Architectural Engineering
Technical Writing (919111) ( 3 Cr.)
Course Description: This course develops the knowledge and skills to produce technical documents that meet professional and ethical standards required by technical fields and professions. It focuses on both the rhetorical and workplace problems that are addressed by writers, such as audience, exigency and purpose, and workplace constraints. Throughout the course, students will analyse and discuss recent areas of concern in the field technical communication, as well as produce documents in various technical genres, including proposals and formal reports.
Scientific Thinking (190112) ( 3 Cr.)
Course Description: The course emphasizes the unifying aspects of the scientific approach to the study of nature and human behavior. About one-third of the course is devoted to scientific inquiry and investigation. The course focuses on fact identification and concept formation and testing. In the remaining parts, the students are exposed to applications of the approach in various disciplines. The course sets some basic concepts and theories of science into broad historical, philosophical, and cultural context and traces the development of these theories to their present status. This serves the double purpose of acquainting students with the appropriate setting in which a given idea gained relevance and exposing them to the evolution toward the current methods of investigation. Moral and ethical issues in science are examined.
Entrepreneurship (803224) (3 cr.)
Course Description: This course introduces the students to the world of Entrepreneurship. This course aims to provide knowledge to the students towards the entrepreneurial activity and business ventures. This course will help the students to apply themselves in entrepreneurial activities by developing their own business plans and they can assess themselves by using the knowledge which they obtained during the course. It scrutinizes the subject from both the theoretical and practical insights whereby students are able to relate to the subject of entrepreneurship as applicable in their daily lives and more pertinently as applicable in the fast changing dynamic world of today. It also gives a focused practice oriented study where students can actively take part in developing the business plan. This course will help them to understand the various concepts and steps involved in the process of entrepreneurship.
Arab Society (903231)( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Description and analysis of social and cultural characteristics and problems of contemporary Arab Society, while taking into consideration the specific historical, economic, and ideological forces that shape it and the social basis for Arab unity and identity. Introduction to basic concepts and principles for understanding social phenomena.
World History Art Survey (903233) ( 3 cr. )
Course Description: An introduction to the historical development of the visual arts in the western and selected non-western traditions from prehistoric beginnings until the late medieval periods, with emphasis on Islamic Art. Concepts such as formal analysis and cultural context will be explored through lectures, class discussions, and written exercises.
Modern and Contemporary Art ( 911331 ) (3 cr.)
Course Description: A survey of the development of style and content in twentieth-century painting and sculpture. The formal, conceptual, and expressive concerns of artists will be studied within their historical contexts. Formal and textual analysis will be practiced through written exercises.
Calculus I (101131) (3 cr.)
Course Description: Limits of one-variable functions, continuity and differentiability. Extrema and Curve sketching. Related rates. Linear approximation. Differentiation of Trigonometric functions. Applications of the derivative.
Fundamentals of Computer Science (201123) (3 cr.)
Course Description: Introduction to the discipline of computing. Computer systems, number systems, data representation and basic computer organization. Basic Math concepts, functions and propositional logic. Problem solving, abstraction, design and programming. Selection structures, repetition and loop statements. Modular programming. Basic testing and debugging of programs. Introduction to programming in C++. Professional Ethics for computer professionals.
Classical Mechanics, Sound and Heat (103113) (3 cr.)
Course Description: An introduction to classical mechanics covering vectors, applications of Newton’s laws, conservation laws and forces, motion in a plane, circular motion, equilibrium and elasticity, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion, energy and power; mechanical and sound waves, temperature, heat and the first law of thermodynamics.
General Physics Laboratory (103114) (1 cr.)
Course Description: The fundamental quantities of physics are measured through selected experiments in mechanics, heat, and sound. Data are summarized, errors are estimated, and reports are presented.
Descriptive Geometry and Engineering Drawing (301116) (2 cr.)
Course Description: Introductory descriptive geometry. Orthographic and pictorial drawing. Sectional views, auxiliary views, and conventions. Dimensioning. Free hand sketching, and both manual and computer-aided drafting.
