The module examines aspects of geotechnical engineering including; site investigations, fill materials and compaction, asset management strategies, overall stability of geotechnical structures, temporary works, and selection of appropriate geotechnical parameters for use in design.

1. Create a specification for, and evaluate the findings of, a site investigation.

2. Construct a ground model and determine suitable design soil parameters based on the analysis and evaluation of site investigation data.

3. Appraise the suitability of materials and follow good construction practice in earthworks, while recognising the physical constraints on site.

4. Identify and propose solutions for potential geotechnical engineering issues associated with infrastructure assets.

Geotechnical and structural engineers approach soil – structure interaction differently. Geotechnical engineers focus on the soil, while structural engineers focus on the structural elements. In reality, it is necessary to create models that take into account the real behaviour of both the soil and the structure. This module examines numerical modelling and soil – structure interaction, ranging from the simple to the complex. At the end of this module geotechnical and structural engineers should have a better understanding of soil – structure interaction and be better able to apply numerical techniques to soil – structure problems.

1. Select an appropriate soil – structure interaction model for a given application

2. Synthesis data from testing and determine appropriate parameters for use in soil – structure interaction models

3. Develop solutions to soil – structure interaction applications

4. Validate solutions obtained from commercially available software packages

5. Conduct risk assessments in soil – structure interaction applications

The module develops the learner's knowledge of several key topics in the field of building structure design and engineering, including the conceptual and preliminary design of buildings, and detailed design methodologies. The application of structural analysis using computer software packages and appropriate hand calculation validation procedures will be incorporated into the design calculations.

1. Analyse and design structural elements and buildings, including consideration of buckling and second-order effects.

2. Analyse and assess the stability of structural buildings and frames, including the effects of structural dynamics.

3. Develop and validate structural models, including the validation of solutions obtained from commercially available software packages

4. Interpret the ill-defined requirements of a client’s proposal, and generate and evaluate structural solutions for the particular ill defined problem

5. Effectively collaborate and communicate with others in the timely development of solutions to building design problems, including reports, analysis & calculations, and drawings as appropriate.

Geotechnical Engineering II focuses on the analysis and design of geotechnical engineering related structures and the preparation of Geotechnical Engineering related design documentation.

1. Develop a geotechnical design report for the analysis and design of Geotechnical Engineering related structures.
2. Analyse and design gravity and cantilever soil retaining systems

3. Evaluate foundation systems, with particular reference to bridge structures

4. Develop solutions for soilstructure interaction problems associated with bridge abutments

5. Evaluate axially loaded piles using insitu testing and by calculation.

The module develops the learner's knowledge of several key topics in the field of bridge design and engineering including the conceptual and preliminary design of bridges, bridge aesthetics, bridge analysis, and detailed design methodologies. The application of structural analysis using computer software packages and appropriate hand calculation validation procedures will be incorporated into the design calculations.

1. Develop appropriate bridge solutions given planning, site, functional and aesthetic constraints.
2. Complete detailed design, analysis and specifications for bridge structures in concrete and/or steel.

3. Evaluate and implement appropriate structural analysis tools for the modelling of bridges.

4. Evaluate and develop appropriate durability and protection details for bridge structures.
5. Effectively collaborate and communicate with others in the timely development of solutions to bridge design problems including reports, analysis & calculations, and drawings.

This module will provide the learner with the necessary research skills to undertake a level 9 research project. The learner will: Study the different paradigms and methodologies of the research study. Study the different methods of data collection and data analysis associated with the chosen approach. Learn how to analyse research publications. Disseminate research in terms of reports and journal publications. Effectively communicate their research outcomes.

1. Critically evaluate existing knowledge and its application to the student’s chosen research area.

2. Develop a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, generally informed by the forefront of research in their chosen area.

3. Analyse paradigms of research enquiry and explicate where chosen paradigms fit within their research area of interest.

4. Expertly identify, discuss and propose a range of data collection and analysis tools and techniques relevant to their study.

5. Demonstrate a critical understanding of appropriate project management skills to ensure successful completion of level 9 research project.

6. Communicate effectively their research outcomes.

In this module the learner will undertake an individual research thesis in a core area of the programme. The learner is required to demonstrate their ability in advanced research, designing and executing experiments/ numerical analysis/ analytical analysis, concept development and reporting. The learner will disseminate the research work and outcomes through an oral presentation, poster presentation, interview and submission of a dissertation.

1. Develop a research methodology and project plan for a research project.
2. Plan and implement self directed learning to further knowledge and understanding of an unfamiliar and/or ill defined engineering problem.
3. Design and implement appropriate mathematical/analytical/experimental/modelling methods and techniques to advance knowledge in a specific engineering area.
4. Interpret, critique and synthesise data with state of the art in a specific engineering area.
5. Synthesise the research work in the form of presentations, poster presentations, abstracts, executive summaries, technical papers and a minor dissertation.
6. Produce a minor dissertation that details and evaluates the work undertaken and justifies the conclusions reached.
7. Identify a potential peer-review conference/journal paper for the research work and how this work may contribute to furthering knowledge in the specific engineering field.