Masters Degrees (Soil Mechanics)

MSc in Soil Mechanics

MSc in Soil Mechanics & Business Management

MSc in Soil Mechanics & Sustainable Development

MSc in Soil Mechanics & Engineering Seismology

MSc in Soil Mechanics & Environmental Geotechnics

These five MSc courses explore the properties of soils and soft rocks in relation to civil engineering, the theory of geomechanics and practical geotechnical engineering.

All our MSc courses are career-oriented and cover both theoretical background and practical design considerations.

Lectures are given mainly by full-time staff but important contributions are made by visiting professors and guest lecturers who are eminent industrialists.

Many of our students continue their studies to undertake research towards a PhD.

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This research intensive course is tailored for talented students who already have a very strong background in geotechnical and earthquake engineering, providing a unique opportunity to conduct cutting edge research combining analytical with experimental methods in a transnational environment. The research component is emphasized by the requirement to submit not only a thesis but a journal paper as well.

Why study Geotechnical Earthquake and Offshore Engineering at Dundee?

Civil Engineering at Dundee is ranked top in Scotland for research. Students of the highest calibre are therefore attracted to Dundee, being offered a unique opportunity to engage with cutting edge research.

Students studying on our masters programmes benefit from our renowned research expertise and industry experience, and our graduates are highly sought after by employers worldwide.

What's great about Geotechnical Earthquake and Offshore Engineering?

The MSc in Geotechnical Earthquake and Offshore Engineering provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills:
- To design Civil Engineering works to resist the destructive actions applied by earthquakes
- To design offshore foundations and pipelines

Efficient aseismic design requires simultaneous consideration of both geotechnical and structural engineering. The course is unique in that it takes a holistic approach in considering the subject from both perspectives equally, emphasizing soil-structure interaction and providing advanced training for both components.

Laboratory of Soil Mechanics, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA)

Please note that all teaching is carried out in English.

Research will be conducted jointly with the Laboratory of Soil Mechanics of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), introducing an international dimension that combines the core strengths of the two research groups, exploiting the state of the art 150g tonne capacity geotechnical centrifuge of the University of Dundee.

The latter is equipped with a latest-technology centrifuge-mounted earthquake simulator capable of reproducing any target waveform, making the Dundee centrifuge facility only one of 3 in Europe capable of earthquake replication. A specially designed split-box for simulation of seismic faulting and its effects on structures is also available, along with a variety of Strong and Equivalent Shear Beam (ESB) Boxes, and sensors (accelerometers, LVDTs, load cells, pore pressure transducers, etc.)

Who should study this course?

This course is research intensive and tailored to students with a very strong background in geotechnical earthquake engineering.

This course is taught by staff in the School of Engineering, Physics and Mathematics.

The start date is September each year, and the course lasts until the end of October in the following year (14 months in total). Students spend 50% of their time at the University of Dundee and 50% at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA).

How you will be taught

Modules are taught via lectures, seminars, workshops, practical's and a research project.

What you will study

Students spend 50% of their time at the University of Dundee and 50% at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA).

1st term at NTUA: September – December (4 months)

Research – 1st part: numerical and analytical methods.

2nd term at Dundee : January – April (4 months)

Core and Specialist Taught modules

Core Modules

CE52002: Health, Safety & Environmental Management
Specialist Modules

CE50005: Advanced Structural Analysis of Bridges
CE50023: Offshore Geotechnics and Pipelines
CE50024: Geoenvironmental Engineering
CE50025: Soil Dynamics
3rd term at Dundee : May – July (3 months)

Research – 2nd part: experimental methods

4th term at NTUA : August – October (3 months)

Research – 3rd part: Completion of MSc Thesis and Journal paper.

The distribution of allocated time between terms 3 and 4 will be flexible, and you may spend more time in either of the universities, depending on your project.

How you will be assessed

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework and exam. The research project is assessed by dissertation.

Careers

There is a continuing demand for civil engineers particularly in the energy and water sectors and the skills of the civil engineer are highly portable in the multi-disciplinary engineering sectors. The latest Institution of Civil Engineers Salary Survey for the UK (2010) indicates that the average total income of its senior members is nearly £100k, while that of recent graduates is £27.5k.

We are proud of our achievements in graduate employment. The blend of science, technology and management education and training gained in a unique learning environment that is both challenging and friendly, makes our graduates attractive to employers in civil engineering and a wider range of sectors.

Graduates from Dundee have gone on to achieve high level positions in most sectors of the profession. These include consulting engineers and contractors, the offshore industry and research organisations.

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Why take this course?

Engineering geological expertise is critical to all types of civil engineering projects such as tunnels, dams, mines, quarries, offshore platforms and wind farms.

This course provides you with the advanced skills to carry out detailed investigations into surface and subsurface geology, identification of adverse ground conditions and the design of suitable remedial measures of engineering structures.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Be taught by internationally recognised experts with extensive expertise in engineering geology and geotechnics
Gain experience of environmental assessment techniques, plus a range of other skills such as mapping using GIS, GPS and remote sensing technologies
Go on numerous fieldtrips, both locally and overseas, to undergo specialist field training

What opportunities might it lead to?

This course is accredited by the Geological Society of London. It offers advanced professional and scientific training providing an accelerated route for you to attain Chartered Status, such as Chartered Geologist (CGeol) and Chartered Scientist (CSci) on graduation.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Aid organisations
Environmental organisations
Offshore work
Civil sector roles
Mining
Insurance companies

Module Details

You can opt to take this course in full-time or part-time mode.

The course is divided into two parts. The first part comprises of the lecture, workshop, practical and field work elements of the course, followed by a five-month independent research project. The course is a mixture of taught units and research project covering topics including site investigation, soil mechanics and rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering design, contaminated land, slope stability and rock engineering.

Here are the units you will study:

Rock and Soil Mechanics: These topics are integral to the role of an engineering geologist. You will gain an advanced understanding of the geo-mechanical behaviour of rocks and soils and how they behave under different geotechnical design scenarios. You will also develop key skills in the assessment, description and testing of geological materials in order to understand and quantify their behaviour, using current British and Eurocode standards.

Soil and Rock Engineering: This unit will give you an advanced understanding of engineering and design in soils and rock masses, including fundamental design principles associated with common geotechnical solutions encountered on engineering geological and civil engineering projects.

