MSc Structural Engineering

Program Overview

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The Structural Engineering MSc program equips students with advanced analytical and professional skills in structural engineering. It offers a comprehensive exploration of advanced analytical and professional skills needed for planning, designing, and operating various structures utilizing diverse materials. The program emphasizes advanced research through a mandatory technical research project, aiming to equip students with the ability to analyze and resolve real-world structural engineering problems. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors of the structural engineering industry, including structural design engineers, civil engineers, and project managers.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Structural Engineering MSc

This course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and expertise necessary to specialize in the field of structural engineering. It offers a comprehensive exploration of advanced analytical and professional skills needed for planning, designing, and operating various structures utilizing diverse materials like timber, steel, concrete, and lightweight composites. The program emphasizes advanced research through a mandatory technical research project, aiming to equip students with the ability to analyze and resolve real-world structural engineering problems.

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Course Objectives:

• To equip students with advanced analytical and professional skills in structural engineering.
• To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in the design and analysis of structures using various materials.
• To develop research skills through a technical research project focusing on real-world structural engineering problems.
• To prepare students for a successful career as a structural design engineer.

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Outline:

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Curriculum Content:

• Connection Design (15 credits): This module focuses on advanced design techniques for complex steel connections, enabling students to tackle projects with greater complexities.
• Applied Finite Element Analysis (15 credits): This module delves into advanced computational methods for computer modelling and analysis, enhancing students' ability to simulate and evaluate complex engineering systems.
• Soil-Structure Interaction (15 credits): This module explores the interaction between soil and structures, equips students with the knowledge and skills to solve geotechnical engineering problems, and provides valuable insights into ground engineering principles.
• Structural Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering (15 credits): This module delves into advanced analytical methods for structural vibration analysis, with particular emphasis on earthquake engineering principles and applications.
• Plastic Theory of Structures (15 credits): This module provides advanced knowledge and expertise in the plastic analysis of structures, including steel beams, frames, and concrete slabs.
• Pre-stressed and Composite Structures (15 credits): This module focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of prestressed concrete and composite structures, providing students with a deeper understanding of their behaviour and design criteria.
• Structural Health and Performance Assessment (15 credits): This module explores the principles and techniques for assessing the health and performance of civil engineering structures, including state-of-the-art data acquisition and analysis methods.
• Integrated Project (15 credits): This module challenges students to apply their knowledge and skills to solve a real-world civil engineering problem, fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Technical Research Project (50 credits): This module is the cornerstone of the program, requiring students to conduct an independent research project under the guidance of an experienced academic supervisor.
This project allows students to delve deeper into a specific area of structural engineering and contribute to the field through original research.
• Leading Diverse Workforces (10 credits): This module develops students' leadership and management skills, equipping them to effectively lead and empower diverse teams in the modern workplace.

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Work Placement Option:

The program offers an optional work placement opportunity for those who wish to gain additional industry experience. This 12-month placement extends the duration of the program to 24 months, enabling students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world professional settings. The placement involves working with an industry partner on practical projects, gaining valuable insights into the industry and enhancing employability prospects.

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Course Structure:

The program is delivered over a period of 12 months for full-time students or 24 months for part-time students. Full-time students attend five days of tuition every two weeks, followed by independent study and assessments. Part-time teaching arrangements vary and are tailored for each cohort based on the number of applicants.

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Modules:

Each module is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of a specific area of structural engineering. Students are expected to engage in self-directed study alongside lectures and tutorials, dedicating approximately 35 hours per week to independent study.

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Assessment: The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning outcomes, including:

• Formal examinations
• Written tests
• Computer modelling assignments
• Theses
• Coursework
Assessment methods vary depending on the specific module and are designed to ensure a holistic evaluation of student knowledge, skills, and understanding.

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Teaching: The program boasts a team of experienced and qualified faculty who are actively involved in research and industry collaborations. The teaching methods employed are diverse and include:

• Interactive lectures
• Problem-solving workshops
• Individual and group tutorials
• Online classes and tutorials
• Guest lectures and seminars
The program also encourages active participation and collaborative learning through group projects and real-world case studies.

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Careers: Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors of the structural engineering industry, including:

• Structural design engineers
• Civil engineers
• Geotechnical engineers
• Construction managers
• Project managers
• Research and development engineers
The program also provides a strong foundation for further academic pursuits, such as PhD studies in structural engineering or related fields.

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Other:

• The program has been accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) for the 2024-25 intake, meeting the requirements for Further Learning for a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
• The program also holds accreditation from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), with students who successfully complete the "Leading Diverse Workforces" module receiving a CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice at no additional cost.
It is always recommended to consult the official university website and program handbook for the most accurate and current information.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• UK, Ireland , Channel Islands or Isle of Man: £11,200 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year
• £18,600 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year without EU support bursary
• International: £18,600 | £4,000 (Work placement option additional fee) per year