Structural Engineering and Architecture MEng

Core modules:

Mathematics and Python Programming

This module aims to reinforce and extend students' previous knowledge of mathematics studied before university, and introduces the use of computer programming to solve engineering and mathematical problems. 

Mathematics is further taught to develop new basic mathematical techniques needed to support the engineering subjects taken at levels 1 and 2. It also provides a foundation for the level 2 mathematics courses in the department. Combined with the mathematics teaching, this module teaches the opensource programming language, Python, which can be used to efficiently solve a variety of practical scientific and numerical problems. 

A combination of formal lecture content, tutorials and assisted computer lab sessions, help the students learn and apply mathematical and programming theory. Practice problems are presented showing the links between mathematics and programming learning, to show how the skills learnt can solve practical problems of relevance to the students.

20 credits

Engineering Surveying

In this module you will learn basic engineering surveying skills and the role spatial data plays in civil engineering design and construction. You will gain hands-on experience in using different types of surveying equipment and in basic manipulation of spatial data. You'll gain key transferable skills in metrology and checking data accuracy.

10 credits

Civil and Structural Engineering Mechanics

This module is delivered in both the Autumn and Spring Semesters. Teaching in the first semester is designed to provide a basis of knowledge and understanding of elastic structural analysis and will be applied to two key structural forms - trusses and beams. The focus of the second semester is on the analysis of stress, strain and elastic deformation of beams.

20 credits

Environment and Technology 1

The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio. This module presents principles of planet and place including:

-  climate literacy and climate justice, building in the era of the climate emergency

-  principles of regenerative design and ecology

-  historical overview of solar architecture

10 credits

Environment and Technology 2

The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio.

This module (ALA104) and the preceding module (ALA103) are paired thematically and present principles of planet and place, including in this module:

- designing with site and context

- designing with climate and microclimate

- designing with passive solar principles

- designing with air and water

- designing with materials and layers

10 credits

Soil Mechanics

This module is an introductory module to the use of soils in engineering practice. As soils are a naturally varying material, the creation of different soil types is first discussed giving the student a background in why soils differ. This then progresses into the engineering classification of soils followed by the design of simple geotechnical structures. These include retaining walls and earth embankments.

10 credits

Humanities 1

ALA105 explores the reciprocal relationship between architecture, the built environment and society, introducing a broad range of inhabitations and domestic settings across the world and across time. Through a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach lectures will examine how humans have approached their needs for shelter and inhabitation, and the relationship between domestic types and public life, both in the past and in the present. The course seeks to establish that architecture is socially contextualised through style, symbolic references, typologies, use, materiality, meaning, structure, layout, and form, and also through the framing of human activities and rituals. By adopting a global approach the course engages with broader questions of locality, exchange, and architecture's adaptability.

10 credits

Humanities 2

ALA106 examines how the field of architecture is positioned in relation to its wider contexts - in particular, climate breakdown. Neither architecture nor climate are simply technical phenomena: both are social, political, and cultural; both raise questions about resources, land, economics, labour, policy, infrastructure, and more. We will explore these entanglements starting from a series of building case studies, and moving outwards to explore the wider material and immaterial networks that constitute architecture and climate. You will begin to position yourself in relation to these and other networks, and reflect on how you might encounter them in your future. Lectures will relate the physical making of the modern world to political, social, and other constructions.

The module will introduce histories and theories of architecture yet emphasise an interdisciplinary approach that mobilises knowledge and methods from across the humanities. It aims to contribute to your development as a critical thinker and researcher and help you both define your own personal agendas and tools and evolve informed and rigorous arguments in both words and images.

10 credits

Introduction to Structural Materials Engineering

This lecture course focusses on materials for structural applications and covers all the main classes of materials (ceramics, metals, polymers, natural materials and composites), describing the properties that they show, the root cause of their properties, the structure, and how we can affect this by processing to get the properties we want. The course will also introduce some ways that the best material for a purpose can be selected.

10 credits

Global Engineering Challenge Week

The Faculty-wide Global Engineering Challenge Week is a compulsory part of the first-year programme. The project has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills as well as widen their horizons as global citizens. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of 5-6, for a full week, all students in the Faculty choose from a number of projects arranged under a range of themes including Water, Waste Management, Energy and Digital with scenarios set in an overseas location facing economic challenge. Some projects are based on the Engineers Without Borders Engineering for people design challenge*.

