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651-4033-00L 4 Credits MSC D-ERDW
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Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Martin Stolz, Prof. Dr. Jordan Aaron
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:36:09

Abstract

The course presents the principles of soil mechanics and soil behaviour characteristics and its applications in geotechnical structures and systems. It is based on more descriptive courses on Engineering Geology within the BSc Geol. Program and is a compulsory prerequisite for other courses within the MSc Eng. Geol. program.

Objective

Understanding the principles of soil behaviour and the fundamentals of geotechnical practices in soils. Ability to communicate with geotechnical engineers.

Content

Soil Mechanics: Fundamental concepts of strength and deformation of different soils. Introduction to geotechnical calculations Significance of (ground)water Geotechnical Engineering in Soils: Evaluation of geotechnical scenarios, handling of forecast uncertainities, relation of soil properties and soil composition, interactions between soil and building, standard construction methods in soils (foundations, slopes, dams and levees), requirements for the geotechnical prognosis

Resources

Lecture Notes

This lecture is supported by the textbook: "Geotechnical Engineering" by Donald P. Coduto, 2nd edition, 2011; ISBN-13: 978-0-13-135425-8

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
The performance assessments for this course are graded as follows:80% final exam, 5% excursion report, 15% exercises (7 graded exercises, equally spaced throughout the semester)

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering
Permission from lecturers required for all students. Lecture: every Friday from 9 - 11 h Exercise and tutorial: 11 - 12 h Due to space restrictions, only 15 students will be able to attend the lectures in person, and priority will be given to students in the Masters of Engineering Geology. For questions, please contact Jordan Aaron
  • Fri 09:15-11:00 (NO D 11)
  • Fri 11:15-12:00 (NO D 11)
3 h weekly

Offered In