Thesis Manual Revised 2013

Thesis Manual (as of June 2013) ANL 1/27
THE THESIS COURSES

Guidelines and Reference for Architectural Design 9: Pre-Thesis Design Problems
(ARCH 511/DESIGN 951) and Architectural Design 10: Thesis (ARCH 522/DESIGN 052)

INTRODUCTION

The Thesis Courses at the Far Eastern University (FEU) Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts (IARFA)
are the culmination of the institutes Bachelor of Science curriculum program. Thesis is a two-part
progressive course series, beginning with Arch 511 (Pre-Thesis, taken in the first semester after
successful completion of all lower B.S. Architecture courses), the research development stage where the
projects feasibility is thoroughly studied resulting to the formulation of the architectural program, and
Arch 522 (Thesis, taken in the second semester after the successful completion of Arch 511 Pre-Thesis
course), the translation stage where the architectural brief is transformed into a workable and viable
architectural design. The curriculum concludes with the completion, submittal, and approval of the thesis
document (also known as the Architectural Thesis Book).

The Thesis Courses link the goals of general learning process acquired in school with those of
architectural practice. It connects architectural theory with social, cultural, economic, environmental,
political, and other issues beyond formal design principles.

Students are responsible for conceptualizing, framing and realizing the thesis project under the
supervision of the Thesis Advisers. Students articulate the thesis project in class and explore the nature of
the problem through an appropriate conceptual framework, research methodology and architectural
design. Thesis Students formulate a program and select a site to provide the architectural vehicle for
study of the design portion of their thesis.

Through these investigations, Thesis Students are challenged to inject in their design ideas and meaning.

Thesis is an opportunity for students to claim a topic and the course of study that encompasses the design
process from conception through documentation. Students frame the thesis by articulating the
understanding of goals, conceiving a thesis idea investigating the nature of the problem, creating a
program, and choosing a site. Throughout, they are given guidance and support by the thesis advisers and
architecture faculty staff of IARFA, ensuring the successful completion of the degree program.

The learning objectives for the Thesis student include:

1. To be aware of their ideas and recognize that ideas are the source of discovery in the design
process.
2. To demonstrate professional ability in architecture at a level appropriate to a Bachelors graduate
through a chosen design specialization including the integration of building systems, addressing
structural and environmental needs.
3. To develop the ability to combine general and professional education, integrating sociological
and cultural ideas and perspectives from outside the design disciplines in the research and
development of their thesis project.
4. To promote the ability to conceive, develop and convey the elements of architecture through a
proposal the substantially engages the goal of their thesis.
5. To undertake a minimum of three deliberations per semester. Two deliberations inside the
classroom with the Thesis Adviser and consultants and the third one at the end of the semester
with their Thesis Review Panel during Arch 511 and Arch 522.
6. To create a lasting record of their work in the form of a thesis document so that others may refer
to it to enhance their understanding of both the process and the product.

THE THESIS MANUAL

The Thesis Manual is the basic guidelines and reference document to better understand Architectural
Design 9: Pre-Thesis Design Problems (ARCH 511/DESIGN 951) and Architectural Design 10: Thesis
(ARCH 522/DESIGN 052). It gives students the general information to facilitate preparation of
Preliminary Thesis Proposals and the Formal Thesis Proposal for Architectural Design 9; the content,
format and vital processes in the preparation of the Thesis Book for Architectural Design 10.

The Manual also serves as a basic reference for lectures and studio works as well as pertinent activities
associated with Architectural Design 9 and 10; Research Methods for Architecture (RES 44) and the
lower year level architectural design courses Architectural Design 1-8 where research undertakings are
required.

Each student enrolling in ARCH 511/DESIGN 951 and ARCH 522/DESIGN 052 will be provided a copy
of this Manual.

Each section of the Manual describes and requires the following items:

1. THESIS ACTIVITY.
This Section introduces the student to ARCH 511/DESIGN 951 and ARCH 522/DESIGN 052 and the
new approaches to be implemented by the program for this school year. It is a very critical to meet all
requirements in these courses within the allotted schedules to be able to finish the project on time thus it
is a must to practice effective time management. Thesis Advisers will provide each student a set of
schedule of submittals in the early part of the semester and it is advisable that these requirements be
strictly followed. Students with other subjects are expected to manage the situation effectively and must
put in mind that enrollment in ARCH 511/DESIGN 951 or ARCH 522/DESIGN 052 is not to be used as
an excuse for late or non-submission of requirements in other courses taken simultaneously.

2. IARFA THESIS COUNCIL
This Section identifies the members of the council, their duties and responsibilities. The council works in
concerted effort with no member acting independently of the Councils decision. All decisions of the
Thesis Council are final.

3. GUIDELINES & POLICIES FOR APPROVAL OF THESIS TITLE.

A. The Thesis Proposal: Contents & Format (For ARCH 511/DESIGN 951). The Thesis
Proposal frames the thesis in the context of intentions, understanding goals, questions, and ideas.
The proposal must make these ideas clear. It must also make the plan for engaging those ideas
clear through design and research. Contents and requirements submitted by the student will be
thoroughly reviewed by the Thesis Advisers according to the criteria set by the Thesis Council as
stated in this Manual.

B. The Thesis Book: Contents & Format (For ARCH 522/DESIGN 052). The minimum
requirements in the preparation of the Architecture Thesis Book are given in this sub-section. On
a case-to-case basis, the Class Adviser may suggest or require a student more than what is listed.
Graded periodic submittals and assessments are required either in draft, draft-final and final form.
Prompt submission of these requirements is a must. Late submission, for whatever reason, will
not be accepted.

4. ASSESSMENTS AND CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS [Architectural Design 9 (Pre-
Thesis Writing) & Architectural Design 10 (Thesis).

A. All students must present their works on the date and time assigned for consultation. Comments,
evaluations, and guidance will be provided by the Advisers however, it is still the sole
responsibility of the each student to decide whether or not to adapt the same on their final
documents.
B. Assessments shall be based on the following:
1. Punctual submission of requirements
2. Compliance with the required content and format
3. Oral presentation in class, if required, or one-on-one discussion with the class adviser
C. All students are required to have his/her faculty-consultant. Every student will have a minimum
number of consultation hours and the faculty-consultants will be required to provide assessment
grades every grading period. Every consultation activity shall be done in a very professional
maaner within the premises of IARFA/
D. The jury member during the deliberation uses the Rating Sheet provided by the Institute
Coordinator as approved by the Thesis Council. This Rating Sheet will provide base-line
information for future consultations with the students.

5. TARDINESS AND ABSENCES. Restates the University Policy on Tardiness and Absences as
stated in the FEU Students Handbook and the applicable Institute policies specifically for Architecture
Design 9 (Pre-Thesis) and Architectural Design 10 (Thesis)

6. PRE-DELIBERATION/DELIBERATIONS/POST-DELIBERATIONS ACTIVITY.
The step-by-step procedure that a student undertakes before, during, and after each deliberation activity is
defined.

7. JURY MEMBERS AND DELIBERATIONS.
This Section discusses the students decorum as well as the responsibilities of the class advisers and jury
members.

8. SEMESTER RATING.
Shows how the final grades are computed based on the Class Adviser, Faculty-Consultant assessments
and Jury assessments.

9. ATTACHMENTS.
The basic approved presentation format of specific pages required in ARCH 511/DESIGN 951 and
ARCH 522/DESIGN 052 defining the specific font type/s and size; the allowable sizes of presentation
materials like tracing papers, boards and scale models.

10. BEST THESIS
Best Thesis will be chosen after the final deliberation in Arch 522. This award consists of the students
composite rating in both pre-thesis and final thesis. Policies and guidelines are provided under this
section

THE THESIS PROCESS

1. THE THESIS ACTIVITY

Thesis is a process. The student must constructively engage a critical and collaborative design process. A
series of milestone set by the Thesis Advisers, mark key points in the development of the Thesis project.
The student should appreciate how presentation and subsequent response from the reviewers which
include the Advisers, Faculty, Mentors and the Thesis Review Panel will further the educational process.
The reviewers consider the schools and the students objective at each review and advise the Student on
his/her success in addressing objectives. Reviewers advise as well on the Students management of the
process.

