Graduate Catalog 2020-2021

Specialized Learning Opportunities

Geotechnical Engineering Specialization

Geotechnical engineering includes the design of underground space and infrastructure. Designs could address mine subsidence, levee construction or stabilization, foundations, and road base materials.

Courses

In developing a plan of study, students need to consider which courses will enable them to reach their goals as a geotechnical engineer. Students may wish to choose courses that assist in the completion of a thesis or final research paper. The following highlights the variety of courses available. Note that not all courses may be offered at all times and that course offerings do not guarantee availability of a spot in that class. It is up to students to review published schedules and consult with their advisor to find out when the courses are offered and how they fit into a course of study schedule. In addition, it is up to students to ensure they have met the prerequisites for the courses prior to enrollment.

Students are required to complete 10 courses, which is 30-31 hours of advanced study. At least 15 hours must be at the 500-level. ENG 491 is required for all students unless conditional exemption is granted; see the Writing Proficiency Requirement for further details. ENG 491, if taken, can be counted as part of the 30-31 hours of advanced study. CE 593 is required for the non-thesis option. CE 599 is required for the thesis option.

At least five courses must be chosen from the following list: 

• (3) CE 455 Foundation Design
• (3) CE 457 Soil Mechanics in Engineering
• (3) CE 545 Structural Dynamics
• (3) CE 548 Finite Elements
• (3) CE 596 Sustainable Engineering
• Appropriate three credit hour substitute to be approved by the advisor
• CE 591 or 599 may be taken in place of up to two of the above courses upon advance approval of the committee. You will need to complete a course study proposal prior to enrolling in either of these classes.
• In addition, up to three special course offerings, listed as CE 492 or CE 592, may be taken with the advance approval of the committee. 
  • (3) CE 492-10 Geological and Geotechnical Exploration
  • (3) CE 492-11 Soil Improvement Methods
  • (3) CE 492-12 Environmental Geotechnics
  • (3) CE 592-02 Advanced Soil Mechanics
  • (3) CE 592-10 Design of Levees and Floodwalls
  • (3) CE 592-11 Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering
  • (3) CE 592-12 Advanced Foundation Engineering
  • (3) CE 592-13 Geotechnical Instrumentation

The remaining credit hours should be completed in consultation with your advisor from the specialization list or the approved elective list on the department webpage.