DAU Architecture Department and Its Educational Philosophy
Dr. Nazife Özay, a faculty member of the Faculty of Architecture at Eastern Mediterranean University (DAU), elaborated on the department’s educational structure and the importance of architectural education. The DAU Architecture Department emphasizes that architects build not just buildings, but living spaces, social relations, and urban cultures.
Dr. Özay stated that architecture is not merely a structural profession, but also a social discipline of thought. She expressed that today’s architects analyze the dynamics of cities, preserve cultural heritage, and design sustainable living spaces. In this context, she noted that the fundamental goal of architectural education goes beyond providing professional knowledge; it aims to encourage critical thinking and creativity.
Foundation Year Education and Design Processes
The starting phase of education for students in the DAU Architecture Department is shaped during the Foundation Year, which is the first year. This process is critical for students to develop their designer identities and gain spatial thinking skills. Throughout this year, students begin to engage with the fundamental concepts of architecture, enhancing their observation, inquiry, and critical thinking abilities.
The education provided during the Foundation Year is supported by courses such as graphic representation, visual communication, architectural theory, and building knowledge. These courses aim to combine theory with practice, offering a holistic learning experience. In later years, more complex studio works build upon these foundations, leading to a thoughtful and inquisitive architectural education.
Given that the ability for students to justify design decisions and defend their ideas is prioritized, jury evaluations and group collaborations are integral to the educational process. Additionally, practical applications such as technical tours, workshops, and international competitions provide students with diverse perspectives related to their profession.
The DAU Architecture Department provides education that meets international standards, enabling students to be competitive on a global scale. Since its inception in 1991, the department has enhanced its prestige in the industry with its strong academic staff and multicultural structure.
The department’s accreditations are indicative of its commitment to educational quality. In 2011, it received MİAK accreditation in Cyprus, and in 2016, it obtained NAAB accreditation from the US, making it one of the leading architecture schools in the region. These accreditations signify compliance with contemporary architectural education standards.
Achievements of Graduates and Future Vision
Graduates of the DAU Architecture Department have the opportunity to build successful careers in international design firms, public institutions, and various other fields. The roles taken by graduates in different countries clearly demonstrate the department’s educational approach succeeds at an international level.
As a profession responsible for carrying cities and living spaces into the future, architecture consistently emphasizes the importance of nurturing thoughtful and questioning individuals. DAU, acting with this awareness, trains architects who think beyond construction; hence, solid structures cannot be built without a captivating thought.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