The process of discovery is essential in preparing for the Thesis Project. The beginnings of such
processes are often intuited and only partially formed based on the Students limited knowledge of
architecture. Theses usually originate from the recognition of an idea. Students are expected to develop
and pursue advanced work in research and design in pursuit of such ideas.

To facilitate this development, students must actively participate and strictly adhere to the requirements
and schedule of Arch 511. Students must be focused in pursuing the ideas they are interested with. Many
beginnings are very broad, encompassing fields of research that cannot be treated in a single thesis.
Developing focus can be a gradual process from such a beginning. Students are challenged to select a site
and a program of use that can be used as vehicles for exploring the basis of the thesis through appropriate
research design.

The Thesis Courses in general assembly will embark on special lectures to crystallize the ideas of each
student. Subjects and speakers will be properly chosen to impart the critical information to the body.
Furthermore, the Thesis Course will pursue the on-site lectures activities for the students immersion
and exposure to the practice of Architecture. Administrative requirements will be adhered to before
embarking off-campus undertakings.

Many individuals and groups of individuals are available to the Student for advice and consultation
during the Thesis:

Mentors who are faculty members of the IARFA
Faculty members commissioned as Consultants
Students Thesis Adviser
Fellow Students in the Thesis Class
Thesis Committee Members
Writing Staff of the University
Thesis Review Panel Members
Program Head, Institute Coordinators
Dean of the Institute

Many of these individuals and groups come into contact with the project during a specific time for a
specific purpose. Others are involved more continuously. Some may be invited for involvement in the
discretion of the Student or at the recommendation of other members of the teaching staff or the review
panel.


What is the new approach of Architectural Thesis of the I nstitute?

An Architectural Thesis is a body of knowledge involving a process of finding the most viable and
feasible solution to an identified architectural problem. One needs to prove that the identified or preferred
solution or hypothesis is feasible by having enough theoretical background based on previous learning
experiences or as gathered through research. Moreover, case studies and feasibility studies are undertaken
to support the same.

An architectural thesis is an academic exercise that allows a student to prove the viability of his/her
proposed design through innovative approaches. The thesis must add credibility and uniqueness to be
able to contribute to the existing body of knowledge in the field of architecture. The student must inject
innovative ideas to foster values to the profession. Furthermore, the Pre-thesis and Thesis courses must
present the vital integration of all the professional courses in the BS Architecture curricular program
taken by the student in earlier years.

The new approach introduces the Concept of Specialization, Mentoring System and Project
Categorization. This development aims to produce more focused students in realizing their goals through
positive interaction with a broad base of advisors, experts and consultants. Furthermore, the new
approach simulates the interaction that occurs in the professional practice among architects, clients,
consultants, users, and regulatory agencies.

THE CONCEPT OF SPECIALIZATION (In coordination with RESEARCH FOCUS)

Specialization opens up a new venue for the students of IARFA. It aims to break up complex projects
into manageable smaller units on which Thesis Students can now focus their research and design
capability. The concept effectively prevents the student from undertaking the whole project complexes
single-handedly which usually ends up with the student acquiring superficial knowledge. Students are
expected to know specific details of the chosen unit. Choosing the specific area must be based the
application of RESEARCH FOCUS. Details must effectively show how research focus is utilized.
In addition to the other requirements of the Thesis Document however, design analysis, in relation to the
other components of the complex through specific architectural programming, space programming using
the required listings of equipment and furniture, specific details of required utilities, outline specification
of materials and material boards, costing and basic structural concept analysis will be part and parcel of
the submittals required for each student. At the culmination of the Thesis Course, the student can claim to
have an in-depth technical knowledge of the chosen unit.

Specialization makes group work a possibility. A number of students may work on one building complex
concentrating on different units of the project. At the finalization of the groupings, each member should
choose their respective units based on either existing similar complex or from other references which
discuss the possible accommodation units of the complex. Researches on their respective units will be
handled separately by each member. As a group, however, the member students must be able to produce
a common master plan for the complex incorporating their respective units. The key to this arrangement is
close coordination. The group must work together as one making sure that their unit will be
architecturally and structurally coordinated with the other units.

Formation of the grouping is the sole responsibility of the Thesis Advisers. Each student will submit their
own proposals and based on the approved proposal, the groupings will be initiated.

The students who choose to work on simple projects within the senior architectural level will be allowed.
However, they will be required to produce the same requirements for the chosen project.

Choosing the area of specialization requires as in-depth understanding of the main thesis goals and
objectives. The space should be RELEVANT and ESSENTIAL to the main function of the thesis project
and it must include the surrounding areas to make the chosen space focus workable and operational.
Furthermore, the space focus must vividly show the actual application of the Research Focus. The
minimum presentation requirements are stated in the Thesis Book Format and Contents.

THE MENTORING CONCEPT

Thesis Courses are venues to introduce the students to field of actual professional practice. They simulate
the interaction among architects, supervising architects, consultants, clients, and regulating agencies. It is
an effective means to introduce the student to the industrys approach in real-life architecture project
development. The student, who acts as the project designer, chooses and IARFA architect-faculty
member as his/her consultant based on the facultys professional experience and specialization. The
students thesis class advisers in this respect oversees the various stages of project development and acts
as the design supervisor regularly conferring with both students and faculty consultants; the triad now
becomes members of the architecture project team working on a particular architecture project, i. e. the
thesis. The scenario brings about the real industry situations allowing students to better appreciate the
architecture profession through an innovative teaching architectural firm.

The students must carefully take note of his/her responsibilities and the limitations of the responsibilities
of the consultants in this mentoring concept. He/She is required to regularly meet with his/her respective
faculty-consultants at various stages of the thesis projects. This will enable him/her to effectively
complete his/her work in an atmosphere of professionalism through simulated industry set-up, thus
maintaining a healthier platform for classroom discussion where students improve their communication
skills brought about by the meaningful consultations in the spirit of professional transactions and
negotiations between and amongst the student-designer, faculty-consultant, and the class adviser-design
supervisor. WARNING: All consultations must be done within the premises of IARFA. The
following diagram clarifies these relationships:

MENTORING ORGANIZATIONAL SET-UP

The responsibilities of each faculty-consultant are limited to simple architectural or structural advice and
critiquing only. He/She will not be allowed to write any part of the Thesis Document nor prepare the
plans for presentation purposes. Faculty-consultants shall be provided with contract documents properly
acknowledged by the student and the thesis advisers.

There are three main mentors in the Thesis Courses, namely the Thesis Advisers, The Consultants and the
Jurors. The students must be fully aware of the responsibilities of each. Because of differences in
exposures and experiences, there are instances where comments of the mentors are vague and conflicting.
The student must use his/her own judgment in this regard being the main author of the project. If,
however, the conflict remains unresolved in spite of the judgment call of the student, it is recommended
that he/she seeks the assistance of the Thesis Council for further clarification.

