Geotechnical Engineering Design

Undergraduate | 2026

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area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
ENGC X300
Course ID icon
Course ID
206513
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
3
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes
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Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

The aim of this course is to master the application and extension of soil mechanics principles to design of common geotechnical structures such as retaining walls, shallow and deep foundation, stable slopes along with mastery of concepts and approaches related to site Investigation, earth pressure calculation and sustainability in construction practices.

  • Subsoil Investigation
  • Earth Pressure And Retaining Walls
  • Slope Instability And Earthen Dam
  • Foundation Systems
  • Sustainability, Waste And Recycling

Course learning outcomes

  • Understand the principles and techniques of site investigation, including soil sampling, drilling, and geophysical surveys, to effectively develop an idealised geotechnical model for design
  • Analyse earth pressures and apply relevant theories to determine lateral forces acting on retaining structures, enabling the design of stable and structurally sound nonembedded and embedded retaining walls
  • Evaluate shallow foundation design considerations, such as soil reactivity and bearing capacity, to design footings that safely distribute structural loads and minimise settlement
  • Explore deep foundation systems, including piles and drilled shafts, and apply design principles to ensure adequate load-bearing capacity and settlement control in diverse soil conditions
  • Identify slope instability mechanisms, assess slope stability using analytical and numerical methods, and implement appropriate mitigation measures to ensure the stability and safety of engineered slopes in various geological environments
  • Sustainability in construction practice and use of recycled materials in geotechnical construction

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A