Civil Engineering

Module overview:

This module covers structural design processes in concrete, masonry, timber, and steel, emphasizing elastic structural analysis methods and virtual work. You will gain proficiency in analysing elastic indeterminate structures and understanding loadings and structural stability. The module covers use of matrix methods and stiffness methods.

Practical application is emphasized through hands-on exercises and projects. The module links to Interdisciplinary Design Project 2, enabling you to apply theoretical and analytical skills in a real-world context. It includes lectures, problem classes, practical work, and guest lectures from industry experts.

How you'll learn:

You will learn through lectures, seminars, examples classes, experimental laboratories and practical applications. You will be assessed through in-class tests and laboratory activities. You will be introduced to risk assessments for safe working practices in laboratories.

Module overview:

This module aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of soil mechanics and its applications in Civil Engineering. The module is structured to develop understanding of the fundamental principles governing site investigation methodologies, laboratory testing of soils, and hence soil behaviour.

You will engage in both desk-based geotechnical studies and practical laboratory sessions.  Emphasis will be placed on soil sampling techniques and the interpretation of site investigation reports and hands-on experience in assessing various soil properties.  You will gain insights into the real-world implications of soil behaviour and its significance in Civil Engineering applications. The module covers the bearing capacity design of shallow foundations and their settlement. The skills acquired in this module are directly relevant to the challenges faced in the field of geotechnical engineering, preparing you for future professional practice.

How you'll learn:

The module will be delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory sessions, case studies, problem classes and practical fieldwork. Guest lectures from industry experts may be included to provide insights into the practical applications of geotechnical engineering. You will be required to comply with risk assessment for working in the geotechnics laboratory.

Module overview:

This module will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of fluid mechanics, focusing on the principles that govern fluid behaviour and their applications in civil engineering. You will develop knowledge of fluid statics and dynamics, including the equations that describe fluid flow and their use in designing pipes, open channels, and hydraulic machines.

You will explore fluid mechanics principles in real-world engineering contexts, learning how to analyze fluid behavior and apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios. The module also focuses on designing systems for fluid transport, emphasizing problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical skills essential for professional engineering roles.

How you'll learn:

By engaging in laboratory work, computational modeling, and site visits, you will apply your knowledge to real-world case studies. Assessment will be through in-class tests and laboratory reports, ensuring that you can demonstrate both conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving skills.

Module overview:

In this module you will apply the knowledge and skills acquired at Level 4 and during Level 5 to a multi-faceted design problem of a building or part of one, develop holistic design thinking, further embed approaches to design that are sustainable and carbon neutral, in particular novel materials, timber and reused or recycled steel and carbon accounting for construction, and to continue with self-reflection and collaborative practices with other disciplines. Further, the project will usually be related to one of the key contexts adopted by SETEC, e.g. the UN Sustainable Development Goals and industry collaboration. Further, where appropriate, you will also work with other students in ‘vertical’ cross-cohort disciplinary groups where you are given the opportunity for peer-to-peer learning.

The content is delivered in the context of a design project in which you play the role of a professional within your discipline within a broader design team. This module employs an experiential learning approach, integrating problem-based learning (PBL) and collaborative, interdisciplinary teamwork to simulate professional practice.

You will present your design appropriately using hand-drawn sketches, computer generated graphics, computer aided drawings, physical models, calculations, specifications, and bills of materials/ quantity. You will be developing your knowledge of computer assisted design and engineering in context and its value in terms of optimisation and parametric design.

How you'll learn:

The project has an individual component and a groupwork component. A combination of tutorial and design studio sessions will be used to generate the designs and track progress.

You will continue your planning and recording of self-learning and development as the foundation for lifelong learning / CPD. This will be continued within each Interdisciplinary Design Project at each level of the course.

Module overview:

The Further Structural Analysis module explores more advanced structural analysis techniques. The primary aim is to cultivate the necessary knowledge, understanding, and skills to analyse and solve complex problems associated with multi-variable structural systems. This includes an in-depth focus on both statically determinate and indeterminate structures, with an extended emphasis on the analysis of plates.