THE PROJECT CATEGORIZATION

The United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) Document 202 provides a long list of project
classifications where the students can choose their Thesis Proposals. The Thesis Course categorizes the
projects in consideration of this document and based on the expertise of the Thesis Advisers. This
innovative approach will be advantageous to both the student and the Thesis Adviser. Consultation will
be very productive because of the familiarity of the Thesis Adviser with the project. The student, on the
other hand, will learn more from the previous experiences of the Thesis Adviser. The Project Category
THESIS COUNCIL
Dean and Thesis Advisers
THESIS ADVISERS
Design Supervisor
JURORS
Clients
STUDENTS
Designers
CONSULTANTS

35% of Grade
60% of Grade
5% of Grade
THE TRIAD
Thesis Proper
will pre-determine the section and Thesis Adviser of the student. Approved Project Proposals will be
grouped according to the following category:

1. Group 1 - COMMERCIAL, OFFICE BUILDINGS, MIXED USE AND OTHER MULTI-
STOREY BUILDINGS
2. Group 2 SPORTS AND RECREATION, ENTERTAIMENT, MUSEUM AND RESORT
COMPLEX
3. Group 3 UNIVERSITY COMPLEX, HOUSING COMPLEX, INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX,
AND HOSPITAL COMPLEX
4. Group 4 GOVERNMENTAL, INSTITUTIONAL, MEMORIAL, TERMINAL COMPLEX,
AND CHURCHES
5. Group 5 OTHER PROJECTS NOT IN THE PRESEECING CATEGORIZATION

Each category will have 35 students only. Students are encouraged to submit a Thesis Proposal based on
his/her interest. With the limited number per category, it is advisable to submit the proposals as early as
practicable. Evaluation will be done according to the time and date stamped by the staff of the IARFA
administration.

Preliminary Thesis Proposal

A Preliminary Thesis Proposal frames the thesis in the context of intentions, understanding goals,
questions, and ideas. It presents the students idea and knowledge about his/her proposed thesis project. It
gives the reader a summary or an ABSTRACT on what the project is all about and its significance. It is
preferable that the student should have gone through an immersion process even before writing his/her
preliminary proposal.

How to choose a thesis topic

What are you interested in? It is always best to select a topic that is of interest to you.
Are there groups, organizations or proponents, which support such interests and do they have
possible projects?
Is the proponent aware of any government agency, department or unit, which has proposed
projects? Initial information may be gathered by inquiring at the provincial, municipal and/or
city planning office or by reading broad sheet newspapers, magazines, architectural and
engineering journals, government gazettes, etc. National and Regional Development Plans, and
local government or sector reports may have information regarding planned developments and
possible sources of funds for such projects.
Local and foreign architecture magazines spell out new concepts and projects which can be
explored at the academic level. However, caution must be taken with regards feasibility and
applicability of foreign examples to local conditions. The availability of organizational and
financial support, data availability and privacy or accessibility limitations must also be aptly
considered.
Are there remarkable changes in key external forces (economic, social, cultural, demographic,
environmental, political, governmental, legal, and technological)? Analysis of these new trends
will generate new concepts in architecture.
Of the projects identified through the aforementioned process, which one can you use? The
project may either be at the conceptual level or already in the pipeline.

Clearly, selecting a proposed project is not simply getting a title from a friends approved
proposal or from a previously submitted thesis book. A checklist of project choices is
recommended which can be used as a basis in finally choosing the project a student will embark
on. A student may be surprised that he/she has been doing this exercise unconsciously.

CRI TERI A ON HOW TO SELECT AND DETERMI NE THE THESI S PROJ ECT

The student may evaluate his/her proposed project using the following ratings for the given set of
criteria:

1 Poor, 2 Fair, 3 Good, 4 Very Good, 5 Excellent

CRITERIA TOPIC A TOPIC B TOPIC C
Interesting
Scope of Work
Location of the Site
Availability of Data/Related and
Relevant Literature/Case Studies

Research Topic Adaptable
Funding of Project
Others (enumerate)
TOTAL

The Research Focus at the start of the semester is still very wide in scope. A student is supposed to
limit this focus to a manageable scope that will need to be integrated in his/her research and
application.

Before proceeding, here are some worthwhile reminders that a student must always keep in mind:

1. Always be aware of deadlines. PROCRASTINATION will not do you good. It is always wise to
work on your assessments early to have ample time to review and evaluate your output.
2. Be PUNCTUAL in coming to class, submitting requirements, consulting schedules and most
especially during deliberation schedules.
3. PLAGIARISM is a major offense. This practice can even cause your EXPULSION from the
University. Never copy directly from your source/s. If you have to use an authors idea,
acknowledge the said author. Students must carefully identify the source material presented in
the proposal and in the final document. All quotations and paraphrases of text and drawings by
others must be accompanied by a footnote to the source on the same or facing page or by
endnotes at the end of the narrative. All quotations and paraphrasing of facts and ideas obtained
in interviews must be accompanied by a reference to the source on the same or facing page,
4. Make it a habit to have a dictionary and a thesaurus when doing your work.
5. Always have note cards, preferably 3 X 5, to record the author, book or reference material title,
year of publication, publisher, pages, and pertinent copyright details when doing your research so
you can file and acknowledge your references/sources. Doing so saves time and energy.
6. It is always wise to have your work checked by your English professor before submitting it to
your thesis adviser. Good grammar makes good sense! Put in mind that your thesis book is a
major sample of work that you can use in looking for a job.
7. An excellent way to present your data is through sketches, graphs, charts and photographs,
especially to the jury members during deliberations. But be sure that these diagrams or
illustrations are well explained and used effectively.
8. It is best to have your own personal computer with applicable programs as much as possible.
Windows allows use of many other programs simultaneously.
9. Practice formal public speaking in front of the mirror and/or with your friends, and even better in
front of the class. As a service-oriented professional, an architect must effectively use not only
drawings and plans but also verbal communication to convey ideas and concepts to his/her
clients.
10. Inform your parents/benefactors ahead of time about financial requirements and priority
expenditures in the preparation of your thesis project. This avoids problems brought about by not
having the finances to procure important items. However, it is always wise to save by being
innovative and practical in the use of materials, especially if such materials can be recycled.

2. THESIS COUNCIL ORGANIZATION

2.1 The Class Advisers of ARCH 511/DESIGN 951 and ARCH 522/DESIGN 052, the Program
Head for Architecture and the IARFA Dean form the Thesis Council. Each member of the
Council with the exception of the Dean reads and approves or disapproves proposals submitted
using the guidelines enumerated in this manual. In certain cases brought about by the
complexity of the proposal, the Dean reads the submission, and in consultation with the other
Council members, approves or disapproves the proposal.
2.2 The Council formulates, reviews, and revises policies set for the semester. It ensures the
enforcement of the policies and guidelines, and approves or disapproves thesis proposals. The
institute Coordinator for Thesis recommends to the Dean matters relating to requests,
suggestions, and complaints.
2.3 The decision of the Council is final and no member can singly overturn the Councils decision.
2.4 The IARFA Dean, in consultation with the Program Head for Architecture shall decide when a
conflict arises. And the decision rendered is final.
2.5 The Thesis Council generally meets on the third Monday of the month to discuss the
development and pertinent problems of the Thesis Program. The Institute Coordinator acts as
the moderator and a secretary will be assigned to take the minutes for proper recording of issues
taken up during the meeting. Other representatives of IARFA, i.e. faculty-consultants, structural
consultants, etc., will be invited to join the meeting as need arises.