General Chemistry I (105115) (3 cr.)
Course Description: Chemical stoichiometry; atomic structure and periodicity; an overview of chemical bonding with a discussion of models and theories of covalent bonding; introduction to structure and chemistry of organic compounds.
Engineering Mechanics I - Statics (300123) (3 cr.)
Course Description: Fundamentals of mechanics. Equilibrium of practices, forces in space, equivalent systems, equilibrium of rigid bodies, distributed forces, center of gravity, internal actions, analysis of simple structures and machine parts. Friction. Moment of inertia.
Engineering Economy (300214) (3 cr.)
Course Description: Economic and cost concepts, the time value of money, single, multiple and series of cash flows, gradients, functional notation, nominal and effective interest rates, continuous compounding, rates of return. Computation and applications, economic feasibility of projects and worth of investments, comparison of alternatives. Replacement, deprecation and B.E. analysis. Introduction to risk analysis.
Human Aspects in Architectural Design (401113) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Introduction to architectural design related to environment-behavior issues. Introduction to architectural programming and post-occupancy evaluation. Human aspects in design: perception, behavioral uses of spaces, users needs, ergonomics, proximics. Design for the disabled. Effects of cultural and ecological processes on architecture and urban design. Use of environment-behavior research methods in architecture and urban design. Design applications.
History of Architecture (401114) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: A survey of the history of architecture and the philosophy of design in different ages focusing on the formal, aesthetic, cultural and socio-political dimensions. A comparative analytical study starting from the pre-historic, ancient Egyptian, West Asiatic and Mesopotamia, Babylonian, Assyrian and Persian to the classical ages of the Greek, roman and early Christian and Byzantine till the modern era, with emphasis on history and tradition of the Arab area.
Building Constructions and Methods (403125) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Methods of construction. Site management. Techniques of traditional and contemporary building construction; methods, materials, tools and equipment; traditional, mechanized and prefabrication construction systems. Construction detailing. Selection, sizing, matching and operation of construction equipment.
Architectural Drawing Skills (301132) ( 2 cr.)
Course Description: The focus of this course is to introduce students to the requisite skills of free-hand manual drawing for designers. The course is composed of three primary modules covering the conceptual, technical and media related aspects of free-hand drawing, from first conceptualization and diagramming to drawing from observation through final rendering and representation.
Theories of Modern and Contemporary Architecture (401121) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: An introduction to the historical development of twentieth-century architecture in the western tradition, including its social, technological, and conceptual aspects. Special emphasis is placed upon studying individual architects, buildings, and theoretical writings. The course objectives are to expose students to the main theories that governed architectural projects in the modern era and encourage them to have a critical eye on the different architectural styles that govern the modern and contemporary architecture
Digital Representation Tools for Architects (401217) ( 2 cr.)
Course Description: An introduction to different forms of digital representation in architecture: architectural drawings, digital 3D-modeling, rendering, sheet layout design and fundamentals in animation and image editing. Introduction to Building Information Modelling (BIM), and graphical representation software. Such techniques are utilized as design tools for the creative development of projects and communication with clients and consultants from different disciplines in architectural practice.
Structural Analysis for Architects(403212) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Classification of structures with respect to stability and determinacy. Analysis of statically determinate structures under static loads including; computation of reactions and internal forces in: trusses, beams, frames, arches and cables. Computation of deflections by virtual work method. Analysis of structures using commercial computer software. Assessment of trusses, beams, frames and arches with respect to geometric, loading and supporting conditions.
Building Finishes and Construction Details (403213) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Construction details, materials selection, and methods of construction of traditional and contemporary building finishes: floors, walls, ceiling; stairs, openings, installations, specialty works. Design/ detailing project.
Environmental Control Systems and Sustainable Design (401213) ( 4 cr.)
Course Description: Basic principles and application of environmental systems: acoustic, lighting, HVAC, energy use, and their integration with the building envelop. Performance of the building envelops materials and assemblies. Introduction to LEED and similar systems. Sustainable/ecological design principles and its applications. Sustainable design project.