Emphasis is placed on the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering problems. You will engage in practical problem-solving exercises, case studies, and a design project that requires the application of advanced structural analysis techniques to address complex engineering challenges.

The module introduces you to the Finite Element Method (FEM), a powerful numerical technique widely used in structural engineering. You will not only understand the theoretical foundations of FEM but will also gain practical experience through the use of finite element analysis software, preparing them for sophisticated analysis and design tasks. The module also extends your knowledge to include structural dynamics.

The module also covers design processes for foundations, retaining walls, and slopes. The primary objective is to equip you with in-depth knowledge and skills essential for designing resilient, effective and stable support systems within the broader context of civil engineering projects. This module builds upon knowledge acquired in earlier modules, specifically the Level 5 structures and soil mechanics modules.

How you'll learn:

The module will be delivered through a mix of seminars, workshops, and site visits.  Practical design exercises and case studies will be integral to the learning process, allowing you to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. Interaction with industry practitioners and guest lecturers will provide additional insights.

Module overview:

This module explores the theoretical foundations of highway and railway geometric design and construction, with an emphasis on sustainable travel solutions. It equips you with the knowledge and skills required to design transport alignments, including horizontal and vertical geometry. The module builds on Level 5 knowledge from Fluid Mechanics and Soil Mechanics and incorporates aspects of water management in infrastructure design.

A critical aspect of transport design is managing water around infrastructure. The module examines both traditional (grey) drainage solutions and nature-based (blue-green) solutions, which restore water cycles and provide environmental benefits.

Throughout the module, you will engage in practical design exercises, a group transport alignment project, and a feasibility study on drainage systems. Industry guest lectures and site visits will supplement your learning, exposing you to real-world challenges and innovations.

How you'll learn:

The module will be delivered through a mix of seminars, workshops, and site visits. Practical design exercises and case studies will be integral to the learning process, allowing you to apply theoretical concepts to real-world transportation and projects. Guest lectures from industry experts will provide additional insights.

Module overview:

This module provides you with the opportunity to independently investigate a selected topic of interest in a built environment related issue, and the scope may include, if appropriate, the development of a design. The design option is for students of who would like to carry out an individual design project and is primarily aimed at students who are enrolled on programmes that involve some level of design discipline. You will need to take responsibility for managing your time, identifying objectives and follow a systematic approach to explore, and possibly solve, a problem, or generate a design. It includes the production of a report of the investigative project. 
 
You will select a topic for research or design provided by prospective supervisors, or they may propose a topic for research to the module leader who will seek a suitable supervisor. Proposed topics may be the subject of further discussion and development before they are mutually agreed by you and your proposed supervisor.
 
The project will typically be of an investigative nature, exploring and extending your knowledge of the chosen subject within the context of the construction industry. A design project will also require a good degree of investigation on your part. You are expected to demonstrate an understanding of fundamental principles of research, follow research ethics and appropriate methodologies for collecting and analysing primary and / or secondary data and communicate your findings to a professional standard. You will be required to submit an application for ethical approval for the research prior to any primary data collection involving human subjects. You will also need to develop a risk assessment for all practical work either in the field or laboratory.

How you'll learn:

There will be a programme of lectures and seminars at the beginning of the module to introduce you to research techniques and appropriate methodologies. This will include coverage of appropriate statistical techniques that you may need to adopt. Online resources will be provided to support the investigation. Specialist librarian support will be provided to help you with literature searches and use of software for citing articles and providing their bibliographies in a reference list. You are expected to show considerable initiative throughout the duration of the module and schedule supervision meetings with their supervisors.

Module overview:

In this module, you will further develop your ability to design larger-scale built environment artefacts of a more complex scale for a specific development site. The projects will usually be related to one of the key contexts adopted by SETEC, e.g. the UN Sustainable Development Goals and industry collaboration.  You will also work with students in ‘vertical’ cross-cohort disciplinary groups providing additional opportunity for peer-to-peer learning.