3. GUIDELINES & POLICIES FOR APPROVAL OF THE THESIS PROPOSAL

A. FORMAT & CONTENTS OF THE THESIS PROPOSAL (Enrollment Requirement for
ARCH 511/DESIGN 951)

3.1 A student must have undergone the IMMERSION STAGE through any or all of the methods:
library readings, interviews, observation related to proposed projects at least two (2) months
before he/she enrolls in ARCH 511/DESIGN 951. Accordingly, a Preliminary Thesis proposal
must be submitted for project categorization to determine the students assigned class section.
3.2 The preliminary proposal must be in the form of at least 250 words ABSTRACT. Such
Abstract must present the summary of a proposed project, specifically mentioning the
highlights and significance including the relevant research foci. A reference list must be
attached citing the materials you have used to gain valid ideas and concepts about the
proposal being submitted. Although one thesis proposal is required before enrollment,
students are instructed to prepare more than one preliminary proposal. Sections are quota and
project based. In the event the desired section is filled up, the student will be asked to submit
another proposal of different project category.
3.3 The Preliminary Thesis Proposal must have a Thesis Proposal Cover Page (see Attachment 1a)
and stapled on the upper left hand corner of the paper. The proposal will be placed in a long
brown envelope with a title PRELIMINARY THESIS PROPOSAL under which is written the
full name (with surname first), student number, and contact numbers all on the upper left corner
of the envelope.
3.4 The envelope must be submitted at the IARFA Office window where a thesis council
representative receives records and classifies submittal as to date and time submitted. Wait for a
Confirmation Receipt from the representative who received your envelope. You will be properly
instructed whether or not to submit another proposal.
3.5 The envelope with the Preliminary Thesis Proposal, in abstract format, must be submitted
on the day of enrollment.
3.6 The Council starts reviewing proposals days before the first day of classes, but not to exceed the
first week classes. The Dean reads proposals requiring deliberation to be accepted.
3.7 Criteria for Approval: A Council member may out rightly approve a proposal when the:
Proposal is need-oriented
Proposal is doable and feasible
Format and contents are followed
Appropriate Research Focus is chosen and integrated in the abstract
Thesis Title and revisions were not submitted in the previous three semesters
3.8 The Class Adviser will review the proposal. The Council approves/disapproves before
distributing back the proposals to the advisory class. All APPROVED and APPROVED
WITH COMMENTS proposals shall be refined after advisers recommendations.
3.9 A Preliminary Thesis Proposal is considered approved if more than half (50% + one) of the total
number of Advisers has granted approval on the said proposal.
3.10 A Preliminary Thesis Proposal may be revised or new one may be submitted only once to the
Council, but it must be done within two days before the last day of approval, which is to be
announced by the Institute Coordinator for Thesis.
3.11 Together with the preliminary proposal, the student submits a WAIVER form (secure this from
the IARFA Office) and a LETTER OF INTRODUCTION (see Attachment 3) in duplicate on
an FEU letterhead signed by the student, recommended by the class adviser, endorsed by the
Institute Coordinator and finally approved by the IARFA Dean.

3.12 The Preliminary Thesis Proposals must follow the conventions enumerated below:

Paper Size : A4 Bond Paper
Font/Size : Times New Roman, 12 pt. Bold Titles of Section,
1 Top, Bottom, Right including Headers and Footers,
1.5 including Gutter Left
Spacing : 1.5 spaces for contents of each section; 2 spaces after every
section title and 3 spaces after every major section

3.13 The approved preliminary proposal in abstract form will then be submitted as a FORMAL
THESIS PROPOSAL following the Thesis Proposal Contents described in ITEM 3.14, below.
The conventions to be used must follow the ones in Item 3:12 above. The Thesis class advisers
will announce the submission date of the Formal Thesis Proposal on the first day of classes.

3.14 The Formal Thesis Proposal Contents. Listed below are the major sections of the Formal
Thesis Proposal, which must be included in the submission.

Cover Page (see Attachment 1b)

The content of the Formal Thesis Proposal includes:

TITLE with the RESEARCH DESIGN FOCUS: The Thesis Course will not limit the
subject of the research focus however; the student should be able to show the value of
his/her research in the architectural profession as a whole. It must clearly show the
contribution of the research to the practice of architecture.
BACKGROUND/OVERVIEW OF THE PROBLEM: Historical comment with references
to incorporate observed and perceived problems; relevant quotations from experts in the
field and other authors may add credibility, but such quotes must be properly
acknowledged. This section ends with the overall Statement of the Problem(s) in the
architectural aspect presented in bullet form.
ARCHITECTURAL AIM(S) or GOAL(S) and OBJECTIVE(S) of the study. This is the
statement of the perceived outcome of the proposed project in bullet form..
RESEARCH DESIGN (methods to be used in collecting and analyzing the data gathered).
Data needed to achieve the architectural objective(s), whether you anticipate that all data
will be available, where it will be obtained and how you are going to go about collecting it.
What collection method/s will you use? Perusal of documents? Interviews?
Questionnaires? Observation? A Survey? A combination of methods? Outline how you
intend to analyze your data. A word of caution. The student must carefully select data that
are relevant to the project and to the research focus and he/she must know when to stop
data gathering and start writing!
SCOPE & LIMITATION OF THE RESEARCH & ARCHITECTURAL PROJECT. It is
always best to define the scope of the project; are there any constraints or limitation that
you need to consider? What will limit the amount of data you intend to collect for your
study?
SPECIFIC WORK SCHEDULE FOR THE SEMESTER. Include all milestones. These
are target dates as approved by the Thesis Council such as submittal of presentation
materials for endorsement to deliberate and the particular days for deliberations. Always
consider your other courses and the Universitys academic calendar when preparing
your schedule for the Thesis project.
LIST OF REFERENCES. This is not a bibliography. The reference list includes all
sources of information you have used particularly those you have adopted in the
preparation of your thesis project. These are sources vital to your research focus and
material references necessary for the completion of your work. There is no set minimum or
maximum number of references to be used for your work. What is important is that you are
able to read important references to enable you to have a thorough understanding of your
project and the relevant development trends concerning such. This can be acquired through
substantial research work. The entries in your reference list contain all the necessary
information related to the publication you are referring to. This primarily includes the
author, year of publication, title of the reference material, publisher, and place of
publication, and specific page/s in the reference where the idea, concept or quote appears.
The reference list must include sources other than the National Building Code, Time Saver
Standards for Building Types and the Architectural Graphic Standards.
BIBLIOGRAPHY. This includes general material or sources of information you have read
that may have contributed in general to the preparation of your thesis book. This must be
distinguished from a reference list; whereas bibliographic entries are general information
materials from which you may have indirectly linked your work with, while reference list
contains all information sources specific and directly connected with your particular study.
SPACES FOR APPROVAL OF THE THESIS COUNCIL. For a Proposal to be approved
50 % plus one of the approved signature of the Thesis Council members are needed. For
the meantime, the names of the members of the Thesis Council must be left blank unless
specified below. (see Attachment 2)

B. FORMAT & CONTENTS OF THE THESIS BOOK (FOR ARCH 522)
As a prelude to the whole content of the Thesis Book, below are some of the important items to
consider when formulating ideas in each section:

CHAPTER 1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND/OVERVIEW: Description of the Situation
Macro-environmental Situation: What are the changes (developments) either local or global
that led to the formulation of the Proposal? Are there problems that necessitate
architectural solutions? Are there issues of concern (positive or negative, observed or
perceived) to justify undertaking a project?
Project Description: Describe/define what the Proposal is all about. The description is in
narrative form and shall include the following information:
Client/Project Proponent: The individual or a group who commissioned you as the
Architect to study the Project proposal.
Function(s): Statement of use of the Project.
Activities: The major activities that will lead to the space requirements of the
Project.
Users Description: Identity of the end users, target number to be served and the
catchments area of the proposed Project.
Special Requirements: Statement of the Project Objectives of the Client. These
may also reflect the additional activities/spaces of the Client outside of the standard
requirements of the Project.
Availability of Budget: Description of the source of funding for the proposed
Project and the discussion of the manner on how the Project will be financed.

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Based on the situation stated in Section 1.1,
formulate the architectural problems. This is NOT the problems you stated in Section 1.1,
this is statement of YOUR THESIS PROJECT. This is your answer to the architectural
concerns of the current Macro-environmental Situation (issues) and the Clients Project
Objectives. This section shall be written in Declarative or Narrative form. Identify your
MAJOR PROBLEM (Thesis Project) and the MINOR PROBLEMS (Special features of the
project which include, in addition to the Research Focus, architectural elements gathered
from researches that will make your project UNIQUE and totally YOUR OWN.