Contaminated Land and Groundwater: These are important considerations in all types of construction and so an understanding of both is essential. You will learn key techniques for the identification and assessment of contaminated land and groundwater resources in an engineering geological context.

Ground Models: You will train in the development of geological ground models and geomorphological terrain models within the content of engineering geological practice, essential parts of any investigation.

Ground Investigation Techniques: You will gain advanced experience of ground investigation using invasive techniques, in-situ tests and geophysical methods – essential to an engineering geologist's skill base.

Landslides and Slope Instability: On this unit you will develop an advanced understanding of landslide systems, types of slides in soils and rocks and methods for identification and numerical analysis.

Field Reconnaissance and Geomorphological Mapping: The techniques covered on this unit are integral to the course and an essential skill for any graduate wishing to work in this area. You will have fieldwork training in techniques such as geomorphological mapping and walk-over surveys combined with interpretation of remote sensing and aerial photography imagery.

Spatial Analysis and Remote Sensing: On this unit you will cover the key tools for terrain evaluation and be trained in the acquisition and interpretation of aerial photography and satellite imagery, and the integration and analysis of spatial datasets using GIS.

Independent Research Project: This give you the opportunity to undertake an original piece of research to academic or industrial standards, typically in collaboration with research staff in the department or external industry partners. In addition to submission of a thesis report, you also present the results of your project at the annual postgraduate conference held at the end of September.

Programme Assessment

The course provides a balanced structure of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. You will learn through hands-on practical sessions designed to give you the skills in laboratory, computer and field techniques. The course also includes extensive field work designed to provide field mapping and data collection skills.

Assessment is varied, aimed at developing skills relevant to a range of working environments. Here’s how we assess your work:

Poster and oral presentations
Project reports
Literature reviews
Lab reports
Essays

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Your programme of study

The programme is delivered on campus full time and online part time to give you flexible study options. If you want to join the growing companies operating in the subsea industry in Aberdeen or internationally or set up your own company this programme will provide you with a high level of technical training

The Master of Science in Subsea Engineering seeks to prepare highly-trained, highly-qualified, business-aware graduates that can make an immediate impact in their chosen career, and who can address the need for key skills in the subsea industry. Subsea Engineering at the University of Aberdeen has a unique relationship with the subsea industry both locally and internationally, and the programme receives contributions from local industrial organisations in terms of relevant and up-to-the minute contributions to teaching, and support in the specification of group and individual projects.

Aberdeen is the heart of the European oil and gas industry, an international hub for companies engaged in Subsea Engineering. A degree from the University of Aberdeen puts you in a unique position to develop business links alongside of learning and developing international skills within the flexible, modular programme.

Courses listed for the Campus programme

Semester 1

Offshore Structures and Subsea Systems

Subsea Control

Subsea Integrity

Subsea Construction, Inspection and Maintenance

Semester 2

Pipelines and Soil Mechanics

Risers Systems and Hydrodynamics

Flow Assurance

Engineering Risk and Reliability Analysis

Semester 3

Subsea Engineering Individual Project

Courses for the Online Programme

Year 1

Offshore Structures and Subsea Systems

Subsea Construction, Inspection and Maintenance

Pipelines and Soil Mechanics

Engineering Risk and Reliability Analytics

Year 2

Subsea Control

Subsea Integrity

Risers Systems and Hydrodynamics

Flow Assurance

Year 3

Subsea Engineering Individual project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/317/subsea-engineering/

Online delivery:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/1082/subsea-engineering/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• Aberdeen is a recognised hub and centre of excellence in Subsea, as Europe's energy capital and 'World Energy City'
• The programme is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (MarEST) and Institution of Mechnical Engineers (IMechE). the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), The
• Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) and Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT)
• We are able to draw upon knowledge and industry experience within the subsea sector on our doorstep to challenge you
• The programme is very employable with graduates moving to CEO level

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full Time
• September start

There is also an online delivery of this programme

• Online
• 5 Months 27, 30 Months
• Part Time
• September and January start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees for campus delivery:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

Find out about online fees:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/1082/subsea-engineering/

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen for Campus Study

Find out more about:

• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:

https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

Online delivery:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/1082/subsea-engineering/

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The Masters in Civil Engineering & Management introduces you to contemporary business and management issues while increasing your depth of knowledge in your chosen civil engineering speciality.

Why this programme

◾Civil engineering at the University of Glasgow is ranked 4th in the UK and 1st in Scotland (Guardian University Guide 2017).
◾With a 93% overall student satisfaction in the National Student Survey 2016, Civil Engineering at Glasgow continues to meet student expectations combining both teaching excellence and a supportive learning environment.
◾The University has a long history of research in Civil Engineering. The UK's first Chair of Civil Engineering was established at the University in 1840 and early occupants such as William J. M. Rankine set a research ethos that has endured.
◾You will be taught jointly by staff from the School of Engineering and the Adam Smith Business School. You will benefit from their combined resources and expertise and from an industry-focused curriculum.
◾If you are a graduate engineer looking to broaden your knowledge of management while also furthering your knowledge of civil engineering, this innovative programme is designed for you.
◾You will gain first-hand experience of managing an engineering project through the integrated systems design project, allowing development of skills in project management, quality management and costing.
◾You will be able to apply management to engineering projects, allowing you to gain an advantage in today’s competitive job market and advance to the most senior positions within an engineering organisation.
◾This programme has a September and January intake.

Programme structure

There are two semesters of taught material and a summer session during which you will work on an individual supervised project and write a dissertation on its outcomes. Students entering the programme in January are restricted to civil engineering (i.e. excluding management) topics only.

Semester 1

You will be based in the Adam Smith Business School, developing knowledge and skills in management principles and techniques. We offer an applied approach, with an emphasis on an informed critical evaluation of information, and the subsequent application of concepts and tools to the core areas of business and management.
◾Contemporary issues in human resource management
◾Managing creativity and innovation
◾Managing innovative change
◾Marketing management
◾Operations management
◾Project management.

Semester 2

You will study engineering courses, which aim to enhance your group working and project management capability at the same time as improving your depth of knowledge in chosen civil engineering subjects.
◾Integrated systems design project.

Optional courses

Select a total of 4 courses from Lists A and B, at least 1 must be from List A:

List A

◾Advanced soil mechanics 5
◾Advanced structural analysis and dynamics 5
◾Computational modelling of non-linear problems 5
◾Introduction to wind engineering
◾Principles of GIS.

