMCE has gone a long way in its mission of moulding future architects to become active contributors and leaders since 1985.
At present, the school offers one undergraduate (B.Arch), one postgraduate (M.Plan), and Ph.D. programmes. Our B.Arch. program, affiliated with APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University with autonomy status granted in the year 2022, is of a duration of 10 semesters, wherein the overall development of the student to practise as an architect is ensured. Our vision is to have ‘excellence in architectural education and research with a global outlook.’ This orientation helps our students to graduate with a strong understanding of architecture from a practical perspective encompassing design, construction, sustainability, materials, structure, and social needs. It is no wonder that the top ranks in the University are achieved by our graduates.
Our B. Arch students are in the forefront when it comes to extracurricular achievements in regional and national level events. Every year, they participate in the competitions conducted by the National Association of Student Architects (NASA) and bring laurels to the department. Our main strength is the dedicated faculty who passionately share their practical knowledge with students. To ensure practice oriented teaching, the department consultancy cell takes up and manages architectural and planning projects under the leadership of faculty.
Reputed architects from the field are involved in the design reviews of each semester so that students receive regular appraisals from professionals. Our PG program, M.Plan, consists of urban planning education over a span of four semesters. The M.Plan studio projects range from the preparation of area development plans to large city level schemes.
Our research cell oversees the research activities of the PhD scholars and faculty and ensures that their research areas address the needs of the society at large. Department has always been in the forefront to serve the society by means of non-profit design and planning services. Some such initiatives in the recent past include the preparation of planning and rehabilitation schemes for flood affected areas and cost effective residential design for flood prone areas.
Graduates of the department are leaders in not only the architectural profession but also successful in a wide range of careers benefitting from their ability to collaborate and apply design thinking. This website provides an overview of the academic programmes, student activities, research facilities, profiles of faculty members, and details of technical staff of the department.
Sincerely,
Head of the Department, DAP
Our vision is to achieve excellence in architectural education and research with a global perspective. We aim to blend theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students to address contemporary challenges. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, we engage with pressing issues like sustainability and urbanisation. Our global outlook includes partnerships with international institutions and opportunities for study abroad. Ultimately, we aspire to equip our graduates to make a meaningful impact in the world of architecture.
We aim to empower students to become globally competent architects capable of creating exemplary works in design, innovation, and research. Our broad-based education fosters self-motivated learning while instilling sensitivity toward society, culture, heritage, and the environment, promoting sustainable development. We also prioritise the nurturing of communication skills, leadership qualities, ethical behaviour, and creative and critical thinking, preparing students to thrive in a dynamic and responsible architectural landscape.
We’re proud to be affiliated with leading architectural organisations and institutions, enhancing our students’ learning experiences. These partnerships provide valuable opportunities for collaboration, research, and professional growth in the field of architecture.
Our programs are accredited by recognized bodies, ensuring we meet high educational standards. Accredited by NAAC, approved by the Council of Architecture (CoA), and provisionally approved by the Institute of Town Planners, India (ITPI), our programs not only enhances the quality of your education but also supports your career prospects in the diverse fields of architecture and planning.