1.3 ARCHITECTURAL GOAL & OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES. Always remember that
your statements in this section are ARCHITECTURAL in content. Your GOAL is to
formulate a UNIQUE, FEASIBLE and WORKABLE architectural solution to the
prevailing issues. You are to describe the architectural problem as a HYPOTHESIS or
question of interest to architects, engineers and other managers that can be tested or
answered through the collection and analysis of data and design solution of the project. You
set your OBJECTIVES to achieve your goal and to attain your objectives, you are to show
the different approaches you are going to use. Objective must be S.M.A.R.T., Specific,
Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time bound. Approaches are your STRATEGIES.
For clarity, each objective should have each own strategy.

Section 1.2 and Section 1.3 are directly linked to each other. The major problem with the
special features shall be developed to form the GOAL of the project and the intended
solution to the minor problems shall be part of the OBJECTIVES.

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESEARCH: Indicate how your research will refine, revise,
or extend existing knowledge in Architecture and how your proposed solution will inspire
others to pursue further study. You are also to indicate how your research will respond to
the prevailing issues (Section 1.1). There are two potential audiences in this study:
practitioners of the architectural professions and students in architecture and the target
users of the project. Statements relating to the significance of the research to both groups
are essential and in order.

1.5 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE: This is a careful study of all available primary
and secondary sources of data and information pertaining to the area or problem under
investigation. The survey of related literature involves the comprehensive documentation
of published and unpublished materials relevant to the architectural problem. Review of
Related Literature will:
Familiarize the reader with previous studies done related to the present topic.
Serve as a source of research problems which can be reduced from existing studies.
Ensure that important variables relevant to the study are not overlooked.
Establish the need/significance/justification in conducting present study.
Provide historical background/perspectives about the study.
Serve as a basis for the development of the theoretical/conceptual framework.
Avoids the unnecessary duplication of selecting a research problem which had
been done before.
Help to give more focus, direction, and clarity to the study.

For these Thesis Courses, the minimum requirements are either three (3) Foreign
Literatures or two (2) Local Literatures or three (3) Local Literatures and two (2) Foreign
Literatures. The format shall be:
Title/Topic of the Literature
Synopsis
Critique: Advantages/Disadvantages

1.6 HYPOTHESIS: This is a perceptive guess of inference that is formulated and previously
adapted to explain observed facts or conditions to guide in further investigation.
Hypothesis should be stated only for those analyses which were contemplated before the
data were collected. The hypotheses should represent your best synthesis of the problem
before undertaking the study. It encourages you to crystallize your thinking about the
likely relationship to be found and it further encourage you to think about implications of a
supported or rejected finding.
In research, a hypothesis serves several important functions:
It guides the direction of the study.
It identifies facts that are relevant and those that are not.
It suggests what form of research design is likely to be most appropriate.
It provides a framework for organizing the conclusions that result.

1.7 CONCEPTUAL/THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK: A set of ideas or concept and
practices that shape the way work is done in a project. Conceptual Framework explains
why a project is done in a particular way and it can help you to understand and use the
ideas of others who have done similar things. A framework help you decide and explain
why you use certain methods or approaches to get to a certain point, in this case, the
solution of the Thesis problem. With Conceptual Framework, you can justify why you
would try this or that path, based on the experience of others, and on what you would like
to explore or discover.
The Thesis Courses require you to prepare a schematic diagram showing the route you will
be taking from the inception of the problem to the proposed solution of the project. For
each stage in the diagram, it is mandatory to show what you intend to do and what results
are to be expected. One of the aims of the Thesis Courses is for you to have a unique
project; thus, you must have your own unique Conceptual Framework.

1.8 RESEARCH DESIGN: A strategy for a study and the plan by which the strategy is to be
carried out. It specifies the methods and procedures for the collection, measurement, and
analysis of data. If the direction of the research project is not clear, it is suggested you
follow a two-step research procedure. The first stage is exploratory, aimed at formulating
HYPOTHESES and developing the specific research design. The general research process
contains three major stages: (1) exploration of the situation, (2) collection of data, and (3)
analysis and interpretation of results.
Methods and Procedures:
Development of instrument(s). Describe in detail what will be done to develop
the instrument(s).
Sampling. Show and describe in detail how sampling is chosen and provide the
arbitrary criteria that will be used.
Data collection. Indicate how data are collected and if interviews are to be
undertaken, provide sample questionnaires. Furthermore, include a detailed time
schedule for data collection and analysis.
Data analysis. Describe data handling, preliminary analysis, statistical tests,
computer programs, and other technical information. The rationale for the choice
of analysis should be clear. A brief commentary on assumptions and
appropriateness of use should be presented.

1.9 SCOPE & LIMITATION OF THE RESEARCH & THE ARCHITECTURAL
PROJECT: It is the condensed description of the works extent or coverage. It is
important to determine the dimension of difficulty of the proposed study. It must present a
clearer view of what you are going to undertake i.e. the selection and process of site
investigation, environmental systems and the processes involved, space design and
planning theories/principles to be applied, cost and budget sources and constraints, etc.
Limitations constitute the weaknesses of the study beyond your control. The limitation
statement should be clearly provided to give the reader the extent of your study in terms of
its comparison with the scope given. Scope and limitation are validating complements of
each other.

1.10 DEFINITION OF TERMS:
General Textual Definitions
They are divided into two groups, namely:
A. Contextual Definitions: These are words, terms, phrases, concepts, or abbreviations
saliently used in the write-up from which the readers are not too familiar with. The
meanings of them are directly lifted from source such as dictionaries, thesaurus and
other sources of information.
B. Operational Definitions: These are terms (standard or colloquial), phrase or concepts
exclusively adopted by the researcher either commonly used or coined which have
different meanings as integrated in the write-up. They should clearly define the
alluded exclusive meaning/s as utilized for reading comprehension and understanding
of thought.
Definition of Design Elements: These may come later but should be located on this
page/section of the study. They are spatial nomenclatures as given for a specific project
especially those that are exclusive on the project. Example: runabout, porte-cochere, de-
molding area, holding space, frisking point, and other terms which may not find their
presence in any given structure/project ordinarily.
1.11 TIMETABLE: Schedule for gathering data, analysis, draft, revised draft, etc. Prepare a
time schedule in the form of a Gantt chart (Bar Graph) for a workable time management.
Target date for each activity must be carefully studied to systematize the project and to
minimize the natural tendency to procrastinate. Timetable must be regularly checked and
adjusted to anticipate major backlogs or other causes of delays.