List B

◾Geotechnical engineering 3
◾Ground engineering 4
◾Recycling urban land
◾Structural analysis 4
◾Transportation systems engineering 4.

Project or dissertation

You will undertake an individual project or dissertation work in the summer period (May–August). This will give you an opportunity to apply and consolidate the course material and enhance your ability to do independent work, as well as present results in the most appropriate format. Project and dissertation options are closely linked to staff research interests. September entry students have a choice of management dissertation topics in addition to civil engineering projects, and January entry students have a choice of civil engineering projects.

Projects

There are two semesters of taught material and a summer session during which you will work on an individual supervised project and write a dissertation on its outcomes. Students entering the programme in January are restricted to civil engineering (i.e. excluding management) topics only.

Semester 1

You will be based in the Adam Smith Business School, developing knowledge and skills in management principles and techniques. We offer an applied approach, with an emphasis on an informed critical evaluation of information, and the subsequent application of concepts and tools to the core areas of business and management.
◾Contemporary issues in human resource management
◾Managing creativity and innovation
◾Managing innovative change
◾Marketing management
◾Operations management
◾Project management.

Semester 2

You will study engineering courses, which aim to enhance your group working and project management capability at the same time as improving your depth of knowledge in chosen civil engineering subjects.
◾Integrated systems design project.

Optional courses

Select a total of 4 courses from Lists A and B, at least 1 must be from List A:

List A
◾Advanced soil mechanics 5
◾Advanced structural analysis and dynamics 5
◾Computational modelling of non-linear problems 5
◾Introduction to wind engineering
◾Principles of GIS.

List B
◾Geotechnical engineering 3
◾Ground engineering 4
◾Recycling urban land
◾Structural analysis 4
◾Transportation systems engineering 4.

Project or dissertation

You will undertake an individual project or dissertation work in the summer period (May–August). This will give you an opportunity to apply and consolidate the course material and enhance your ability to do independent work, as well as present results in the most appropriate format. Project and dissertation options are closely linked to staff research interests. September entry students have a choice of management dissertation topics in addition to civil engineering projects, and January entry students have a choice of civil engineering projects.

Industry links and employability

◾The programme makes use of the combined resources and complementary expertise of the civil engineering and business school staff to deliver a curriculum which is relevant to the needs of industry.
◾You, as a graduate of this programme, will be capable of applying the extremely important aspect of management to engineering projects allowing you to gain an advantage in today’s competitive job market and advance to the most senior positions within an engineering organisation.
◾The School of Engineering has extensive contacts with industrial partners who contribute to several of their taught courses, through active teaching, curriculum development, and panel discussion. Recent contributions in Civil Engineering include: Arup and Mott MacDonald.
◾During the programme students have an opportunity to develop and practice relevant professional and transferable skills, and to meet and learn from employers about working in the civil engineering industry.

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The only degree programme of its kind in Central Europe: In the English language master's programme Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering at TU Graz, you profit from a combination of two disciplines - geotechnical engineering and hydraulic engineering. You learn in a practical manner, participating in practice sessions in the laboratory and on-site, and taking part in field trips. For example, you pilot hydraulic projects in Austria’s largest water laboratory.

Georg M. Ausweger, master's degree student in Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering:

The tasks in our area are unique - in many different respects. To be able to solve them, you need solid specialist knowledge and the ability to apply an innovative approach. These fundamental aspects are taught well in the degree programme, and can even be applied by students during their internships, made possible by the teachers’ good connections to the industry.

Content

Students acquire a solid knowledge of geology, soil mechanics, foundation engineering, rock mechanics, tunnelling, hydraulics and structural hydraulic engineering.

Core areas

• Students design, assess, monitor and create
• foundations,
• supporting structures,
• natural and artificial scarps and slopes,
• tunnels and underground structures,
• dams and hydro power plants
• They quantify soil, rock and hydraulic qualities.
• They focus on the material behaviour of geomaterials.
• They learn about catastrophe management and how to deal with natural hazards.

Students choose from one of the following specialisations:

• Hydraulic engineering and water management
• Soil mechanics and foundation engineering
• Rock mechanics and tunnelling

For the individual courses, please see the semester plan.

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You can access six study streams on this Masters programme:

• Bridge Engineering
• Construction Management
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Structural Engineering
• Water Engineering and Environmental Engineering
• Infrastructure Engineering and Management

As well as supporting the career development of Civil Engineering graduates, this programme provides the necessary further learning for engineers working in the construction industry who hold related first degrees such as engineering geology or construction management.

It is also designed to update the technical skills of practising engineers engaged in the planning, design, construction and operation of civil-engineering works.

Programme structure

This programme is studied full-time over one academic year and part-time / distance learning for between two to five academic years. It consists of eight taught modules and a dissertation.

This degree is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng(Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree.

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.

Structural Engineering Group Modules

• Steel Building Design
• Space Structures
• Structural Mechanics and Finite Elements
• Subsea Engineering
• Concrete Building Design
• Structural Safety and Reliability
• Earthquake Engineering
• Design of Masonry Structures

Bridge Engineering Group Modules

• Bridge Deck Loading and Analysis
• Prestressed Concrete Bridge Design
• Durability of Bridges and Structures
• Bridge Management
• Steel and Composite Bridge Design
• Long-Span Bridges

Geotechnical Engineering Group Modules

• Advanced Soil Mechanics
• Energy Geotechnics
• Geotechnical Structures
• Soil-Structure Interaction
• Deep Foundations and Earth Retaining Structures

Construction Management Group Modules

• Construction Management and Law
• Construction Organisation
• Project and Risk Management

Infrastructure Engineering Group Modules

• Infrastructure Investment and Financing
• Infrastructure Interdependencies and Resilience
• Infrastructure Asset Management
• Sustainability and Infrastructure

Water and Environmental Engineering Group Modules

• Environmental Health
• Water Treatment Optional
• Wastewater Treatment
• Applied Chemistry and Microbiology
• Pollution Control
• Groundwater Control
• Regulation and Management
• Water Resources

Dissertation

• Dissertation Project

Educational aims of the programme

• The Civil Engineering programme aims to provide graduate engineers with:
• Advanced capabilities and in-depth knowledge in a range of specialised aspects of civil engineering
• It is also designed to update the technical skills of practising engineers engaged in the planning, design, construction and operation of civil engineering works and to contribute to a personal professional development programme
• A working knowledge of some of the UK and European standards and codes of practice associated with the design, analysis and construction of civil engineering structures and the ability to interpret and apply these to both familiar and unfamiliar problems
• The necessary further learning towards fulfilling the educational base for the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer in both a technical or non-technical capacity dependent upon module selection

