Mechanics of Materials

Unit code: NEC2001 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEF1004 - Principles of Structural Mechanics; or
NEF1104 - Problem Solving for Engineers
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will explore how materials behave under real-world loads by studying fundamental concepts such as stress, strain, and deformation, core principles that underpin the safe and effective design of engineering structures. Interactive workshops, hands-on applications, and computational simulations will deepen your understanding of axial loading, bending, torsion, and combined stresses, bridging theory with practice.

Through case studies and engineering applications, you will examine the role of material selection and mechanical properties in civil and mechanical engineering. By the end of this unit, you will have the analytical skills to assess material performance and failure modes, preparing you for advanced studies in civil engineering and professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Analyse the behaviour of materials under various loading conditions to inform safe and efficient design;
  2. Apply the principles of stress, strain, and deformation to practical engineering problem-solving;
  3. Predict material failure using analytical and computational tools;
  4. Collaborate effectively within teams to achieve shared objectives, demonstrating clear communication, mutual respect, and the ability to contribute constructively to group problem-solving and decision-making; and
  5. Evaluate the mechanical properties of materials and their impact on structural integrity and functional performance in engineering design.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 20%
Portfolio of problem-solving tasks. (Individual) (1000 words)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 30%
Design Challenge: Structural components analysis and optimisation (Group) (1800 words)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 50%
Problem solving scenario test involving the mechanical properties of materials (Individual) (90 mins)

Portfolio: Structured weekly portfolio of problem-solving tasks with progressive skill development supported by regular feedback and validation discussions.

Project: This secure assessment ensures accountability through structured reflection, documented collaboration, and detailed explanation of techniques, with in-class progressive milestone checks linked to individual students also being used to enhance security. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further support the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Test: This secure invigilated in class 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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