Geotechnical, Geoenvironmental and Geosynthetics Engineering

Geotechnical Engineering deals with problems of building on, in, or with the most abundant construction material --- soil. Principles are applied to an array of infrastructure projects such as structural foundations, roadway embankments and in land development and water resource facilities. Inherent in the practice is an understanding of the variabilities in soil type, distribution and properties, and the effects of water content and pressure on soil behavior and construction feasibility. Students are expected to enroll in a series of core courses including:

- Experimental Soil Mechanics
- Retaining Structures
- Deep Foundations
- Slope Stability
- Seepage & Drainage
- Geoenvironmental Engineering
- Pavement Design
- Special Topics (independent study under faculty supervision)

Student also take electives from the Geosynthetics, Geology, Water Resources, Structural Mechanics, Construction Materials, and Environmental programs.

Both Ph.D. and full and part-time M.S. programs are offered. Full time M.S. students are required to write a thesis on an approved research topic. Facilities include newly renovated geotech and soils laboratory in the Woodring Labs.

Contact Information:

Dr. Jonathan Cheng
Dr. Patricia Gallagher
Dr. Grace Hsuan
Dr. Joseph Martin