MSc (Eng) Structural Engineering

Year 1

(Award available for year: Master of Science (Eng))

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 Structural Engineering and informed by an awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering and structural materials) (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M1).
2. Formulate and analyse complex Structural Engineering 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 such as finite element modelling methodology to model complex problems in Structural Engineering or optimise solutions to the Structural Engineering problems, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M3).
4. Select and critically evaluate technical literature and other sources of information or research articles to solve complex problems relevant to Structural Engineering (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M4).
5. Design solutions for complex Structural Engineering 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 life-cycle sustainability 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 of stakeholders that can involve or be influenced by the Structural Engineering practice (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M11).
9. Use practical laboratory and advanced structural analysis 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 in terms of effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability for Structural Engineering problems (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M13).
11. Discuss the role of quality management systems and continuous improvement in context of a complex problem such as a realistic structural design and analysis project (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 for completing a Structural Engineering project (AHEP4 Learning Outcome M16).
14. Communicate effectively on complex engineering matters, such as structural designs, research developments and infrastructure management for seismic resistance etc, 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 br

Transferable (key) skills

Skills Learning Outcomes
- Technical skills (e.g. CAD/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 

Apply comprehensive knowledge and understanding of:

- the mathematical principles necessary to underpin their education in structural engineering and to enable them to apply mathematical methods, tools and notations proficiently in the analysis and solution of multi-disciplinary engineering problems;

- properties, behaviour and use of relevant materials;
- management techniques which may be used to achieve structural engineering objectives within that context;
- the role of codes of practice in design; - principles and implementation of advanced design techniques specific to structural engineering;
- mathematical and computer models relevant to structural engineering, and an appreciation of their limitations;
- the role of the professional engineer in society, including health, safety, environmental, sustainability, ethical issues, equality, diversity and inclusion and risk assessment;
- the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles;
- developing technologies related to structural engineering and the ability to develop critiques of them;
- the framework of relevant requirements governing engineering activities, including personnel, health, safety, and risk issues (an awareness of);
- advanced design processes and methodologies and the ability to adapt them in unfamiliar situations.

Intellectual Skills:

- analyse and solve problems;
- think strategically;
- synthesis complex sets of information and work with information that may be uncertain or incomplete;
- understand the changing nature of knowledge and practice in the management of culturally diverse construction environments;
- select and transfer knowledge and methods from other sectors to construction-based organisation.

Practical Skills:
- extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools where appropriate;
- evaluate and integrate information and processes in project work;
- show a capability to act decisively in a coordinated way using theory, better practice and harness this to experience; - use concepts and theories to make judgements in the absence of complete data;
- observe, record and interpret data using appropriate statistical methods and to present results in appropriate forms for the structural engineering industry.

Transferable (key) skills

Masters (taught), Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities, as defined in the modules specified for the programme:

- The skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity in industry or area of professional practice;
- Evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
- Self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- Independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- Critically to engage in the development of professional/disciplinary boundaries and norms.
- The skills necessary to work as an individual or as a member of a team.
- Methods of project/problem specification and management, including: methods for independent study and research, and review of the work of colleagues in a professional environment.
- Methods of independent learning which will allow successful participation in continuing professional development as required for professional accreditation.
- 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 modules specified for the year/programme and will include:
• Evidencing an ability to conduct independent in-depth enquiry within the discipline;
• Demonstrating the ability to apply breadth and/or depth of knowledge to the complex specialist areas of design, construction, and maintenance of structures;
• Drawing on a range of perspectives on an area of study;
• Evaluating and criticising received opinion;
• Making reasoned judgements whilst understanding the limitations on judgements made in the absence of complete data.