You will conduct research on the background of the site and explore developments in design and construction practices and techniques. It will therefore contain research methods teaching, also required for the Investigative Project. This instruction will build on that provided as part of Integrated Design Project 1 and 2. You will develop your understanding and application of project planning, cost estimation, risk assessment, ethics, sustainability, and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). It will also cover matters connected with search and retrieval of academic and grey literature, constructing text which summarises current known knowledge, critical thinking, the construction of technical reports, and writing.

How you'll learn:

You will work collaboratively to develop built environment proposals for a concept scheme at a specified development site, which may include geotechnical, water design and transport (such as pedestrian and cycle access within the perimeter). Working in teams, you will be presented with a brief that they will need to interpret, and where necessary challenge, in order to develop a programme of integrated activity.

Module overview:

The module is aimed at developing understanding of vibration in structures, and gives you the skills required in using analytical and numerical assessment techniques with a focus on methods of damping and seismic design. You will develop a deep understanding of vibration phenomena in structures; skills in employing both theoretical and computational methods to predict and evaluate the dynamic response of structures; and skills in seismic analysis and design codes to ensure structural resilience in seismic-prone regions.  

Building upon foundational knowledge from level 5 and Level 6 modules in structures, this module ensures a progressive and in-depth understanding of dynamic behaviour in structures. The module will also cover structural forensics in relation to measuring real-time stresses and strains, structural responses and condition.

How you'll learn:

Practical exercises and case studies will be integral to the learning process, allowing you to apply advanced theoretical concepts to real-world structural dynamics and earthquake engineering challenges. The incorporation of these practical exercises ensures that you gain hands-on experience, preparing you for challenges encountered in the field of civil engineering, particularly in seismically active regions.

Module overview:

The module offers an in-depth exploration into the advanced behaviours of materials. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive understanding of material innovations and introduce you to methods for assessing embodied carbon and sustainability in the context of materials choice. Building on the foundational knowledge gained in the earlier module in Civil Engineering Materials and Soils, this module considers advanced concepts to allow you to make sophisticated decisions about materials for Civil Engineering projects.

In addition to material behaviours, you will be introduced to cutting-edge material innovations, including advanced composites, smart materials, and nanotechnology.  You will also be encouraged to foster an awareness of emerging materials that push the boundaries of traditional construction materials, providing new possibilities for structural design and performance.

You will be equipped with the skills to assess the embodied carbon and sustainability implications associated with different materials choices.  You will also explore life cycle assessment methods to evaluate the environmental impact of materials throughout their life cycle, from extraction to disposal.

How you'll learn:

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshop/laboratory sessions. Practical exercises, case studies, and exposure to industry practices will provide you with hands-on experience in assessing and selecting materials based on advanced behaviours and sustainability criteria.

Module overview:

This module offers a comprehensive exploration into the potential and limits of geotechnical models. The primary objective is to develop a deeper understanding of soil stress and strain modelling, enhance skills in numerical methods, and extract valuable lessons from geotechnical engineering failures. This module further extends its scope to encompass geo-environmental engineering, considering the interaction between geotechnical processes and the environment. Building on skills and knowledge gained in earlier geotechnical modules, this course equips you with advanced tools to tackle complex challenges in geotechnical engineering.

You will analyse and extract valuable insights from geotechnical engineering failures, to understanding the contributing factors and lessons learned.  From this you will learn to apply failure analysis to improve future geotechnical design and decision-making.

Looking beyond the geotechnical modelling and analysis, you will be introduced to the principles of geo-environmental engineering, examining the interaction between geotechnical processes and the environment.  You will also address challenges related to the impact of geotechnical projects on environmental sustainability.

How you'll learn:

The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshop/laboratory sessions. Practical exercises, case studies, and exposure to industry practices will provide you with hands-on experience in assessing and selecting materials based on advanced behaviours and sustainability criteria.

