STRUCTURA ACADEMIC · DRAFT CURRICULUM PLAN
Geotechnical Engineering
A ground-engineering pathway connecting site investigation and soil behaviour to foundations, retaining systems, slopes and risk-managed design.
Designed forCivil engineering learners moving from soil mechanics into design and ground-risk decisions.
Plan, then publish. This research-backed structure is in draft review. Linked lessons retain their existing review status; unlinked modules are curriculum scopes, not published engineering instruction.
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Recommended prior knowledge
- Engineering geology
- Mechanics and stress
- Basic hydraulics
- Engineering mathematics
STACKED LEARNING PATHWAY
Explore the curriculum
Select a level or search across module topics and outcomes.
9 modules shown
01Stack 0 · Prior knowledgeGround models and site investigationPlan investigations and turn desk study, field and laboratory evidence into an engineering ground model.22 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Desk study and walkover
- Boreholes, sampling and in-situ tests
- Ground-model uncertainty
Learning outcomes
- Scope a proportionate investigation
- Communicate uncertainty and data gaps
02Stack 1 · FoundationsSoil classification and index propertiesUse particle size, plasticity and descriptive systems to classify soils for engineering decisions.18 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Phase relationships
- Particle-size distribution
- Atterberg limits and soil descriptions
Learning outcomes
- Classify common soils
- Relate index properties to likely behaviour
03Stack 2 · Core analysisEffective stress, permeability and seepageConnect groundwater, pore pressure and seepage to stress, stability and construction risk.28 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Effective stress
- Darcy flow and flow nets
- Uplift, piping and dewatering
Learning outcomes
- Calculate effective stresses
- Identify seepage-related failure modes
04Stack 2 · Core analysisConsolidation and settlementEstimate immediate and time-dependent settlement and judge serviceability implications.26 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Compressibility and oedometer data
- One-dimensional consolidation
- Settlement profiles and tolerability
Learning outcomes
- Estimate settlement magnitude and rate
- Select defensible parameters
05Stack 2 · Core analysisShear strength and parameter selectionInterpret drained and undrained behaviour and select parameters consistent with the design situation.28 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Mohr-Coulomb framework
- Laboratory and field testing
- Characteristic parameter selection
Learning outcomes
- Select appropriate strength models
- Explain parameter provenance
06Stack 3 · Applied designFoundation engineeringDesign shallow and deep foundations for resistance, settlement, constructability and interaction with the ground.38 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Bearing resistance
- Pile capacity and group effects
- Ground–structure interaction
Learning outcomes
- Choose a suitable foundation form
- Complete resistance and settlement checks
07Stack 3 · Applied designRetaining structures and slope stabilityDevelop stable earth-retaining and slope solutions with realistic groundwater and construction conditions.34 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Earth pressures
- Retaining-wall systems
- Limit-equilibrium slope stability
Learning outcomes
- Evaluate retaining-system actions
- Identify critical slope mechanisms
08Stack 4 · Advanced practiceGround improvement, geo-hazards and monitoringSelect improvement and observational approaches for difficult ground and geotechnical hazards.24 hoursLessons linked
Core topics
- Improvement methods
- Instrumentation and observational method
- Risk registers and reporting
Learning outcomes
- Compare improvement options
- Define trigger-based monitoring
09Stack 5 · IntegrationIntegrated geotechnical designProduce a site-wide ground-engineering strategy from investigation through design, construction control and verification.40 hoursPlan only
Core topics
- Ground model and design situations
- Foundation and retaining-system integration
- Construction risks and verification
Learning outcomes
- Deliver an integrated geotechnical basis
- Defend assumptions and residual risks
RESEARCH BASIS
Curriculum sources
Used to identify recurring themes and sequence the main modules. STRUCTURA’s pathway is a synthesis, not a reproduction of any institution’s programme.
NEXT STEP
Start reviewed content Move from plan to reviewed lessons
8 modules already connect to STRUCTURA lesson pathways. Remaining modules stay clearly marked as plans until their content passes review.