Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

Pre-requisite modules from Newcastle University are CEG2201 (Geotechnics) or suitable degree qualifications in an engineering, geosciences of geotechnical field.

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims:

To explain the principles of the design of shallow and deep foundations
To apply the concepts of foundations design through practical examples
To develop the design skills of a geotechnical engineer To explore different foundation construction techniques To introduce the concepts of soil-structure interaction
Summary: This module builds upon the fundamentals of soil mechanics principles and demonstrates how they are used for the design of shallow and deep foundations.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module will provide an introduction to the design of both shallow and deep foundations, based on Eurocode 7. Different types of shallow foundations will be presented: pad footing, strip footing and raft footing. Students will learn to calculate settlements in both cohesive and granular soils. Students will get practical experience assessing computationally the settlement of shallow foundations. The bearing capacity of shallow foundations will be calculated accounting for the shape of the foundation and inclination of the loads. This module will also present deep foundations. Classification criteria and methods of installation of piles will be presented. Students will calculate settlements of deep foundations in the case of groups of piles. The bearing capacity of piles subjected to vertical actions will also be determined. This module will also cover the basic concepts of soil-structure interactions.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

The mapping of certain AHEPv4 learning outcomes to each intended knowledge outcome is indicated in each point. On successful completion of this module, students will have:

Demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of concepts and principles of the design of shallow and deep foundations. (C2, C5)

Solve engineering problems that require a geotechnical solution based on the assessment of key issues. (C1, C4)

Demonstrate their understanding of numerical and analytical methods. (C3)

Intended Skill Outcomes

Apply computational tools to solve problems in geotechnical engineering analysis, understanding and implementing the principles of validation and verification. (C3)

Creative and innovative ability through the application of concept, theories, and principles of geotechnics to produce optimum solutions to foundations design problems. (C1, C2, C5) Understanding of the design and verification process. (C4) Understanding of numerical and analytical methods. (C3)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The principles of foundations design and analysis are taught in lectures with several problem-solving small group teaching activities in order to gain an understanding of the design procedures. Analytical and numerical methods are taught during lectures and applied during the tutorial sessions. These methodologies will be used in Assessment 1.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The coursework is designed to assess students' numerical and technical skills using geotechnical software, their understanding of Eurocode 7 in the geotechnical design process, and their analysis abilities, interpreting results critically and applying engineering judgment to real-world scenarios. Students’ knowledge and understanding of geotechnical principles in foundation design are assessed through a written examination. The exam will consist of 2 parts: one on shallow foundation design and one on deep foundation design. The use of Eurocode 7 concepts in the design of geotechnical structures will be tested. The AHEP learning outcomes assessed by this module are C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C16, C17.

General Notes

N/A