Programme learning outcomes

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities and other attributes in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding

• The mathematical principles necessary to underpin their education in civil engineering and to enable them to apply mathematical methods, tools and notations proficiently in the analysis and solution of multi-disciplinary open ended engineering problems
• The properties, behaviour and use of relevant materials
• The management techniques which may be used to achieve civil engineering objectives within that context
• Some of the roles of management techniques and codes of practice in design
• The principles and implementation of some advanced design and management techniques specific to civil engineering
• Mathematical and computer models relevant to civil engineering, and an appreciation of their limitations
• The role of the professional engineer in society, including health, safety, environmental, sustainability, ethical issues and risk assessment within civil engineering
• The wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles
• Developing technologies related to civil engineering and the ability to develop an ability to synthesize and critically appraise some of them
• The framework of relevant requirements governing engineering activities, including personnel, health, safety, and risk issues (an awareness of)
• The advanced design processes and methodologies and the ability to adapt them in open ended situations.

Intellectual / cognitive skills

• Analyse and solve problems
• Think strategically
• Synthesis of complex sets of information
• Understand the changing nature of knowledge and practice in the management of culturally diverse construction environments
• Select and transfer knowledge and methods from other sectors to construction-based organisation
• Produce sound designs to meet specified requirements such as Eurocodes, deploying commercial software packages as appropriate
• Dynthesis and critical appraisal of the thoughts of others

Professional practical skills

• Awareness of professional and ethical conduct
• Extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools where appropriate
• Evaluate and integrate information and processes in project work
• Present information orally to others
• Show a capability to act decisively in a coordinated way using theory, better practice and harness this to experience
• Use concepts and theories to make engineering judgments in the absence of complete data
• Observe, record and interpret data using appropriate statistical methods and to present results in appropriate forms for the civil engineering industry

Key / transferable skills

• Communicate engineering design, concepts, analysis and data in a clear and effective manner 
• Collect and analyse research data 
• Time and resource management planning

Global opportunities

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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The Advanced Geotechnical Engineering MSc will nurture and develop your understanding of the principles and theories behind ground engineering.

Topics include deep foundations in urban areas, tunnelling, foundations for energy infrastructure, deep water energy resources exploration and field monitoring.

During your studies you will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and practical understanding of scientific methodology you have acquired on a research project under the guidance and advice of an experienced supervisor.

This will help you develop the skills to acquire, analyse, and critically evaluate data, and then draw valid, defendable conclusions that can withstand professional scrutiny.

Graduates are highly employable, and may progress to relevant specialist PhD or EngD research programmes in the field.

Programme structure

This programme is studied over one academic year (full-time) and between two and five academic years (part-time or distance learning). It consists of eight taught modules and a dissertation.

On successful completion of this MSc programme students will be deemed to have completed the further learning necessary to combine with a suitable BEng (Hons) degree fulfilling the academic base for the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer.

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.

Geotechnical Engineering Group Modules

• Advanced Soil Mechanics
• Energy Geotechnics
• Geotechnical Structures
• Deep Foundations and Earth Retaining Structures
• Soil-Structure Interaction

Selected Structural Engineering Group Modules

• Subsea Engineering
• Structural Safety and Reliability
• Earthquake Engineering

Selected Construction Management Group Modules

• Construction Management and Law
• Construction Organisation
• Project and Risk Management

Selected Infrastructure Engineering Group Modules

• Infrastructure Systems Interdependencies and Resilience
• Infrastructure Investment and Financing
• Infrastructure Asset Management
• Sustainability and Infrastructure

Selected Water and Environmental Engineering Group Modules

• Groundwater Control
• Water Resources Management and Hydraulic Modelling
• Dissertation project

Students must choose eight modules from those listed above. For the main and subsidiary awards there are restrictions on the choice of modules within each module group. These are outlined in the table above.

Educational aims of the programme

The programme aims to provide graduates with:

• A comprehensive understanding of some of the challenges faced during the analysis, design and construction of foundation and geotechnical structures
• The ability to select and apply most appropriate analysis methodology for problems in ground engineering including advanced and new methods
• The ability to design foundations in a variety of ground conditions 
• A working knowledge of the key UK, European and some International standards and codes of practice associated with the analysis and design of foundations and the ability to interpret and apply these to both familiar and unfamiliar problems
• The necessary technical further learning towards fulfilling the educational base for the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer

Global opportunities

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

Learn more about opportunities that might be available for this particular programme by using our student exchanges search tool.

Academic support, facilities and equipment

Modules are taught by academic members in the geotechnical area, and some lectures for the Advanced Geotechnical Engineering MSc will be delivered by visiting academics and practicing engineers from industry.

You will also be allocated a personal tutor to guide you during your time with us at the University. You can expect a varied, stimulating and rewarding time here and will receive all the support you need to progress your learning. 

In addition to the University Library and Learning Centre’s extensive resources, our excellent testing facilities can support experimentally based MSc dissertation projects. 

Prizes

VJ Tech Prize for Best MSc Student in Advanced Geotechnical Engineering

A prize of £1,000, sponsored by VJ Tech, one of the world’s top geotechnical engineering manufacturers specialising in advanced soil testing equipment for labs.

The prize will be awarded to the best performing student(s) on the MSc Advanced Geotechnical Engineering based on module results and overall performance during the programme.

The £1,000 may be awarded to an individual student or split between two students displaying the best performance in their MSc programme.

Keller Prize for Best MSc Project in Advanced Geotechnical Engineering

A prize of £500 sponsored by Keller Group plc, the world’s largest independent ground engineering contractor.

The prize will be awarded to the student(s) with the best MSc Dissertation completed as part of the MSc Advanced Geotechnical Engineering, as defined by the course leader according to the module results and potential impact of the output of the individual project.

The £500 may be awarded to an individual student or split between a number of students displaying the best performance in their MSc Dissertations.

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Why take this course?

This course focuses on the physical processes that generate natural hazards through an advanced understanding of geological and environmental processes.

You will be fully trained by internationally recognised experts in hazard identification, terrain evaluation techniques as well as hazard modelling and risk assessment techniques. Providing you with the essential skills to monitor, warn and help control the consequences of natural hazards.