CHAPTER 2.0 ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAMMING DATA
2.1 SITE SELECTION PROCESS
2.1.1 Site Selection Criteria/Adaptability of the Site to the Project
(Note: If a specific site is provided by the client, it is required that the site is
thoroughly evaluated according to the following criteria and the student must provide
necessary recommendations. Section 2.1.2 Description of Site Options and Section
2.1.3 Site Selection & Justifications are not included in this condition.)
Location that will give:
Maximum positive benefit of the project to the locality
Maximum negative impact of the project to the community
Best use for the project
Site Requirements
Sufficient land area (Based on National Building Codes and other government
requirements and policies.
Appropriate terrain. Analysis using slope maps.
Consistency with land use/zoning. If a conversion is necessary, procedures must
be clearly defined with proper cost evaluations.
Affordability. Cost must be based on either Market Value or Zonal value
whichever is higher.
Availability of Utilities
2.1.2 Description of Site Options (at least 3 options)
2.1.3 Site Selection and Justification: It is recommended that you present and prove
through a RATING TABLE the site selected is the best site for the project.
2.1.4 Site Analysis
2.1.4.1 Macro Site Analysis (of the site selected)
Macro site analysis gives considerations on the factors outside of the specific
project site that will affect the development strategies.
2.1.4.1.1 Physical Profile
Vicinity map; general climatological data; geological/geomorphic data;
soil data and other environmental data which are common to the specific
site or lot and the surrounding areas.
Land Use and zoning map is required to pinpoint the actual land use
patterns to where the site is, whether it is the existing or proposed land
use prepared by the local government planning office.
Image map of the catchment area (3 km. radius) will show the
development patterns in the vicinity of the lot that will have an impact on
the project. This will include maps showing edges, distinct
characteristics, landmarks, nodes and paths. These will be incorporated
in one map or separate ones. Image map will indicate if the project is
viable on the chosen site. It will show whether there are similar
developments within the catchment influence that will have a positive or
negative effect on the project. Negative it there are too many
competitions or overcrowding of the type of facility similar to the
proposed project and positive if the other facilities are beneficial to the
project.
Available utility systems near/adjacent to the site must be identified.
Access systems to and fro the site must be identified properly.
All maps must have an indication of the project site and must be
accompanied with a short explanation regarding the purpose of these
maps.
2.1.4.1.2 Socio-Economic Profile
The socio-economic environment and its relative studies must be
presented including various demographic data and social structures to come
up with a thorough analysis. Smallest government unit i.e. barangay in the
project area must be included.
Regional data will only be necessary if the project is regional in scope.
Years 2007 and 2012 will be the observation point of projections.
Projections will show that the project considers future capabilities.
Socio-economic environment must focus on the socio-economic sector
that will have direct impact on or from your project. Example, education
sector it the project is a research/educational facility; health sector if the
project is about health facility; protective services if the project is on
security/rehabilitation centers; sports sectors if the project revolves in
sports/recreation; economic sector if the project is
trade/economy/business; tourism sector if project is tourism
oriented/related; etc.
Statistical data related to the respective sectors mentioned above.
Histo-cultural data that will contribute to the character of the structures
to be proposed.
Other economic sectors not directly related to the project should be
summarized. Details are not important.
2.1.4.2 Micro Site Analysis
Micro site analysis is the study of the environmental factors within or inside
the specific site. Completeness of micro site data and analysis will give a
clear picture of development potentials and constraints of the site.
Map of the lot showing its topography.
A slope map and slope profile to show the slope categories and slope
characteristics of the site. The slope profile or section of site will
influence building patterns and will show areas which are buildable and
which are not. These data will also determine the type of structural
system for the proposed project.
The surface drainage run-off pattern indicates roadway pattern and areas
not suited for location of structures.
A vegetation map is necessary if there are existing vegetations on the site
that needs to be preserved.
Orientation of the site with reference to the sun. Sun path analysis is
critical in the design and massing of the structure/s.
2.1.4.3 SWOT Analysis Matrix (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats of
the proposed site)
SWOT Analysis Matrix is an important matching tool that helps
managers (architects included) develops four types of strategies: SO
(strengths-opportunities) Strategies, WO (weaknesses-opportunities)
Strategies, ST (strengths-threats) Strategies, and WT (weaknesses-
threats) Strategies.
Strengths and Weaknesses are conditions within the site that will give
impact to the project.
Threats and Opportunities are conditions outside of the site that will
greatly affect the project.
Prepare listings of the SWOT of the site in a matrix.
SO Strategies must use the sites strengths to take advantage of the sites
opportunities.
WO Strategies overcome sites weaknesses by taking advantage of the
opportunities of the site.
ST Strategies use sites strengths to avoid site threats.
WT Strategies minimize sites weaknesses and avoid sites threats.
The purpose of the SWOT Analysis Matrix is to generate
strategies/solutions not to select or determine which strategies/solutions
are best.
2.1.4.4 User Analysis
2.1.4.4.1 Demographic data of Expected Users
Statistical data of major users/clients/visitors of the proposed facilities.
Statistical data coverage depends on the projected users. Is the project
municipal, provincial, regional, or national?
Specific sector of the population to be targeted must be identified. Is it
the students? Tourists (foreign or local)? The economically
disadvantaged? Or anybody?
Are you going to target the whole population or only percentage of it?
2.1.4.4.2 Organizational Structure
The organizational structure shows the hierarchy of the people who shall
manage the site project after its completion.
The source of the proposed organizational chart/structure must be
indicated.

2.1.5 Laws/Ordinances (pertaining to the site)
Zoning regulations; related laws/ordinances (BPs, HLURB guidelines, etc.) as to
setbacks, open space requirements, floor area ration, height of building, parking
space requirements.
Maximum building envelope as set by laws/zoning ordinances.
Architectural character, etc.
Chapter 7 & 8 of the Building Code will be given emphasis

2.1.6 Site Development Options
Based on the analysis of the site, site development options/alternatives are presented
for in-depth study. From these options, the final site development plan will be
chosen. The study must include the following:
Location/arrangement of the building/s on the site.
Form/volume/building envelop depending on the surrounding areas, terrain and
orientation.
Landscaping approach/concept
Site development concept
Show Schemes and corresponding analysis (graphical/narrative) for each of the
scheme.

2.2 RESEARCH FOCUS: It is the research topic that will make the thesis project unique or
increase its architectural value. It can be an existing theory or a concept that you are
interested to apply to the project. It is advisable to start the inception of your Research
Focus during the finalization stage of your thesis topic. Research Focus is a very broad
subject thus, topics will be limited to the thesis theme for the year i.e. Ecological
Technology; Green Architecture; etc. You are to justify/rationalize the topic you have
decided to use for your thesis, state your goal and objectives and explain clearly through an
analytical framework how your topic will work. For uniformity, you are to include the
following:
Title of Research Focus (include source of data)
Summary (include photos, illustrations of research focus being presented)
Significance of the Research Focus
Objectives of the Research: How the topic will make the project unique, what is
needed to be proven and why.
Analytical Framework: Show the basis of the research and the approaches you
are going to apply.
Description and comparative analysis of your focus compared with other
conventional options.
Recommendation for application

Examples of Research Focus
1. Studies which will evaluate and assess the structure of values between and within
societies and communities which influence the design of the built environment
and urban systems. CULTURAL STUDIES in architecture involves the
following disciplines;
Arts and Social Sciences
History
Sociology
Anthropology
Human Psychology
Theory and Criticism
2. Studies which analyze and synthesize the design and science of the built form for
the purpose of setting general design standards, principles and guidelines for
improving architectural space. This BUILDING DESIGN studies includes topics
as:
General design methods
Modes of construction and structural systems
Intelligent use of indigenous materials
Maintenance strategies and security measures
Performance efficiencies
Circulation patterns and space utilization studies
Design for disabled and elderly
Traditional architecture
Architectural engineering: energy conservation, green architecture and
sustainable design, environmental controls, fire safety and protection,
lighting and day lighting, heat and ventilation, indoor air quality,
occupational health and comfort conditions.
3. Studies involving research on physical development of URBAN and
REGIONAL systems:
Transportation networks
Space utilization
Zoning
Pollution control
Low cost housing
Communication and infrastructure network
Waste disposal

2.3 CASE STUDIES OF RELATED WORKS: In this part, you will present case studies of
previous architectural studies, whether proposed or existing. This study will give your
proponent (client) more information about the project through investigation of existing
structures or otherwise which are related to the one being proposed. Critiquing is an
important aspect of this chapter. You should not be solely dependent on references found
in textbooks. Actual gathering of information from existing local structures related to the
thesis topic is highly advisable. Case studies to be presented shall be composite of local
and foreign cases preferably a set of two foreign and one local or two locals and one
foreign. You are going to search for meanings or inspiration from the cases NOT
necessarily copying them.
Title of Case Studies (include source of data)
Summary of (positive and/or negative) Critiques (include photos, illustrations
of case studies showing plans and other architectural presentations)
Significance of the Case to be studied
Objectives of the Case Studies to show how the studies are beneficial to the
thesis project.
Analytical Framework: the approaches that you have adapted
Description and comparative analysis of the cases
Recommendation for application