Module overview:

In this module, you will extend your design capabilities to the highest levels by engaging with complex engineering problems. You will work on real-world projects that require managing uncertainty, using engineering judgment, and evaluating the sustainability and ethical implications of design solutions. You will develop skills in critical analysis, creative problem-solving, and stakeholder communication. Throughout the module, you will apply emerging technologies and innovative design methods to create solutions that align with industry standards and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By working in teams and independently, you will enhance your ability to collaborate across civil engineering disciplines and reflect on your professional development.

The design brief will allow you to develop skills in critical analysis and managing ambiguity. The solution will need to address client and stakeholder requirements and project risks. Through the design process you will have an opportunity to apply creativity, innovation and technical knowledge to produce design concepts and develop a design solution. The solution should meet current and future needs and consider both current and emerging technologies. It should also take into account the appropriate UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

How you'll learn:

You will work in groups and individually to produce a design solution for a design brief, which fully considers issues in connection with sustainability, ethics and equality, diversity and inclusion. The engineering problem allocated to each group will be selected to allow collaborative working across different civil engineering disciplines.

30 credits

You will develop your core academic and integrated English language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. You will become familiar with key academic skills and concepts, such as referencing methods and awareness of academic integrity and tone. You will apply these skills and knowledge to both broad topics and also your chosen subject pathway.

Teaching and learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs.

30 credits

You will develop your research, numeracy and information technology skills. You will investigate the difference between primary and secondary research, conduct your own research project and demonstrate your findings through data analysis. You will also develop your awareness of equality, diversion and inclusion in the UK, through a real-world issue; discrimination in the workplace.

Teaching and learning

You will be required to actively engage in on-campus learning for up to 10 hours a week.

You will be taught through a full range of teaching and learning methods, which include lectures, seminars, workshops, discussion groups, group directed tasks and presentations. This will enable you to learn from your peers and tutors in both structured and information settings.

You will be encouraged to think creatively about your approach to learning and discussions with your peers. You will also have access to recordings, resources, links and signposting through Moodle to enrich your learning.

Assessment

You will be assessed through group and individual presentations, comparative and reflective essays, multiple choice exams, coursework and reports, oral exams, portfolios, case studies and blogs. 

30 credits

This module is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the essential concepts, skills, and knowledge required for a successful career in the built environment. You will explore a wide range of topics that lay the groundwork for further study and professional development in fields such as Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Architectural Technology and surveying, among others.

Teaching and learning

This module employs a variety of learning methods to enhance understanding and engagement, which includes lectures, interactive workshops, case studies, practical exercises and field trips, group discussions, guest speakers and digital learning.

The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour seminar per week. Lectures will cover core indicative content, while seminars will consist of research workshops, as well as small group learning on relevant case studies.

Seminars will also be used to provide practical observation opportunities (or simulated observations) for you to reflect upon implementation of policies and professional skills.

You will also have an additional 30 minutes of online support each week to develop your communication skills as well as providing you with opportunities to explore wider practices.

Assessment

This module will be assessed using a report and a presentation.

60% - written report, on a clear assessment brief.

40% - individual presentation, which will be peer, and tutor assessed for the quality of the presentation and response to questions.

30 credits

This module provides a comprehensive exploration of various aspects crucial to the basic understanding of designing and managing the built environment effectively. From foundational principles to cutting-edge innovations, this module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the broad built environment sector.

Teaching and learning

This module employs a variety of learning methods to enhance understanding and engagement, which includes lectures, interactive workshops, case studies, practical exercises and field trips, group discussions, guest speakers and digital learning.

The teaching delivery for each module consists of one, one-three-hour lecture and one, two-hour seminar per week. Lectures will cover core indicative content, while seminars will consist of research workshops, as well as small group learning on relevant case studies.

Seminars will also be used to provide practical observation opportunities (or simulated observations) for you to reflect upon implementation of policies and professional skills.

You will also have an additional 30 minutes of online support each week to develop your communication skills as well as providing you with opportunities to explore wider practices.

Assessment

This module will be assessed using a report and a presentation.

60% - written report, on a clear assessment brief.

40% - group presentation, which will be peer, and tutor assessed for the quality of the presentation and response to questions.