Geotechnical Infrastructure Design

Unit code: NEC2007 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEC2006 - Geomechanics and the Environment; or
NEC2202 - Geomechanics
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will explore the principles and practices of geotechnical system design and analysis. Geotechnical engineering forms the backbone of civil infrastructure, ensuring the stability and safety of shallow and deep foundations, and retaining structures. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of soil behaviour and its impact on the design and performance of these systems, developing skills to address complex geotechnical challenges.

This unit covers essential geotechnical engineering concepts such as site investigation, foundation behaviour (bearing capacity and settlement), foundation design on reactive soils, lateral earth pressure theory, earth-retaining structures, and ground improvement methods. You will learn to plan and conduct geotechnical site investigations, interpret the results, and assess risks associated with soil conditions. Hands-on learning will be emphasised, with opportunities to use industry-standard geotechnical software tools for analysis and design.



By the end of the unit, you will have developed skills in designing safe and efficient geotechnical systems while effectively mitigating risks and uncertainties in soil-structure interactions. This knowledge will prepare you for advanced studies and professional roles in geotechnical and civil engineering projects.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Evaluate design requirements for safe, sustainable, and cost-effective geotechnical infrastructure across diverse soil and rock conditions;
  2. Analyse site investigation data and interpret geotechnical findings to inform engineering decisions;
  3. Assess shallow (pad, strip, raft) and deep (pile) foundation design requirements across varying ground profiles for typical structural systems;
  4. Collaborate effectively within a team setting to design retaining walls and related structures using earth pressure theory, considering different soil types and moisture conditions; and
  5. Model basic geotechnical solutions related to dewatering systems, ground improvement techniques, and the use of geosynthetic materials.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 30%
Design of soil-structure systems (Group) (1500 words)
Assessment type: Assignment
|
Grade: 30%
Foundations and site analysis. (Individual) (1500 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
Problem-based geotechnical scenario test (Individual) (90mins)

Project: Each student's individual contributions to the group assessment will be systematically evaluated and assessed, with consideration given to their specific tasks, responsibilities, and active engagement throughout the collaborative process.

Assignment: This secure assessment involves applying analytical and digital skills to practical design tasks. Students will be required to document and explain their processes through progressive milestone checks and questions to verify deep understanding.

Test: This invigilated in-class secure assessment has an unpredictable problem-solving scenario format that tests deep understanding, requires explanation of reasoning and process, and involves applying knowledge to new contexts.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering)
NHEC | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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