Structural Engineering and Architecture MEng

Core modules:

Civil Engineering Mathematics

This module aims to reinforce students' previous knowledge and to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the level 2 mathematics courses in the appropriate engineering department.

20 credits

Civil Engineering Skills

This module aims to give students the tools to become excellent engineers. This begins with the ability to communicate their designs through hand sketches and through the use of AutoCAD (a graphical design package). Students are then expected to use peer assessment to assess their drawings so they can understand how not only to create drawings but also how to effectively present information on them too. Basic skills incomputer programming are also introduced to give students the ability to solve complex problems. In second semester the module concentrates on surveying skills, culminating in a group field project.

20 credits

Civil and Structural Engineering Mechanics 1

This module is delivered in both the Autumn and Spring Semesters.Teaching in the first semester is designed to provide a basis of knowledge and understanding of elastic structural analysis and will be applied to two key structural forms - trusses and beams. The focus of the second semester is on the analysis of stress, strain and elastic deformation of beams, qualitative structural analysis of beam-like structures and the fundamentals of plasticity.

20 credits

Environment and Technology 1

This module is the first in a series on building environment and technology. It introduces the constructional and structural principles of small buildings and the ways in which buildings modify the thermal aural and visual environments.

10 credits

Environment and Technology 2

A continuation from ARC107, this module describes the constructional and structural principles of small buildings and the way in which buildings modify the sensory environment.

10 credits

Geotechnical Engineering 1

This module is an introductory module to the use of soils in engineering practice. As soils are a naturally varying material, the creation of different soil types is first discussed giving the student a background in why soils differ. This then progresses into the engineering classification of soils followed by the design of simple geotechnical structures. These include retaining walls and earth embankments.

10 credits

Humanities 1

ARC103 Provides an introduction to the history of western architecture over the period 1850 to the present through the detailed exploration of the work of a series of key figures. Emphasis will be placed on architects' response to the natural environment.

10 credits

Humanities 2

ARC 104 concerns the reciprocal relationship between architecture and society, exploring the issues through a broad range of case studies. Mainly dwellings, these include several from anthropological sources dealing with vernacular buildings to show how architecture worked when people built for themselves directly without recourse to building specialists and mechanised technology. The course seeks to establish that architecture works not only through style and symbolic reference but also in the way it is organised, through the framing of human activities and rituals. The cross-cultural approach prompts the question of what remains specific to a local context and what can be regarded as universal.

10 credits

Introduction to Structural Materials Engineering

This lecture course covers all the main classes of materials (ceramics, metals, polymers, natural materials and composites), describing the properties that they show, the root cause of their properties, the structure, and how we can affect this by processing to get the properties we want. The course will also introduce some ways that the best material for a purpose can be selected.

10 credits

Global Engineering Challenge Week

The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme, and the project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of six, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, ICT, Waste Management and Energy with scenarios set in a developing country. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Challenge* and other projects have been suggested by an academic at the University of Makerere in Uganda (who is involved in developing solutions using IT systems for health, agriculture and resource problems in developing countries). Students are assessed on a number of aspects of being a professional engineer both by Faculty alumni and a number of local industrial engineers.*The EWB Challenge is a design program coordinated internationally by Engineers Without Borders Australia and delivered in Australian, New Zealand, British and Irish universities. It provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects. By participating in the EWB Challenge students are presented with a fantastic opportunity to design creative solutions to problems identified by real EWB projects. Each year, the EWB Challenge design brief is based on a set of sustainable development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations. http://www.ewb-uk.org/ewbchallenge

Core modules:

Architectural Design 2

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: widen perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design

30 credits

Architectural Design 1 (Dual Architecture and Engineering)

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: introducethe perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technologicalsignificance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging designproblems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of theway building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to thearchitectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of thatunderstanding as an essential component of practical architectural design.

20 credits

Structural Analysis I

This module is designed to improve your knowledge understanding of how elastic and plastic methods of structural analysis can be applied to various structural forms. The module will be delivered via lectures, supported by problem-solving, computer and laboratory classes and a one-day field trip to view building and bridge structures. You will develop your ability to analyse structures under working and ultimate loads, by hand and via computer.