What opportunities might it lead to?

This course is accredited by the Geological Society of London. It offers advanced professional and scientific training providing an accelerated route for you to attain Chartered Status, such as Chartered Geologist (CGeol) and Chartered Scientist (CSci) on graduation.

Here are some routes our graduates have pursued:

Aid organisations
Environmental organisations
Offshore work
Civil sector roles
Mining
Insurance companies

Module Details

You can opt to take this course in full-time or part-time mode.

The course is divided into two parts. The first part comprises the lecture, workshop, practical and field work elements of the course, followed by a five-month independent research project. The course is a mixture of taught units and research project covering topics including site investigation, hazard modelling and mapping, soil mechanics and rock mechanics, contaminated land, flooding and slope stability.

Here are the units you will study:

Natural Hazard Processes: The topic of this unit forms the backbone of the course and give you an advanced knowledge of a broad range of geological and environmental hazards, including floods, landslides, collapsible ground, volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, hydro-meteorological and anthropogenic hazards. External speakers are used to provide insights and expertise from an industry, regulatory and research perspective.

Numerical Hazard Modelling and Simulation: This forms an important part of the course, whereby you are trained in the application of computer models to the simulation of a range of geological and environmental hazards. You will develop skills in computer programming languages and use them to develop numerical models that are then used to simulate different natural hazard scenarios.

Catastrophe Modelling: On this unit you will cover the application of natural hazard modelling to better understand the insurance sector exposure to a range of geological and environmental hazards. It includes external speakers and sessions on the application of models for this type of catastrophe modelling.

Volcanology and Seismology: You will gain an in-depth knowledge of the nature of volcanism and associated hazards and seismology, associated seismo-tectonics and earthquake hazards. This unit is underpinned by a residential field course in the Mediterranean region that examines the field expression of volcanic, seismic and other natural hazards.

Flooding and Hydrological Hazards: These are a significant global problem that affect urban environments, one that is likely to increase with climate change. This unit will give you an in-depth background to these hazards and opportunities to simulate flooding in order to model the flood hazard and calculate the risk.

Hazard and Risk Assessment: This unit gives you the chance to study the techniques that are employed once a hazard has been identified and its likely impact needs to be measured. You will have advanced training in the application of qualitative and quantitative approaches to hazard and risk assessment and their use in the study of different natural hazards.

Field Reconnaissance and Geomorphological Mapping: These techniques are integral to the course and an essential skill for any graduate wishing to work in this area of natural hazard assessment. On this unit you will have fieldwork training in hazard recognition using techniques such as geomorphological mapping and walk-over surveys, combined with interpretation of remote sensing and aerial photography imagery.

Spatial Analysis and Remote Sensing: You will learn how to acquire and interpret aerial photography and satellite imagery, and the integration and analysis of spatial datasets using GIS – all key tools for hazard specialists.

Geo-mechanical Behaviour of Earth Materials: You will train in geotechnical testing and description of soils and rocks to the British and international standards used by industry.

Landslides and Slope Instability: This unit will give you an advanced understanding of landslide systems, types of slides in soils and rocks and methods for identification and numerical analysis.

Impacts and Remediation of Natural Hazards: You will cover a growing area of study, including the impact of hazardous events on society and the environment, and potential mitigation and remediation methods that can be employed.

Independent Research Project: This provides you with an opportunity to undertake an original piece of research to academic or industrial standards, typically in collaboration with research staff in the department or external industry partners. In addition to submission of a thesis report, you also present the results of your project at the annual postgraduate conference held at the end of September.

Programme Assessment

The course provides a balanced structure of lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops. You will learn through hands-on practical sessions designed to give you the skills in laboratory, computer and field techniques. The course also includes extensive field work designed to provide field mapping and data collection skills.

Assessment is varied, aimed at developing skills relevant to a range of working environments. Here’s how we assess your work:

Poster and oral presentations
Project reports
Literature reviews
Lab reports
Essays

Student Destinations

This course provides vocational skills designed to enable you to enter this specialist environmental field. These skills include field mapping, report writing, meeting deadlines, team working, presentation skills, advanced data modelling and communication.

You will be fully equipped to gain employment in the insurance industry, government agencies and specialist geoscience companies, all of which are tasked with identifying and dealing with natural hazards. Previous destinations of our graduates have included major re-insurance companies, geological and geotechnical consultancies, local government and government agencies.

It also has strong research and analytical components, ideal if you wish to pursue further research to PhD level.

We aim to provide you with as much support as possible in finding employment through close industrial contacts, careers events, recruitment fairs and individual advice.

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Graduate students will find the programme of substantial use in developing their knowledge and skills base for bridge analysis, design and management.

The programme also offers the opportunity for practising bridge engineers to update their knowledge of current design and assessment codes and guidelines, become familiar with developments in new techniques for the design, construction and management of bridges.

The Bridge Engineering programme encompasses a wide range of modules addressing the whole life-analysis of bridge structures from design to end-of-life.

Optional modules from some of our other study streams are also offered, covering structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, water engineering, construction management, and infrastructure engineering and management.

Graduates are highly employable and may progress to relevant specialist PhD or EngD research programmes in the field.

Programme structure

This programme is studied over either one year (full-time) or between two and five years (part-time or distance learning). It consists of eight taught modules and a dissertation project.

This degree is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng(Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree.

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.

Bridge Engineering Group Modules

• Bridge Deck Loading and Analysis
• Prestressed Concrete Bridge Design
• Durability of Bridges and Structures
• Steel and Composite Bridge Design
• Long-Span Bridges

Structural Engineering Group Modules

• Steel Building Design
• Space Structures 
• Structural Mechanics and Finite Elements
• Subsea Engineering
• Concrete Building Design
• Structural Safety and Reliability
• Earthquake Engineering
• Design of Masonry Structures

Geotechnical Engineering Group Modules

• Advanced Soil Mechanics
• Energy Geotechnics
• Geotechnical Structures
• Soil-Structure Interaction
• Foundation Engineering

Construction Management Group Modules

• Construction Management and Law
• Construction Organisation
• Project and Risk Management

Infrastructure Engineering and Management Group Modules

• Infrastructure Investment and Financing
• Infrastructure Interdependencies and Resilience
• Infrastructure Asset Management
• Sustainability and Infrastructure

