Faculty: INSTITUTE OF GRADUATE PGROGRAMS This major focuses on the study of soil and rock behavior in relation to construction and infrastructure development. Students explore key areas such as soil mechanics, foundation engineering, slope stability, and geotechnical site investigation. The program emphasizes problem-solving, safety, and sustainability in designing and analyzing earth structures, preparing graduates for careers in civil engineering, construction, and environmental geotechnology. **Learning Objectives:** - Understand the principles of soil mechanics and rock behavior. - Develop skills in geotechnical site investigation and laboratory testing. - Learn techniques for designing foundations, retaining walls, and earthworks. - Explore methods for assessing and mitigating geotechnical hazards such as landslides and soil liquefaction. - Study ground improvement techniques and sustainable geotechnical engineering practices. - Analyze real-world case studies of geotechnical challenges and solutions. **Major Outline:** 1. **Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering** - Overview of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and geotechnical applications. 2. **Soil Mechanics and Properties** - Study of soil classification, permeability, compaction, and stress distribution. 3. **Foundation Engineering** - Design and analysis of shallow and deep foundations for buildings and infrastructure. 4. **Slope Stability and Earth Retaining Structures** - Techniques for assessing and improving slope stability and designing retaining walls. 5. **Geotechnical Site Investigation and Testing** - Methods for soil and rock sampling, in-situ testing, and laboratory analysis. 6. **Ground Improvement Techniques** - Soil stabilization, grouting, and other methods for enhancing ground conditions. 7. **Seismic and Environmental Geotechnics** - Study of earthquake effects, soil liquefaction, and environmental geotechnology. 8. **Geotechnical Risk Assessment and Management** - Evaluating and mitigating geotechnical risks in construction projects. 9. **Sustainable Practices in Geotechnical Engineering** - Techniques for eco-friendly ground improvement and geotechnical sustainability. 10. **Capstone Project in Geotechnical Engineering** - Real-world project involving geotechnical analysis, foundation design, or site investigation. **Assessment Methods:** - Laboratory experiments and soil testing projects. - Site investigation reports and geotechnical analysis assignments. - Case studies on geotechnical failures and remediation techniques. - Internships with construction firms, geotechnical consultancies, or research institutions. **Recommended Textbooks:** - "Principles of Geotechnical Engineering" by Braja M. Das. - "Soil Mechanics in Engineering Practice" by Karl Terzaghi and Ralph B. Peck. - "Foundation Engineering Handbook" by Robert W. Day. **Prerequisites:** Strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and civil engineering principles is recommended. **Major Duration:** Typically 3–4 years, including coursework, lab work, and field studies. **Target Audience:** Aspiring civil engineers, geotechnical specialists, and construction professionals seeking expertise in soil mechanics, foundation design, and earth structure analysis. This major equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to address geotechnical challenges in construction, infrastructure, and environmental engineering.