2.4 ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAMMING: This is the process of investigating, identifying
and documenting the needs of the client for use in the design of the project. This will mean
getting to know the clients needs, facilities required to satisfy the needs: the functions that
it will perform, space required, instruction both on land use and facilities, size of the project
and cost both initial and operational. Spatial or design elements must be determined and its
identification must be known according to what the project requires. Spatial elements and
their identification can be done through the following approaches/sources:
Staffing requirements consistent with projected target users/clients of the
project.
Organizational charts of existing similar projects.
Projects in the Case Studies to determine space requirements and their
relationships.
You are required to undertake a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the spatial elements.
Qualitative analysis states the quality of spaces desired as to color, ambiance, planning,
lighting, etc. while quantitative analysis shows space parameters derived from standards
such as the National Building Code (NBC), Local or Time Saver Standards. Using design
parameters for furniture and equipment and adapting the unit space measure for individual
user and corresponding circulation percentage, you can compute for the approximate area
of the element. You are advised to formulate your own space modules for ease of
computation.
Space Requirements
Matrices and Space Interrelationship
Space Programming using table identifying spaces, users, quality of space,
space parameter, approximate areas and space modules.
Laws/Ordinances pertaining to space requirements. You must be aware of
the laws, codes and other ordinances that regulate your type of project i.e.
Fire Code regulating the width of the corridor, the locations and distances of
doors, location of stairs etc.

2.5 FEASIBILITY STUDY: Thesis Courses require you to prepare an in-depth analysis to
check whether or not the project can be realized. This is done through Cost of Project-
Benefits from Project analysis. The cost of project includes cost of building and other
developments using various estimating methods with the operating (overhead) cost for a
specific target number of years while the benefits are the income generated by the project.
Using these values, you can prepare a simple income statement leading you to the
computation of the ROI (Return on Investments or when will the clients get back their
investment) and the PP (Payback Period or when can the project payback the investment
using its yearly income). As a general rule, you cannot have a positive ROI before the PP.
It is recommended that you compute your ROI after the PP.

2.6 LIST OF REFERENCES OF THE CHAPTER/END NOTES: List of references is
books and other materials you will often use for your research.

CHAPTER 3.0 ARCHITECTURAL TRANSLATION
3.1 Design Considerations and corresponding design solutions
3.2 Design Philosophy and Concepts
It is recommended that you present your philosophy and concept through graphical
presentation, how the germ of idea started and how it evolves to its final form. This
approach will show the stages of growth of the final design.
Design Goals and Objectives
Design Strategies
3.3 Schemes Development
Site Development Concepts and Schemes
Schemes Development (Plans and Elevations)
Massing of the Building(s) integrated within the site
Utility and Structural Concepts and Systems: Plumbing, mechanical equipments, and
electrical systems, lighting and acoustics concepts and structural components.
Innovations should be introduced in this section.
Details based on the results of the Research Focus and its integration in the design.
3.4 Space Focus: This is your chosen space within the project which you would like to
undertake a detailed analysis and presentation of. The space focus must be relevant and
essential to the main function(s) of the project and it must clearly show how your research
focus can be fully utilized. Example: Project: Condominium Space Focus: Three-Bedroom
unit; Project: General Hospital Space Focus: Pediatrics Ward; Project: Resort Space Focus:
Lodges Unit etc.
Detailed Blow-up Plans
Detailed Sections/Elevations
Detailed Utilities (Plumbing and Electrical)
Spot Details
Structural Bay Section
Detailed Presentation of Research Focus
Finishing Board showing type and color of finishing being adapted for walls, floors and
ceiling.
Probable Cost estimate
3.5 Architectural Drawings
Master Site Development Plan
Scale Model
Floor Plans
Elevations
Sections
Site Utility Layout
Structural Design (One Bay)
3.6 LIST OF REFERENCES OF THE CHAPTER/END NOTES: List of references are
books and other materials you will often use in your research.

CHAPTER 4.0 SYNTHESIS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

BIBLIOGRAPHY: List of references that you used in the preparation of the Thesis Book.

ANNEX 1: PROCEEDINGS OF DELIBERATIONS AND REVISIONS

ATTACHMENTS

4. ASSESSMENTS AND CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS

The Thesis student is the core of the group and the person responsible for completing the requirements of
the thesis. It is the students responsibility to identify and develop the idea basis of the thesis, frame it
conceptually, select the site, formulate the program for the project, and to translate it to a workable plan.
During these various stages of the program, the student must see to it that his/her work has been properly
assessed by the Thesis Adviser. Thesis student must present his/her work on the time and date of
consultation. Each section is composed of 35 students more or less and the only way proper consultation
will be handled is through strict abeyance with the schedule. Time is the essence in the Thesis Course.
Failure to appear on the given schedule means forfeiture of the chance to refine and develop his/her
assigned project and more importantly, the student will receive a failing mark on the specific consultation
performance.
Students who are late on the scheduled assessments i.e. endorsement, deliberations, submittals, will NOT
be entertained unless proper documentation with acceptable cause of delay will be provided by the
student to the Thesis Adviser concerned.

All submissions are assessed based on:
1. Punctual submission of requirements
2. Compliance with required content and format
3. Appropriate presentation in class or one-on-one discussion with the Thesis Adviser

5. TARDINESS AND ABSENCES

The Thesis Course adheres to the Policy on Tardiness and Absences of the FEU Students Handbook and
the applicable Institute policies specifically for Arch 511 and Arch 522. Both subjects are 5-units course
and as such, the students are limited to a number of hours of unexcused absences. Thesis advisers will
provide additional information in the first days of classes.

6. PRE-DELIBERATION/DELIBERATION/POST-DELIBERATIONS ACTIVITIES

The Thesis Adviser will provide each student his/her deliberation schedule one hour before the actual
deliberation time. This is done through drawing lots or by direct instruction from the Adviser. This
procedure will prevent late arrivals of students which will effectively delay the deliberation process. The
student should arrive at the deliberation proper one and half hours before the scheduled time. Other
requirements are printed in the graded sheet. It is advisable for the student to read the instructions
carefully to prevent any cause for delays and miscommunications. Proper decorum shall always be
observed during the deliberation time.

7. JURY MEMBERS AND DELIBERATIONS

Jury members will be chosen from the faculty staff of IARFA. However, faculty members of other
schools and other practitioners will also be invited but this case will be of an exception rather than a rule.
Jury members are not limited to architects only. Structural engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical
engineers and other branches of the industry can be invited to participate in the deliberation on a case to
case basis.

8. SEMESTER RATING

The Thesis student will be graded by the Thesis Adviser according to his/her participation in class,
submittals, consultations, and scheduled assessments The average grade of these items shall comprised
60% of the students grade for the semester. The balance of forty percent (40%) is divided between the
average grades of the jury members and the faculty-consultants assessments. Thirty five percent (35%)
will be brought about by the average grade the student received in the deliberation undertaken during that
specific grading period and five percent (5%) will be provided by the faculty-consultants. There will be
three deliberations per semester, preliminary, mid term and final deliberations. Preliminary and mid term
deliberation will be undertaken by the Thesis Advisers and the concerned Consultants while the final
deliberation will be carried out by the jury members (internal/external). FAILURE OF THE STUDENT
TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FINAL DELIBERATION WITHOUT ANY VALID REASON FOR ARCH
511 AND 522 SHALL BE GIVEN A GRADE OF 5.00 FOR THE SEMESTER. Graded deliberations
shall be executed in lieu of the scheduled class examinations.

9. ATTACHMENTS

The basic approved presentation format of specific pages required in ARCH 511/DESIGN 951 and
ARCH 522/DESIGN 052 defining the specific font type/s and size; the allowable sizes of presentation
materials like tracing papers, boards and scale models. Refer to the attach sample formats.

10. BEST THESIS

For work that is clearly exceptional in both its process and outcomes, the Thesis Advisers may nominate
projects for Best Thesis Awards. The Best Thesis Award is typically awarded to the top five (5) of each
class with high composite ratings in both pre-thesis and final thesis.

