Structural Analysis and Design

Unit code: NEC2003 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEC2001 - Mechanics of Materials; or
NEC2102 - Solid Mechanics
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

In this unit, you will investigate how loads are transferred and distributed through trusses, beams, and frames, applying both statically determinate and indeterminate analysis using force and displacement methods. You will also examine structural stability and buckling behaviour, using classical analytical techniques alongside computational tools to model and analyse complex structural systems.

The unit also introduces fundamental concepts in steel structural design, focusing on beams and columns, preparing you to design safe and efficient structures that align with industry standards and codes of practice. By the end of this unit, you will have developed skills in performing structural analysis, applying stability principles, and designing structural steel elements in compliance with relevant codes and standards.

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Conduct and interpret structural analysis to solve both well-defined and moderately complex engineering problems;
  2. Model and simulate structural systems using appropriate software and digital tools, integrating relevant data to support engineering decision-making;
  3. Evaluate structural stability and recommend design strategies that mitigate potential failure modes, incorporating safety, sustainability, and reliability considerations;
  4. Design structural steel components in alignment with current industry codes, standards, and best practices, ensuring ethical and regulatory compliance; and
  5. Collaborate effectively in teams to achieve shared goals through clear communication, mutual respect, and constructive contribution to problem-solving and decision-making.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Problem-solving scenario test that integrates numerical calculations with conceptual reasoning. (Individual) (45mins)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 40%
Analysis and design of a structural system. (Group) (2000 words)
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 30%
Presentation of the design process and final structure to peers and instructors. (Individual) (10mins)

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

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 assessment 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.

Presentation: This secure assessment features an oral presentation on the design process, key decisions, and final solution, followed by unpredictable Q&A to assess each student’s understanding and critical reasoning.

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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