Numerical Methods in Geotechnical Design

Undergraduate | 2026

Course page banner
Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your studies will be on-campus, and may include some online delivery
On campus
area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
ENGI 4003
Course ID icon
Course ID
200660
Campus icon
Campus
Adelaide City Campus
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course owner
Course owner
Adelaide University
Course level icon
Course level
4
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.
No
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
No
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
No
alt
Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

The aim of this course focus on the utilisation of cutting-edge engineering software packages to tackle sophisticated engineering challenges. Topics will encompass solving partial differential equations in solid mechanics and finite difference. The course will mainly emphasise employing numerical and computational methods, including discrete elements, finite difference and finite elements. Students will also explore commercial engineering packages, with a keen focus on establishing accuracy standards. Through this, participants will gain proficiency in applying advanced computational techniques to address complex engineering problems effectively. 

  • Introduction to numerical modelling 
  • Finite element modelling 
  • Discrete element method 

Course learning outcomes

  • Understand the principles of particle morphology, solid mechanics and continuum mechanics
  • Demonstrate proficiency in analytical methods and computational techniques for modelling particle morphology and simulating particle interactions.
  • Demonstrate problem-solving skills by applying analytical and computational approaches to address challenges related to solid mechanics in engineering practice
  • Develop proficiency in discretising complex geotechnical problems solving linear and nonlinear equations in both static and dynamic problems.
  • Develop DEM and FEM simulations using specialised software tools tailored for geotechnical engineering applications and evaluate the simulation results and gain hands-on experience through these exercises.

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A