MGeotech Programme

Master of Geotechnical Engineering (MGeotech)

The MGeotech programme is course work based which carries 135 credits. A 45 credit project is undertaken during the course of study to bring the programme to 180 credits. 

Aims 

The proposed professional master’s degree program specialising in Geotechnical Engineering is aimed at students who seek careers in fields related to geotechnical engineering but not necessarily research based. It will provide an intensive graduate education in geotechnical engineering for individuals through a combination of appropriate course scheduling and will suitably serve working professionals as it will include work that develops skills related to workplace needs.

Intended Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, the knowledge of the graduates will have deepened in Geotechnical Engineering. They will also be skilled at identifying Geotechnical Engineering Problems and proposing solutions.

Specifically, they would have gained:

• An advanced knowledge and understanding of the principles of geotechnical engineering and of their applications in a civil engineering context.

• An advanced knowledge and understanding of the engineering properties and characteristics of soils.

• An advanced knowledge and understanding of the site investigation process from design, through testing and interpretation, to reporting.

• An advanced knowledge and understanding of the geotechnical design process, and of the design of foundations, slopes and earth retaining structures.

• The ability to identify the geotechnical data relevant to a given engineering scenario, generate such data through the employment of appropriate testing techniques, and interpret these data in an engineering context.

• The ability to select and apply ideas, concepts and data, from both science and engineering, in order to generate creative and innovative designs which provide optimal solutions to geotechnical problems.

• The ability to communicate by means of well prepared, clear and confident presentations and concise and grammatically correct written documents.

• The ability to plan, organise and prioritise work activities in order to meet deadlines.

Degree programme and timescale of study

The degree programme is based on a template of nine (9) taught modules which contributes up to 135 credits with at least three quarters (3/4) of the total credits undertaken from the Geotechnical Engineering field. A candidate for the MGeotech in Geotechnical Engineering is required to complete a suite of courses with up to 135 credits and an individual project of 45 credits totaling to 180 credits, to comply with the prescribed curriculum for conferment of the degree. The student undertakes a project related to Geotechncial Engineering which involves individual study on a specialised topic. A statement of objectives is agreed upon, and the course of study is guided by the supervisor who is a suitable member of academic staff. The project engages the student in about 450 hours of independent study, and a written report is submitted.

The module/credit breakdown and the courses to be undertaken in the MGeotech programme are given in the tables below. 

45

The minimum duration for the programme shall be about two (2) academic years for full time study.