The criteria for the Best Thesis Award at the IARFA are as follows:
Process Related
Research: The Students research has developed and deepened our understanding of the
architectural problems.
Method: The procedure used by the Student to carry out the thesis evidence design ability and
critical thinking at such a high level, that they can serve as a model for excellence.

Outcomes Related
Conformation: The Student has found a uniquely fitting way to merge the needs, cultural context
and activities of the users of the building with the forms and spaces created.
Context: The Student has developed meaningful forms and spaces that are imaginative, original,
and successful in the way they fit with the human and physical context of the design.

Policy and Guidance for Choosing the Best Thesis

1. The Thesis Council will form an independent body of at least three (3) Faculty Members of
IARFA to undertake the procedure of proclaiming the best thesis.
2. All the top 5s of each section shall be properly displayed in one common area for viewing
purposes. Each project will be provided with code numbers for identification.
3. Five (5) to seven (7) from the IARFA faculty members will be chosen to act as jurors using the
abovementioned criteria for the award. Top ten (10) will be chosen.
4. Deans of Architecture of other Universities will be invited to view the top 10 to choose the top
three (3) among the ten (10)
5. Awards in the form of cash and certificate will be given to the top ten (10) of the Thesis Class.
6. All evaluation sheets used by the jurors will be sealed and kept by the Institute Coordinator to be
opened only when a written protest has been presented to the Thesis Council within one day after
the proclamation of the Best Thesis award. If after one day after the proclamation passes without
any protest, the sealed enveloped will be properly discarded.
7. Amendments will be incorporated with the approval of the Thesis Council on a case to case basis.


References:
Site Analysis, TVGIncocencio, RSGabitan, PUP CAFA Architecture Thesis Guideline & Outline
Manual, 2001
An Overview of the Research Process, Dr. Divina M. Edralin, De La Salle University-Manila, 2004


Far Eastern University
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

Preliminary Thesis Proposal Title
Research Focus Title

A Preliminary Thesis Proposal Submitted to the
Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement in
ARCH 511: Pre-Thesis Design Problems

Submitted by:
First Name Middle Name Surname

May 22, 2006 (or applicable date)

(Attachment 1a: Sample of Preliminary Thesis Proposal Title Page)



The Formal Thesis Proposal Title
Research Focus Title

A Thesis Proposal Submitted to the
Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement in
ARCH 511: Pre-Thesis Design Problems

Submitted by:
First Name Middle Name Surname

Arch. (NAME of Class Adviser)
Class Adviser, ARCH 511 Section

(applicable date)

(Attachment 1b: Sample of Formal Thesis Proposal Title Page)


APPROVAL SHEET

(space of signature)
Arch. (name of Thesis Council member)
Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] APPROVED WITH COMMENTS
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

Arch. LORELEI DC DE VIANA
Acting Dean, IARFA
Date:
[ ] APPROVED
[ ] DISAPPROVED

(Attachment 2: Sample of Approval Sheet)



Date

Name of Addressee
Position of Addressee
Name of Company/Agency/Firm, etc.
Address

Dear ____________________________

The bearer, (Full name of student) , whose signature appears below is a
bonafide 5
th
year Bachelor of Science in Architecture student of the Far Eastern University
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts and is currently enrolled in the Architectural Design (9:
Pre-Thesis or 10: Thesis) course.

In line with the aforementioned, Mr./Ms. (Surname of student) is in need of pertinent data or
information relating to his/her Thesis Proposal entitled _____________________________
______________________________________. All information or document furnished by
your office would be used strictly for academic purposes.

Any assistance extended in this regard will be highly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Students Full Name and Signature
Student Number

Noted by:

Arch. (FULL NAME and Signature)
Class Adviser

Endorsed by:

Arch. (FULL NAME and Signature)
Program Head, Architecture

Arch. Lorelei DC De Viana
Acting Dean, IARFA

(Attachment 3: Sample letter of introduction)

|a. |a-|e.u |uive.-i|v
lu-|i|u|e l A..|i|e.|u.e au1 |iue A.|-

Date:

CERTIFICATION OF CONSULTANCY SERVICES RENDERED

This is to certify that I am the consultant of the following students for Arch ____ (Pre-
Thesis/Thesis) for ___ semester 200__-200__:

Student Name Students Number Signature
1.________________________ ________________ ____________________
2.________________________ ________________ ____________________
3.________________________ ________________ ____________________
4.________________________ ________________ ____________________
5.________________________ ________________ ____________________
6. _______________________ ________________ ____________________
7. _______________________ ________________ ____________________
8. _______________________ _________________ ____________________

With this Consultancy Service Record, I concur to the policy of the Thesis Council that:
A. I am allowed to assist/mentor a maximum number of eight (8) students only;
B. Each consultancy service will be done in a formal manner with minimum of 30 minutes
per meeting WITHIN THE PREMISES OF IARFA;
C. Each student will have at least six (6) meetings per semester (2 meetings/grading period);
D. I will extend my best effort to assist the student to make good in his/her thesis
deliberation;
E. I am required to meet regularly with the concerned Thesis Adviser to discuss the
development and concerns of the student and attend the regular Thesis Council meetings
if needed;
F. I am to evaluate the development of the student and I am required to submit my
assessment grade every grading period to the adviser;
G. I am required to deliberate students not under my consultancy, the number of which shall
be equal to the number of students under my mentorship without charge. Over and above
this number, I shall be paid the approved deliberation fee.
H. I fully understand that if I deliberated less than the required number, an amount equal to
the difference multiplied by the amount of deliberation fee shall be deducted from my
Consultancy and Deliberation fee; and
I. All pertaining documents will be submitted to the Thesis Institute Coordinator on or
before __________________.
J. Failure to submit duly accomplished complete set of documents (Student-Consultant
Agreement, Certification of Consultancy Rendered and Consultant Record) shall mean
FORFEITURE of all benefits from this program.

_______________________________ _____________________________
Consultant Adviser/s

Endorsed by:

_______________________________
Program Head, Architecture


STUDENT CONSULTANT AGREEMENT

Date:
Architect/Engineer __________________________________
Faculty, IARFA

Sir/Madam,

The undersigned is a student of Arch 511(Pre-Thesis)/522 (Thesis). As a requirement of the
course, I am writing an Architectural Thesis Book with the title of:

___________________________________________________________________

This undertaking requires an in-depth knowledge of the design and facility requirements of the
proposed subject project.

In this regard, I need a consultant to provide technical assistance. With your knowledge and
expertise, I am inviting you to be my consultant. I understand that your assistance will be
LIMITED to the following:

1. Technical and professional advice in the preparation of the thesis book contents;
2. Technical advice on the proposed project which includes site planning requirements,
space requirements and their relationships, equipment listings and their standard layout
and clearances, furniture layout, outline specification, and costing for Architect
Consultants and structural concepts for Engineering Consultants;
3. Technical advice on my chosen space focus and;
4. Assistance in focusing my document towards achieving the set goals and objectives.

I further understand that all information, suggestions and changes recommended by the
consultant shall be duly reported to my Thesis Adviser for comments as soon as practicable and
it is my responsibility to whether or not to implement the same. To make the consultation
effective, I will provide the consultant with all the necessary information to help achieve the
abovementioned forms of assistance.

Enclosed are the documents for the consultation agreement.

Thank you very much.

Very truly yours,

Name of the Student
Student, Arch 511 AR _____

CONFORME:

____________________________
Faculty-Consultant
Date:___________________

Noted:

____________________________
Thesis Adviser

CONSULTANTS RECORD OF SERVICE
FOR (FIRST/SECOND) SEMESTER 200 - 200 -

CONSULTANT__________________________

STUDENT ______________________________

DATE TIME
DURATION
TOPIC DISCUSSED CONSULTANTS
SIGNATURE


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Thesis Manual (as of June 2013) ANL 1/27

THE THESIS COURSES

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