Foundations of 3-Dimensional Design Studio (401222) ( 2 cr.)
Course Description: Basic concepts and fundamentals of visualization, thinking, and design of simple forms in three dimensions. Presentation, communication and basic design skills using simple three dimensional modelling exercises in manual formats. Emphasis on aesthetic design criteria. No previous modelling or digital experience is required.
Structural Design for Architects I (401225) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Reinforced Concrete Design: properties and advantages of concrete, principles of limit states design, loads and load combination, design of singly reinforced sections, design and reinforcement detailing of: beams, solid slabs and short columns. Structural Steel Design: properties of steel, load and resistance factor design of steel structures, structural systems, and computation of loads and load combinations. Design of: Tension members, compression members and beams. Behavior of beam columns. Types of fasteners.
Housing Design and Geographic Information Systems (401227) ( 4 cr.)
Course Description: Context, history and framework of regional, city and urban planning. Concepts, features and characteristics of human settlements. Interrelationship between socio-cultural contexts and housing processes. Design of housing areas and housing units. Design of ‘appropriate’ and ‘responsive’ residential environments within specific resources. Concepts and system components of GIS. Creation and management of a geo-database. GIS analysis and applications in housing projects.
Building Services and Building Systems Integration (403226) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Basic principles of sanitary and plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems in buildings. Integration of building systems. Assessment, selection and integration of structural systems, building envelop, environmental, life safety, and building systems into building design.
Urban Planning (401315) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Study & Analysis of Urban Regional planning.
Advanced Computer-Aided Architectural Design and Workshop (401316) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: In depth application of advanced CAD concepts. Real time computer graphics. Computer applications for performance animation, virtual reality and interactivity.. Modeling, texture mapping, environments, navigation, lighting, animation and sound. Generative design and Avatars. Digital tools and methods of design with manual tools within the design process. Computational design methodologies, visualization, digital fabrication, cost-estimation, scheduling and facility management. Parametric design and Building Information Modelling (BIM). Applications through workshop on digital fabrication.
Strength and Mechanics of Construction Materials (307313) ( 4 cr.)
Course Description: Properties of Engineering and construction materials. Concept and analysis of stress and strain. in components and structural elements. Corresponding deformation due to axial loading, torsion, bending and transverse loading. Properties of steel, wood and aggregates and Concrete used in construction. Conducting Portland cement concrete mix design. Quality control and experimental testing of construction materials.
Architectural Design Studio I (401124) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: Studio focusing on designing in behavioral and socio-cultural contexts. Students are required to think of architecture from the “inside-out” approach. Design will be generated through the study of functional and behavioral use of space. Issues of age, gender, culture and individuality as well as complex functional relationships will be examined in their influence on architectural design. The nature of human behavior and how it can be incorporated, facilitated, modified and influenced through architectural design is emphasized.
Architectural Design Studio II (401214) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: Studio on form, space and composition. “Outside-in” approach to architecture. The architectural form and its composition. The compositional aspects of spatial design- expression, language, intent, dynamics etc. and their use as tools of concept and functional accommodation. Three-dimensional models and design development. Spatial approach to design. Meaning, message and symbolism. Work with architectural precedents through analysis of various works of architects. Contemporary design theory as a premise for design.
Architectural Design Studio III (401224) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: Studio on Environment and Sustainability: This studio will allow students to investigate various aspects of the environment and sustainability as a force within the architectural profession. Recent increases in global climatic and social pressures have necessitated environmental awareness as well as new architectural design solutions. Issues of conservation, renewable energy, recycling of materials and waste management are but a few necessities in our modern world of today. Using current sustainable design strategies as a foundation, students will analyze and implement their own environmental responsible analyses and designs.
