Geophysical and Geotechnical Investigation and Design

Level(s) of Study: Professional / Short course
Start Date(s): 1 February 2024
Duration: Thursday afternoons (term-time only) typically 2 - 5 pm, 1 February - 21 March and 11 - 25 April 2024
Study Mode(s): Part-time
Campus: City Campus
Entry Requirements:
More information

Introduction:

This course develops your knowledge and skills in relation to site investigation techniques on the shallow ground sub-surface.

It will help you develop an understanding of the different techniques used when producing information during investigations.

The course will provide a sound background to decision-making relating the implementation of geotechnical design.

You’ll learn to analyse and design some typical geotechnical structures, with topics being reviewed within the context of safe and sustainable development.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

understand a range of geophysical techniques that relate to civil engineering applications
identify and apply geophysical investigation methods for different types of work
display an understanding of the accuracies, limitations and other implications of using different methods
demonstrate how theory is used to analyse the behaviour of geotechnical structures
undertake the design of geotechnical structures in accordance with current standards
show insight into the sustainability and Health and Safety issues
use a range of investigation equipment
process different types of investigation data using appropriate methodologies
produce a ground profile with engineering parameters
interpret and communicate your findings.

A CPD certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the course.

Successful completion can also contribute 15 credits towards a postgraduate award.

What you’ll study

This course will include:

Engineering geophysics:

the theory of electro-magnetic wave propagation
ground penetrating radar
electrical methods (resistivity and conductivity)
seismic methods (refraction, reflection and surface wave analysis)
gravity methods
magnetic methods.

Advanced soil mechanics:

critical state theory
stress paths
unsaturated soil mechanics.

Advanced analysis and design:

ground improvement
reinforced soil
dynamic loading (pavements/rail environments)
laterally loaded piles
pile groups
the development of brownfield sites including engineered and non-engineered fill material, and contaminated land implications.

Entry requirements

Level: Professional/postgraduate

Entry Requirements: You should have a minimum of three years’ professional experience and have the support of your employer to integrate study and projects into your day-to-day work.

You will probably be employed on significant infrastructure or building works, with experience of developing and coordinating projects.

If you wish to receive credit, you should also have a 2:2 honours degree in a built environment subject area.

Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Level: Professional/postgraduate

Entry Requirements: You should have a minimum of three years’ professional experience and have the support of your employer to integrate study and projects into your day-to-day work.

You will probably be employed on significant infrastructure or building works, with experience of developing and coordinating projects.

If you wish to receive credit, you should also have a 2:2 honours degree in a built environment subject area.

Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications and/or relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Fees and funding

The fee for this course is £995.

Payment is due before the course starts.

The fee for this course is £995.

Payment is due before the course starts.

How to apply

Please read the guidance notes and complete the application form.

You should then email your form to be considered by the academic team.

Please read our notes on the University's commitment to delivering the educational services advertised.