Water and Environmental Engineering Group Modules

• Environmental Health
• Water Treatment
• Wastewater Treatment
• Applied Chemistry and Microbiology
• Pollution Control
• Groundwater Control
• Regulation and Management
• Water Resources Management and Hydraulic Modelling
• Water Policy and Management

Dissertation

• Dissertation Project

Educational aims of the programme

The programme aims to provide graduates with:

• A comprehensive understanding of engineering mechanics for bridge analysis
• The ability to select and apply the most appropriate analysis methodology for problems in bridge engineering including advanced and new methods
• The ability to design bridge structures in a variety of construction materials
• A working knowledge of the key UK and European standards and codes of practice associated with the design, analysis and construction of bridge structures and the ability to interpret and apply these to both familiar and unfamiliar problems
• The necessary technical further learning towards fulfilling the educational base for the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer

Programme learning outcomes

The programme provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, skills, qualities and other attributes in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding

• A knowledge and understanding of the key UK and European standards and codes of practice relating to bridge engineering
• The ability to interpret and apply the appropriate UK and European standards and codes of practiceto bridge design for both familiar and unfamiliar situations
• A knowledge and understanding of the construction of different types of bridge structures using different types of materials (e.g. concrete and steel)
• A knowledge and understanding of the common and less common materials used in bridge engineering
• A comprehensive understanding of the principles of engineering mechanics underpinning bridge engineering
• The ability to critically evaluate bridge engineering concepts
• The ability to apply the appropriate analysis methodologies to common bridge engineering problems as well as unfamiliar problems
• The ability to understand the limitations of bridge analysis methods
• A knowledge and understanding to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete
• A Knowledge and understanding of sustainable development related to bridges
• The awareness of the commercial, social and environmental impacts associated with bridges
• An awareness and ability to make general evaluations of risk associated with the design and construction of bridge structures including health and safety, environmental and commercial risk
• A critical awareness of new developments in the field of bridge engineering

Intellectual / cognitive skills

• The ability to tackle problems familiar or otherwise which have uncertain or incomplete data (A,B)
• The ability to generate innovative bridge designs (B)
• The ability to use theory or experimental research to improve design and/or analysis
• The ability to apply fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies
• Synthesis and critical appraisal of the thoughts of others;

Professional practical skills

• The awareness of professional and ethical conduct
• A Knowledge and understanding of bridge engineering in a commercial/business context
• Ability to use computer software to assist towards bridge analysis
• Ability to produce a high quality report
• Ability of carry out technical oral presentations

Key / transferable skills

• Communicate engineering design, concepts, analysis and data in a clear and effective manner
• Collect and analyse research data
• Time and resource management planning

Global opportunities

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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Our Structural Engineering postgraduate programme is delivered by the Faculty’s own staff, together with practising engineers from consultancies and local authorities.

For practising engineers engaged in the planning, design and construction of structural engineering works, this programme provides an opportunity to update their knowledge of current design practice and to become familiar with developments in codes and methods of analysis.

You will be able to choose from a rich and varied selection of specialist structural engineering subjects. The programme is offered in the standard full-time mode, in addition to part-time and distance learning options.

Graduates from the programme are highly employable and may progress to relevant specialist PhD or EngD research programmes in the field.

Programme structure

This programme is studied full-time over one academic year and part-time or distance learning over two to five academic years. It consists of eight taught modules and a dissertation project.

This degree is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng (Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree.

Example module listing

The following modules are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that not all modules described are compulsory and may be subject to teaching availability and/or student demand.

Structural Engineering Group Modules

• Steel Building Design
• Spatial Structures
• Structural Mechanics and Finite Elements
• Subsea Engineering
• Concrete Building Design 
• Structural Safety and Reliability
• Earthquake Engineering
• Design of Masonry Structures

Bridge Engineering Group Modules

• Bridge Deck Loading and Analysis
• Prestressed Concrete Bridge Design
• Durability of Bridges and Structures
• Bridge Management
• Steel and Composite Bridge Design
• Long-Span Bridges

Geotechnical Engineering Group Modules

• Advanced Soil Mechanics
• Energy Geotechnics
• Geotechnical Structures
• Soil-Structure Interaction
• Deep Foundations and Earth Retaining Structures

Construction Management Group Modules

• Construction Management and Law
• Construction Organisation
• Project and Risk Management

Infrastructure Engineering Group Modules

• Infrastructure Investment and Financing
• Infrastructure Interdependencies and Resilience
• Infrastructure Asset Management
• Sustainability and Infrastructure

Water and Environmental Engineering Group Modules

• Environmental Health
• Water Treatment
• Wastewater Treatment
• Applied Chemistry and Microbiology
• Pollution Control
• Groundwater Control
• Regulation and Management
• Water Resources

Dissertation

• Dissertation Project

Modes of study

Apart from the usual full-time mode, there are also part-time options. The majority of Bridge, Geotechnical and Structural Engineering modules can be studied by distance learning through the use of an interactive web-based e-learning platform (SurreyLearn).

Distance learning

This programme can be studied via distance learning, which allows a high level of flexibility and enables you to study alongside other commitments you may have. Get further information about the details of our distance learning programme.

Academic support, facilities and equipment

As part of your learning experience, you will have at your disposal a wide range of relevant software, including ANSYS, ABAQUS, DIANA, SAP 2000, Integer SuperSTRESS, LUSAS, CRISP, MATLAB, PertMaster DRACULA and VISSIM.

Educational aims of the programme

The programme aims to provide graduates with:

• A comprehensive understanding of engineering mechanics for structural analysis
• The ability to select and apply the most appropriate analysis methodology for problems in structural engineering including advanced and new methods
• The ability to design structures in a variety of construction materials
• A working knowledge of the key UK and European standards and codes of practice associated with the design, analysis and construction of civil engineering structures and the ability to interpret and apply these to both familiar and unfamiliar problems
• The necessary technical further learning towards fulfilling the educational base for the professional qualification of Chartered Engineer.

Global opportunities

We often give our students the opportunity to acquire international experience during their degrees by taking advantage of our exchange agreements with overseas universities.

In addition to the hugely enjoyable and satisfying experience, time spent abroad adds a distinctive element to your CV.

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Why this course?

Closely aligned with industry’s demands, this course meets the needs of:

- urban regeneration

- environmental protection

- infrastructure investment portfolios in Scotland and worldwide

A distinctive feature of this course is its highly topical nature. Glasgow has been undergoing extensive urban regeneration. This included building on land that's been contaminated in the past. You’ll have challenging 'real world' issues to study close to the University.