20 credits

Structural Engineering Design and Appraisal

This module will discuss the fundamental principles of structural engineering philosophy and design. The theories and concepts of analysis and design of structural elements will be presented for the most commonly used structural materials and discussed along with the more prescriptive design rules included in the relevant Eurocodes.

20 credits

Further Civil Engineering Mathematics and Computing

This module is part of a series of second-level modules designed for the particular group of engineers shown in brackets in the module title. Each module consolidates previous mathematical knowledge and new mathematical techniques relevant to the particular engineering discipline.

10 credits

Geotechnical Engineering 2a

This module is aimed at extending your knowledge of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering. The focus is on applying fundamental understanding of mechanics to geotechnical problem solving with an emphasis on fluid-soil interaction. The approach is designed to link soil mechanics theory (e.g. seepage, consolidation and settlement) to practical application (e.g. deformation of foundations) through the use of physical models and case studies. The course will encompass lectures, tutorials, group work including laboratories, and directed and independent reading.

10 credits

Materials for Structural Engineering

This module looks at the role of materials and materials properties used for structural design. The module will be delivered using a combination of lectures, on-line learning initiatives and group-based practicals.

10 credits

Engineering - You're Hired

The Faculty-wide Engineering - You're Hired Week is a compulsory part of the second year programme, and the week has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of about six, students will work in interdisciplinary teams on a real world problem over an intensive week-long project.The projects are based on problems provided by industrial partners, and students will come up with ideas to solve them and proposals for a project to develop these ideas further.

Core modules:

Architectural Design 4

ARC226 follows on directly from ARC225. Together they form an integrated sequence of projects for the second year design studio course. ARC226 continues the practical architectural design work of ARC225, but concentrates on the design of a medium-sized public building, including the integration of technical and environmental elements.

30 credits

Project Design 53

ARC275 is a course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the experience of the first year design studio. The scale of projects addressed increases from those encountered in the first year architectural design with more complex briefs. Consideration is given to the issues of sustainability, the relation of buildings to their urban context and the design of outside spaces. The technical aspects of the work aim to further develop an understanding of building structure, construction, materials and serivces in relation to the overall design concept.

20 credits

Advanced Structural Analysis

Advanced Structural Analysis aims to teach you the most modern theories suitable for performing the static assessment of structural members subjected to in-service multiaxial loading. Initially, this module focuses on the linear-elastic behaviour of structural members loaded in torsion as well as in bending. The fundamental equations modelling the behaviour of beams under the above loading conditions are derived by following rigorous mathematical procedures. The module examines also those equivalent stresses (such as von Mises, Tresca, etc.) commonly used in situation of practical interest do design structural members against complex systems of forces and moments. Finally, the problem of designing notched structural members against multiaxial static loading is addressed in great detail by considering both ductile and brittle materials.

10 credits

Advanced Structural Design and Appraisal

This module takes students through the process of designing short to medium height multi-storey buildings, based around a case study of a real building. The process initially looks at options for gravity load-bearing elements, (such as floor slabs, beams and columns) as well as options for lateral load resisting systems (such as reinforced concrete shear walls / cores and steel bracing frames), before carrying out analysis and design of the selected options. The module also provides an overview of the history of multi-storey buildings, as well as looking at key considerations such as fire, robustness and vibration.This module is intended to prepare students for carrying out the analysis and design of multi-storey buildings in the 'Integrated Design Project' (IDP).

10 credits

Construction Project Management

This module is designed to introduce students to key factors that influence the development and management of construction projects throughout their lifecycle and various key construction management processes/ techniques / tools that can be used to plan, co-ordinate and control project development. It will also introduce professional and legal responsibilities of industry practitioners. The module will involve research, evaluation and discussion of industry information on issues such as construction project procurement, project planning, health and safety risk management, project risks and technological developments in the construction industry. The module will be assessed through group presentations and an individual reflective report.

10 credits

Environment and Technology 3

ARC207 introduces the technology of medium-scale buildings. It comprises three lecture courses: Construction and materials, Architectural Structures (steelwork) and Environmental Design (thermal analysis and systems).

10 credits

Environment and Technology 4

A continuation from ARC207, this module describes the technology of medium-scale buildings. It comprises three lecture courses: Construction and materials. Architectural Structures. Environment and Services.

