MSc (Eng) Geotechnical Engineering

Year 1

(Award available for year: Master of Science)

Learning outcomes

1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems (Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of Geotechnical Engineering and informed by an awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering) (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M1).

2. Formulate and analyse complex problems to reach substantiated conclusions. (This will involve evaluating available data using first principles of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles (as appropriate), and using engineering judgment to work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed) (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M2).

3. Select and apply appropriate computational and analytical techniques to model complex problems in Geotechnical Engineering, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M3).

4. Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information to solve complex problems relevant to Geotechnical Engineering (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M4).

5. Design solutions for complex problems that evidence some creativity/originality and meet a combination of societal/user/customer/business needs. This will involve consideration of applicable health & safety, diversity, inclusion, cultural, societal, environmental and commercial matters, codes of practice and industry standards as appropriate. (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M5).

6. Apply an integrated (systems) approach to design and the solution of complex problems (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M6).

7. Evaluate the environmental and societal impact of solutions to complex problems (to include the entire life-cycle of a design or process) and to minimise adverse impacts (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M7).

8. Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M11).

9. Use practical laboratory and workshop skills to investigate problems (including those with complex aspects) (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M12).

10. Select and apply appropriate materials, equipment, engineering technologies and processes, recognising their limitations (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M13).

11. Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in context of a complex problem (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M14).

12. Apply knowledge of engineering management principles, commercial context, project management, and relevant legal matters relevant legal matters (including intellectual property rights) as appropriate (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M15).

13. Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team, as appropriate. Evaluate effectiveness of own and team performance (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M16).

14. Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters with technical and non-technical audiences, evaluating the effectiveness of the methods used) (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M17).

15. Place the global challenges of the Climate Emergency, the 17 UNSDGs and cultural change central to their material selection, design and construction thinking (and develop ability to carry out an embodied-carbon check on a design, and then to reduce this carbon footprint while retaining the key elements of the brief). (JBM design/sustainability thread)

Skills Learning Outcomes:

Technical skills (e.g. GIS, FEM)
Decision-making
Communication
Systems thinking
Anticipatory/future thinking
Integrated problem solving
Planning and Organisation/Time management
Group working and collaboration
Strategic practice
Relationship development
Ethical
Information searching

Transferable (key) skills

Masters (Taught), Postgraduate Diploma students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities as defined in the modules specified for the programme:
1. the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity in industry or area of professional practice;
2. evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
3. self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
4. independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
5. critically to engage in the development of professional/disciplinary boundaries and norms;
6. the skills necessary to work as an individual or as a member of a team.
7. Methods of project/problem specification and management;
a. In-depth knowledge of methods for independent study/research;
b. Critical review of the work of colleagues in a professional environment;
8. Methods of independent learning which will allow successful participation in continuing professional development as required for professional accreditation by the Institution of Civil Engineers;
9. The development of strong teamwork skills within a scientific environment.

Assessment

Achievement for the degree of Master (taught programme) will be assessed by a variety of methods in accordance with the learning outcomes of the programme and will involve the achievement of the students in:
1. Evidencing an ability to conduct independent in-depth enquiry within geotechnical engineering;
2. Demonstrating the ability to apply breadth and/or depth of knowledge to geotechnical engineering;
3. Drawing on a range of perspectives on an area of study;
4. Deal with uncertainty
5. Demonstrating the in-depth knowledge of geological principles and techniques relevant to civil engineering;
6. Demonstrating skills competence in areas that cover the broad range of geotechnical engineering as a discipline;
7. A satisfactory demonstration of breadth, as well as depth, of knowledge relevant to the practice of geotechnical engineering;
8. Making reasoned judgements on the basis of incomplete geological and geotechnical data about parameters necessary for design.
9. Ability to work independently, setting appropriate aims/objectives and workplan, in the context of the dissertation project.