This MSc provides the knowledge and skills to equip you for a career in either environmental engineering or science.

See the website https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduatetaught/environmentalengineering/

You’ll study

You'll follow a curriculum of five core classes and a wide range of optional classes. Each class is taught for two to three hours per week over eight to 12 weeks.

Following successful completion of the taught component, you’ll undertake a dissertation from June to August. In addition to the dissertation topics proposed by course leaders and industrial partners, you may propose topics that can be of relevance to your employer.

For part-time study the modules can be taken over two years (attending classes typically one day per week) with the dissertation completed in Year 2 or 3.

Work Placement

As part of the class Independent Study in Collaboration with Industry you can apply to work with industry projects.

Attendance

One year full-time study involves attendance at classes over two terms, plus a dissertation during the third term.

Part-time (open to UK/EU students only) involves class attendance in Years 1 & 2 and a dissertation in Year 2.

You can also study this course part-time through online distance learning, over 36 months, offering a flexible learning mode of study.

Facilities

Our laboratory facilities are well-equipped for a wide range of environmental measurements. High-technological instrumentation and space are available to investigate:

- environmental microbiology and molecular biology

- environmental and analytical chemistry

- air pollution monitoring

- soil mechanics and quality

- ecotoxicology

Accreditation

This degree is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired a partial CEng accredited undergraduate first degree.

Open Access

Home students can also choose to study through Open Access. This is initially a non-graduating route. You register for one module at a time and have the option to build up credits eventually leading to a Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma or MSc. You can take up to five years to achieve the qualification.

This option is popular with students in employment, who may wish to undertake modules for Continuing Professional Development purposes.

Home students who do not meet the normal MSc entry requirements for this programme are welcome to apply through the Open Access route instead.

Pre-Masters preparation course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course for international students (non EU/UK) who do not meet the entry requirements for a Masters degree at University of Strathclyde. The Pre-Masters programme provides progression to a number of degree options.

To find out more about the courses and opportunities on offer visit isc.strath.ac.uk or call today on +44 (0) 1273 339333 and discuss your education future. You can also complete the online application form. To ask a question please fill in the enquiry form and talk to one of our multi-lingual Student Enrolment Advisers today.

Careers

Graduates of the MSc are widely scattered internationally in environmentally related jobs – including a large number of environmental and engineering consultancies, industry, local government and national and international regulatory agencies.

The career prospects of graduates are excellent due to the significant skills shortages in the environmental engineering field both in the UK and overseas.

Where are they now?

Many of our graduates are in work or further study.*

Job titles include:

- Entry-level Civil Engineer in Landfill Division

- Environmental Analyst

- Environmental Health and Safety Analyst

- Forestry Civil Engineer

- Graduate Engineer

Employers include:

- Adrian Laycook Ltd

- Cairns Intersphere Consulting

- Crossfield Consulting

- Forestry Commission Scotland

- Royal Dutch Shell

- Scott Partnership Engineering

- Scottish Water

*Based on the results of the national Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey.

Find information on Scholarships here http://www.strath.ac.uk/search/scholarships/index.jsp

Distance Learning

This MSc programme is also available via Distance Learning mode, which is based on three years part-time study of 60 credits per year.

This allow you to complete an MSc via online study at a time that suits you, without attending at our Glasgow campus. This means you can study while balancing your existing work and family commitments. This option is suitable for students located anywhere in the world.

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The MSc in Geotechnical Engineering is part of the Division of Civil Engineering's extensive programme of postgraduate studies and research. The course builds on the Division's renowned research expertise and industrial experience in current aspects of geotechnical engineering.

Why study Geotechnical Engineering at Dundee?

Key reasons include:
Better preparation for successful careers in industry, commerce or academia
Development of skills, knowledge and understanding in a specialist field
Participation in the research activities of a world-class department

A wide range of research projects are available in any of the following areas: earthquake engineering (foundations during earthquakes, liquefaction, faulting), offshore engineering (foundations, anchors, pipelines and offshore processes), foundation engineering and ground improvement. Some of these projects will be linked to industry

Development of transferable skills in research methods, communication and management of large and small scale projects

Part-time students have the option of relating their research project directly to ongoing work within their employment

Professional Accreditation: ICE/IStructE

This degree is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng(Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree. Visit http://www.jbm.org.uk for further information.

What's great about Geotechnical Engineering at Dundee?

Civil Engineering at Dundee is ranked top in Scotland for research. You will have the opportunity to engage with leading edge research at Dundee, meaning we attract students of the highest calibre and our graduates are highly sought after by employers worldwide. Students studying on our masters programmes benefit from our renowned research expertise and industry experience.

The Geotechnical Engineering research sub-group was established in 1997 and it has grown significantly since that time. In addition to its undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and research activities, the group offers services to industry across a broad range of geotechnical engineering. The group has hosted a number of major conferences and symposia in Dundee.

Who should study this course?

It is designed both for people pursuing a higher degree soon or immediately after obtaining their first degree, and for those with considerable work experience.

"I love how specialised [this course] is, as very few universities offer such speciality in Earthquake and Offshore Engineering. The course taught me how to solve real-life challenging problems, not to mention the strong industry linkage with my future employer - Subsea 7."
Vithiea Pang, MSc student

The start date is September each year, and lasts for 12 months.

How you will be taught

Modules start at the beginning of the academic session in September and are taught by lectures and tutorials.

What you will study

There are three main elements to the course programme:

Core Modules
These provide skills generic to engineering and research. The two modules are:

Research Methods and Diploma Project
Health, Safety & Environmental Engineering
Specialist Modules
The specialist modules provide in-depth and advanced knowledge, and build upon our expertise. These cover the following topics:

Offshore Geotechnical Engineering
Advanced Soil Mechanics and Geo-Environmental Engineering
Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering
Advanced Structural Analysis
Research Project
The research project gives you the opportunity to benefit from, and contribute to our research. At the end of the project students submit a dissertation based on their research. Students select their projects from a list offered by the academic staff or may suggest their own topic. Many of these projects are collaborative with industry, particularly those in offshore engineering (for Oil and Gas, Marine Renewables and Aquaculture)

How you will be assessed

The course is assessed by coursework and examination.