10 credits

Humanities 3

This module covers a wide-ranging cultural history of architecture and its relationship between changing states of society, the development of urban culture and institutions, and the growth of knowledge and ideas. The module pivots between scientific knowledge and artistic and cultural development, and is intended to help students from both scientific, social sciences and arts and humanities backgrounds to begin to make connections and understand the context within which architecture is set.

10 credits

Humanities 4

ARC 204 links the production of architectures through buildings with the production of knowledge through research, with a particular overall focus on the human condition. In 10 lectures and 10 research seminars, this module investigates the development of architecture and architectural thinking along with the different forms of organisation of architectural practice. Lectures and seminars will examine the emergence of new building typologies in the mid nineteenth century, as well as the big issues that architecture is facing today. Lectures will focus on the critical aspects of each `issue¿ whilst research seminars will link this perspective to contemporary research through a discussion of the contemporary dimension

10 credits

Core modules:

Independent Research Project for Structural Engineering And Architecture

The MEng individual final year research project is a major piece of investigative research in a subject that is not of a routine nature that will enable students to gain expertise in investigative techniques and understanding research methods. It is intended to be intellectually challenging. It is expected that during their research, students will develop and exhibit competence in the following: defining a problem, researching and critically analysing information and data, problem solving, writing a report, and discussing and defending their findings. Students are also expected to take initiative, to plan / organise their own programme of research, to work independently and to display originality and creativity.

30 credits

Architectural Design 6 (Dual Architecture & Engineering)

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the lessons learnt in the second and third year design studio. The studio based design projects involve schemes of greater complexity than previously, with emphasis placed on the integration of knowledge gained during the three year course. Projects focus on the importance of physical context, introduce a wider range of building types, and require analytical studies relating to urban design, precedents and philosophical approaches. The associated technical studies closely relate to the design projects and are seen as an integral part of the design process.

20 credits

Project Design 55

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the lessons learnt in the second and third year design studio. The studio based design projects involve schemes of greater complexity than previously, with emphasis placed on the integration of knowledge gained during the three year course. Projects focus on the importance of physical context, introduce a wider range of building types, and require analytical studies relating to urban design, precedents and philosophical approaches. The associated technical studies closely relate to the design projects and are seen as an integral part of the design process.

20 credits

Structural Dynamics and Applications to Vibration Design

This module is designed to provide students with a systematic knowledge and understanding of structural dynamics and its applications in Civil Engineering. On successful completion of this module, students will be able to perform calculation and analyse vibration response of single-degree-of-freedom and multi-degree-of-freedom systems and apply simple structural dynamics theory to solve practical problems in earthquake engineering and vibration engineering.

15 credits

Advanced Structural Systems

This module explores through design work the idea of advanced structural systems - structures that not only carry the loads but also fulfil the intended architectural expression in terms of achieving spatial, aesthetic, social and cultural aspirations. Through guest speakers, tutorials and design work the module aims to investigate the manner in which structural knowledge can be used to achieve design aspirations, and how thisinfluences the design process, the final design outcome, the construction process and the constructed reality.

10 credits

Advanced Structures and Environment

The module investigates the technology and environment of buildings, mainly at medium-scale and also introduces the technology of urban-scale environments. It consists of component lecture courses: Sustainability, Lighting, Structures and Acoustics. The emphasis is on the integration of the different aspects of building technology with each other and with architectural and engineering design in its entirety. This includes: environmental impact of specifications, sustainable technologies, infrastructure, structures and aspects of comfort. The module provides knowledge required in level 4 studio work and in architectural practice.

10 credits

Environment and Technology 6

This module describes the technology and environment of medium-scale buildings. It is to be taken in association with a design scheme or case study. Acoustics, lighting, environment, services and sustainability are examined in the context of the complete architectural design.

10 credits

Civil Engineering Research Proposal

This module consists a self-contained 5 credit element on research skills. It combines lectures and a seminar, with the primary learning objective to produce a research proposal to support the semester 2 (MEng) and the summer (MSc) individual research projects. This module is taught intensely in weeks 2, 4 and 7 of semester 1 and consists of lectures on research project formulation, design and methodology, library skills sessions on searching for sources, and seminars providing subject-specific guidance on research in particular areas of Civil and Structural Engineering research. Module assessment is based on a research proposal, submitted in week 10 of semester 1 by MEng students and week x by MSc students.

5 credits