Integrated Design Project 5

Unit code: NEC4001 | Study level: Undergraduate

Credit points

(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

Footscray Park

Prerequisites

NEC2003 - Structural Analysis and Design

NEC3004 - Integrated Design Project 3

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)

Overview

In this unit, you will develop advanced structural engineering design solutions, drawing on structural analysis, material behaviour, design of structural steel and reinforced concrete structures, sustainable construction practices, and other relevant engineering disciplines. You will work on real-world structural engineering challenges, applying project planning, risk management, systems thinking and problem-solving strategies to create practical and innovative designs that meet industry standards.

Through hands-on design work and collaborative learning, you will refine your technical communication skills, producing detailed design documentation and professional presentations. This unit bridges theory and practice, equipping you with the confidence to make informed engineering decisions that are sustainable, regulation-compliant, and guided by deep respect for cultural heritage, including the knowledge and values of First Nations peoples. The solutions you deliver are expected to be sustainable and contribute to environmental regeneration and social restoration, fostering long-term positive impact.

Learning Outcomes

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

Critique advanced structural engineering design solutions by integrating structural analysis, sustainable materials, construction practices, and interdisciplinary engineering knowledge to address complex design challenges;
Manage all stages of the design project, applying advanced project planning strategies, while demonstrating environmental, social, economic awareness and professional accountability and effective teamwork;
Collaborate effectively as part of a team to design innovative, regulation-compliant engineering solutions informed by sustainable practices and guided by deep respect for cultural heritage, including that of First Nations peoples; and
Elucidate complex structural design solutions through detailed reports, drawings, and professional presentations tailored to technical and non-technical audiences.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Report

Grade: 20%

Preliminary design proposal (Group) (2000 words)

Assessment type: Project

Grade: 50%

Comprehensive project report with calculations, drawings, project management, and validated sustainable and culturally informed design solutions. (Group) (8000 words)

Assessment type: Presentation

Grade: 30%

Oral presentation and individual portfolio documenting design process, project management, and validated solutions. (Individual) (10 mins)

Report: Each student's individual contribution 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.

Project: This secure assessment ensures authenticity through documented milestone checks tied to individual students, in-class feedback sessions incorporating process-focused questioning, and engagement with clients to simulate real-world practice. Students produce industry-standard outputs, and their work is further validated through peer evaluation, feedback and explicit evaluation of each student’s individual contributions and achievement of learning outcomes.

Presentation: This secure assessment features a formal presentation to a panel of experts with unpredictable Q&A to verify critical reasoning, supported by an individual portfolio reflecting on personal contributions, experiences, and responses to feedback

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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