Students taking the Postgraduate Diploma carry out a shorter research project and complete an extended report.

Careers

There is a continuing demand for civil engineers particularly in the energy and water sectors and the skills of the civil engineer are highly portable in the multi-disciplinary engineering sectors. The latest Institution of Civil Engineers Salary Survey for the UK (2010) indicates that the average total income of its senior members is nearly £100k, while that of recent graduates is £27.5k.

We are proud of our achievements in graduate employment. The blend of science, technology and management education and training gained in a unique learning environment that is both challenging and friendly, makes our graduates attractive to employers in civil engineering and a wider range of sectors.

Graduates from Dundee have gone on to achieve high level positions in most sectors of the profession. These include consulting engineers and contractors, the offshore industry and research organisations.

Funded places

Due to an initiative from the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) designed to support key sectors in the Scottish economy, there are 7 fully-funded places available to eligible students starting this course in 2013/14. This covers all tuition fees associated with the MSc programme and can be held by students classified as Scottish or EU for fee purposes only. Please indicate your interest in being considered for a funded place when you apply through UKPASS.

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The MSc in Civil Engineering builds on our renowned research expertise and industrial experience in current aspects of Civil Engineering. It is designed both for people pursuing a higher degree soon or immediately after obtaining their first degree, and for those with considerable work experience.

Why study Civil Engineering at Dundee?

Dundee is a pre-eminent centre for Civil Engineering with internationally-renowned research groups in concrete technology, fluid mechanics, geotechnical engineering, lightweight and deployable structures, and construction management.

Professional Accreditation: ICE/IStructE
This degree is accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng(Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree. Visit the Joint Board of Moderators homepage for further information.

What's so good about Civil Engineering at Dundee?

All our MSc programmes are accredited as meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng) for candidates who have already acquired an Accredited CEng (Partial) BEng(Hons) or an Accredited IEng (Full) BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree.

Civil Engineering at Dundee is ranked top in Scotland for research. You will have the opportunity to engage with leading edge research at Dundee, meaning we attract students of the highest calibre and our graduates are highly sought after by employers worldwide. Students studying on our masters programmes benefit from our renowned research expertise and industry experience.

Who should study this course?

This course is designed both for people pursuing a higher degree soon or immediately after obtaining their first degree, and for those with considerable work experience.

The start date is September each year, and lasts for 12 months.

How you will be taught

Modules are taught via lectures and tutorials.

What you will study

The programme lasts a full year and contains three main elements: Core Modules (22%)These provide skills generic to engineering and research:

Research Methods and Diploma Project
Health, Safety & Environmental Engineering
Specialist Modules (45%) These provide in-depth and advanced knowledge, and build upon our recognised expertise in Civil Engineering. Students take any four specialist modules that are available that year, subject to approval of the programme director and timetabling constraints. Examples of current modules include:

Advanced Structural Analysis
Earthquake Engineering & Concrete Assessment
Innovative Structures
Design for Durability Assessment and Repair
Construction Systems I and II
Sustainable Use and Environmental Impact Assessment
Offshore Geotechnical Engineering
Advanced Soil Mechanics and Geo-Environmental Engineering
Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering
Project and Enterprise Management
Research Project (33%)

This gives you the opportunity to benefit from, and contribute to our research. At the end of the project students submit a dissertation based on their research.

How you will be assessed

The course is assessed by coursework, examination and dissertation.

Careers

There is a continuing demand for civil engineers particularly in the energy and water sectors and the skills of the civil engineer are highly portable in the multi-disciplinary engineering sectors. The latest Institution of Civil Engineers Salary Survey for the UK (2010) indicates that the average total income of its senior members is nearly £100k, while that of recent graduates is £27.5k.

We are proud of our achievements in graduate employment. The blend of science, technology and management education and training gained in a unique learning environment that is both challenging and friendly, makes our graduates attractive to employers in civil engineering and a wider range of sectors.

Graduates from Dundee have gone on to achieve high level positions in most sectors of the profession. These include consulting engineers and contractors, the offshore industry and research organisations.

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This MSc aims to equip students with the skills of analysis and design necessary for employment as professional civil engineers, and give them a solid academic background for becoming chartered engineers. The programme combines traditional lectures with group projects and an individual research project in the student’s chosen specialist field. The Civil Engineering MSc at UCL now offers five additional routes.

Degree information

Students develop advanced knowledge of civil engineering and associated engineering and scientific disciplines (structure dynamics, sustainable building design, transport, fluids, geotechnics, water and drainage, environmental and coastal engineering, planning and construction). They gain awareness of the context in which engineering operates, in terms of design, construction and the environment, alongside transferable skills, which leads to careers in industry and research.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits), and a research project (60 credits).

Core modules
-Advanced Soil Mechanics
-Advanced Structures
-Roads and Underground Infrastructure
-Project Management (Professional Development Module)

Optional modules - students choose four from the following:
-Anatomy of a Railway
-Applied Building Information Modelling
-Building Engineering Physics
-Coastal Engineering
-Data Analysis
-Engineering and International Development
-Environmental Modelling
-Environmental Systems
-Finite Element Modelling and Numerical Methods
-GIS Principles and Technology
-Introduction to Seismic Design of Structures
-Natural and Environmental Disasters
-Principles and Practices of Surveying
-Roads and Underground Infrastructure
-Systems, Society and Sustainability
-Structural Dynamics
-Urban Flooding and Drainage

Please note: combinations of different modules will be limited and determined by timetable constraints.

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project, which culminates in a dissertation of approximately 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through lectures, tutorials, seminars, laboratory classes and field trips. The design project includes collective and individual studio work, while the research project includes laboratory, computational or fieldwork depending on the nature of the project. Assessment is through examinations, coursework, project reports and the research project.

Careers

There are excellent employment prospects for our graduates. Civil Engineering graduates are readily employed by consultancies, construction companies and government departments.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL Civil, Environmental & Geomatic Engineering is an energetic and exciting multidisciplinary department with a tradition of excellence in teaching and research, situated within the heart of London.

This MSc reflects the broad range of expertise available within the department and its strong links with the engineering industry and places emphasis on developing skills within a teamwork environment. The programme provides a clear route to a professional career in civil engineering.

In addition, students wishing to combine the general MSc in Civil Engineering can now apply to one of five specialist pathways in related disciplines (Seismic Design, Environmental Systems, GIS, Surveying and Integrated Design).

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