Architectural Design Studio IV (401314) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: Studio on the Art of Structure and Technology. This studio’s primary objective is to link the two basic components of architecture- art and engineering. Based on a firm understanding of structural systems and their appropriate application to architectural design, projects will be designed to incorporate both aesthetic beauty and structural thinking. The influence of technology in the form of new materials and methods will be examined through their design potential. Three-Dimensional manual and digital models will play an essential role in the design development processes of this studio.
Architectural Design Studio V (401321) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: Studio on smart buildings and high-tech architecture. Expanding on the 1970’s theme of High-Tech architecture, this studio aims at redefining the role of cutting edge technology in design- both process and product. Digital technology has revolutionized the way we conceptualized, visualize, present and are eventually able to construct our buildings, making impossible designs of the past a reality. Rapid developments in materials, building systems and construction methods have broadened our design horizons. Issues such as virtual architecture and smart buildings will be explored with regards to their viability and role in the future of architecture.
Architectural Design Studio VI (401412) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: Studio on design in critical Settings- Designing in Historical Contexts. A critical review of works, theories, and polemics in contemporary and traditional architecture. Case studies of buildings within urban settings will be the focus, with an emphasis on sustainable design, adaptive re-use, historic preservation, urban and landscape design practices. Within the context of a historical survey, students will develop a framework to assess and design for contemporary issues in a sustainable perspective.
Urban Design and Landscape Design (401322) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: The Phenomenon of Perception. Space, Time, and Function. Space and Path Visual Analysis. Study & Analysis of Historic Urban Squares, Piazzas and similar spaces The design of different urban spaces. Form and space generation in landscape architecture. Elements of Landscape Architecture and Ecological considerations.
Design Development and Construction Documents (403323) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Development of design into technical documents. Production of construction documents. Design of construction assemblies, constructability aspects and choice of materials. Building coordination and integration using Building Information Modelling applications. Drawing conventions and symbols. Building permit package. Basics of technical specifications.
Islamic Art and Architecture (901324) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: An overview of Islamic architecture from Spain to India from the 7th century to the present. Major examples of religious and secular architecture, including mosques, madrasas, palaces and caravanserais are studied and analyzed with emphasis on the Arab area.
Introduction to Construction Management and Cost Estimating (300414) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Introduction to construction management: participants involved types of construction project life cycle. Estimating techniques and procedures: approximate estimating, quantity surveying, detailed estimating procedure, costing of labor in the Omani market, material, equipment, overhead costs, financing costs, cost recording and cost accounts, Quality Management, and Safety.
Design of Interior Spaces (401423) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: Historical background of Interior Design Styles. Concepts and principles of interior design. Space planning and design. Aesthetics of Interior Design. Color and lighting. Materials selection. Function, material and layout of furniture and textiles. Design for the disabled. Ergonomics and design. Mood Board design. Design drawing and detailing.
Professional Practice, Design Management and Code (401425) ( 2 cr.)
Course Description: Types of architecture firms. Design process management. Business management of architecture firms. Procurement of architectural services. Architects’ administrative role. Architecture practice stakeholders. Building contracts and legal aspects. Building codes. Introduction to real-estate investment concepts. Omani laws as related to the built environment.
Internship in Construction Projects (401331) ( 0 cr.)
Course Description: Each student is required to spend a minimum of 4 weeks of internship in Oman or abroad. These should include substantial practical training in construction activities. A complete account of the experience is reported and evaluated
Internship in Technical Drawing and Design (401332) ( 0 cr.)
Course Description: Each student is required to spend a minimum of 8 weeks of internship in Oman or abroad. The internship should include substantial practical training in technical drawing and design. A complete account of the experience is reported, presented and evaluated. Introduction to professional ethics, professional judgment and the social responsibilities of architects.
Senior Project I (401419) ( 3 cr.)
Course Description: A capstone project. Topics are selected by students from a set defined by advisors and according to their area of interest. Project analysis and research. Developing project brief through definition of the needs of society, users and clients. Preparation of space and functional programs.
Senior Project II (401429) ( 6 cr.)
Course Description: A continuation of senior project I. Comprehensive architectural design demonstrating an understanding of the different conceptual and technical aspects of architecture.