MSc in Geotechnical Engineering

Program Overview

MSc Geotechnical Engineering

Overview

The MSc Geotechnical Engineering program at Abertay University provides cutting-edge knowledge and technical skills needed for modern geotechnical engineering practice. The program emphasizes practical application through industry-standard software and analytical tools, including finite element analysis.

Course Detail

Start Date

September

Duration

Full-time: 12 months (Sep start) | Part-time: 24 months (Sep start)

Award Title

MSc

UCAS Code

Apply Direct

What's it all about?

Our MSc in Geotechnical Engineering provides you with cutting-edge knowledge and technical skills needed for modern geotechnical engineering practice. Whether you're looking to specialize in foundation design, offshore engineering, or sustainable ground engineering solutions, this program offers a comprehensive pathway to expertise in this vital field.

Advanced Technical Focus

You'll gain expertise in advanced site investigation techniques, geotechnical engineering design, and offshore engineering. The program emphasizes practical application through industry-standard software and analytical tools, including finite element analysis. You'll be given the opportunity to collect and analyze data through fieldwork using the Pagani TG63-150 Cone Penetration Testing apparatus. Abertay is the only university in Scotland to have this machine, providing a unique experience of advanced ground investigation techniques.

You'll complete an individual research project supervised by experts in your chosen specialization.

Industry-Connected Learning

You'll benefit from our extensive industry connections and be taught by a team with over 60 years' experience in training engineers. Our close links with industry partners ensure the program remains at the forefront of geotechnical engineering practice, whilst our strong research reputation in civil & environmental engineering within Scotland guarantees exposure to the latest developments in the field.

You'll gain the advanced skills and professional expertise needed to excel in senior geotechnical engineering roles. Whether you're looking to specialize or accelerate your career, this program provides the perfect foundation for your ambitions.

Industry Placement

Please note: you will be registered on the MSc Geotechnical Engineering, which includes a research project. All students will get the opportunity to apply to undertake an industrial placement as an alternative to the research project. Placements, subject to availability, are on a competitive basis and are subject to an application and interview with the placement provider. If successful, you will be moved on to the MSc Geotechnical Engineering with Industrial Practice.

The Benefits

• Career Advancement: Develop leadership and decision-making skills required for senior positions in the geotechnical engineering sector.
• Research Excellence: Study at a university with a high research rating in Civil & Environmental Engineering within Scotland.
• Industry Relevance: Gain practical experience with contemporary issues and emerging technologies in geotechnical engineering.
• Flexible Learning: Choose between full-time and part-time study options to suit your professional commitments.
• Specialized Expertise: Develop deep knowledge in a specific area of geotechnical engineering through your individual research project.
• Network Building: Connect with industry partners and join a community of engineering professionals.

What You Learn

• Integration of scientific and engineering principles for complex geotechnical problem-solving
• Advanced structural and geotechnical engineering concepts, including offshore applications
• Finite element analysis techniques and their practical applications
• Modern site investigation methodologies and interpretation
• Research methods and their application in geotechnical engineering
• Professional project management and risk assessment skills
• Sustainable design solutions for geotechnical challenges

Career Opportunities

A graduate of this degree can go on to work in a variety of engineering sectors, including:

• Construction and Infrastructure
• Energy
• Geohazard Management and Risk Assessment
• Environmental
• Offshore and Marine
• Transportation
• Academia and Research

Modules

• Structural Design and Geotechnical Engineering (EEM400)
• Offshore Geotechnical Engineering (EEM525)
• Health, Safety and Environmental Management (EEM500)
• Innovation in Design (EEM516)
• Finite element analysis and application (EEM519)
• Advanced Structural and Geotechnical Engineering (EEM524)
• Research Methods (ANF514)
• MSc Dissertation (EEM517)
• MSc Dissertation (Industrial Practice) EEM518

Entry Requirements

• UK Entry: The program welcomes graduates with a minimum of a second class (2:2) honors degree or equivalent in Building/Building Technology, Geotechnical Sciences, Geotechnology, Construction, Construction management, Architectural Engineering, Structural Engineering.
• International Entry: We accept a wide range of qualifications from applicants across the world. Typically, international applicants should have the equivalent of a second class (2:2) honors degree or equivalent in Building/Building Technology, Geotechnical Sciences, Geotechnology, Construction, Construction management, Architectural Engineering, Structural Engineering.

Fees & Funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you depends on factors such as your nationality, location, personal circumstances, and the course you are studying. Visit the links below and scroll down to find the Postgraduate section.

• Postgraduate student fees - Scottish Students
• Postgraduate student fees - UK Students (outside Scotland)
• Postgraduate student fees - International & EU Students

Scholarships

• Abertay Postgraduate Taught rUK Scholarship
• International Postgraduate Abertay Scholarships

Graduate School

Our Graduate School is a dedicated facility located at the heart of the University, providing support, training, and professional development opportunities to our vibrant postgraduate community and researchers.

Learn more about our Graduate School

Join us as a Postgraduate

When you join us as a postgraduate student or researcher, you'll join a community of creative like-minded scholars. You will be working in our dedicated study and social spaces - a forum in which you can meet, work, and learn with other researchers and postgraduates from across the University.

You'll benefit from training and professional development opportunities, as well as support with funding applications, placement opportunities, teaching support, public engagement, and outreach activity.