*The EWB challenge provides students with the opportunity to learn about design, teamwork and communication through real, inspiring, sustainable and cross-cultural development projects identified by EWB with its community-based partner organisations.

Sustainable Design and Engineering Skills

This module is designed to ensure students have the skills to design solutions and assess options against sustainability criteria to make evidence based recommendations. Students will be able to look at the bigger picture of a projects impact on our complex systems and society.

10 credits

Core modules:

Architectural Design 2

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: widen perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design

30 credits

Architectural Design 1 (Dual Architecture and Engineering)

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: introduce the perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design.

20 credits

Structural Analysis

This module is designed to improve your knowledge understanding of how elastic and plastic methods of structural analysis can be applied to various structural forms. The module will be delivered via lectures, supported by problem-solving, and computer and laboratory classes. You will develop your ability to analyse structures under working and ultimate loads, by hand and via computer.

20 credits

Structural Engineering Design and Appraisal

This module will discuss the fundamental principles of structural engineering philosophy and design. The theories and concepts of analysis and design of structural elements will be presented for the most commonly used structural materials and discussed along with the more prescriptive design rules included in the relevant Eurocodes.

20 credits

Further Civil Engineering Mathematics and Computing

This module is part of a series of second-level modules designed for the particular group of engineers shown in brackets in the module title. Each module consolidates previous mathematical knowledge and new mathematical techniques relevant to the particular engineering discipline.

10 credits

Geotechnical Engineering 2a

This module is aimed at extending your knowledge of soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering. The focus is on applying fundamental understanding of mechanics to geotechnical problem solving with an emphasis on fluid-soil interaction. The approach is designed to link soil mechanics theory (e.g. seepage, consolidation and settlement) to practical application (e.g. deformation of foundations) through the use of physical models and case studies. The course will encompass lectures, tutorials, group work including laboratories, and directed and independent reading.

10 credits

Materials for Structural Engineering

This module looks at the role of materials and materials properties used for structural design. The module will be delivered using a combination of lectures, on-line learning initiatives and group-based practicals.

The module aims to introduce you to a variety of materials used for structural applications. You will be exposed to materials selection, mechanics and physical principles responsible for specific materials being utilised to meet specific design requirements. A range of test methods for materials properties will be discussed, as well as, non-destructive methods used for assessing quality and the extent of defects in materials.

10 credits

Engineering - You're Hired

The Faculty-wide Engineering - You're Hired Week is a compulsory part of the second year programme, and the week has been designed to develop student academic, transferable and employability skills. Working in multi-disciplinary groups of about six, students will work in interdisciplinary teams on a real world problem over an intensive week-long project. The projects are based on problems provided by industrial partners, and students will come up with ideas to solve them and proposals for a project to develop these ideas further.

Core modules:

Architectural Design 4

ALA224 follows on directly from ALA223.  Together they form an integrated sequence of projects for the second year design studio course.  ALA224 continues the practical architectural design work of ALA223, but concentrates on the design of a medium-sized public building, including the integration of technical and environmental elements.

30 credits

Project Design 53

ALA214 is a course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the experience of the first year design studio. The scale of projects addressed increases from those encountered in the first year architectural design with more complex briefs. Consideration is given to the issues of sustainability, the relation of buildings to their urban context and the design of outside spaces. The technical aspects of the work aim to further develop an understanding of building structure, construction, materials and services in relation to the overall design concept.

20 credits

Advanced Structural Analysis

Advanced Structural Analysis aims to teach you the most modern theories suitable for performing the static assessment of structural members subjected to in-service multiaxial loading. Initially, this module focuses on the linear-elastic behaviour of structural members loaded in torsion as well as in bending. The fundamental equations modelling the behaviour of beams under the above loading conditions are derived by following rigorous mathematical procedures. The module examines also those equivalent stresses (such as von Mises, Tresca, etc.) commonly used in situation of practical interest do design structural members against complex systems of forces and moments. Finally, the problem of designing notched structural members against multiaxial static loading is addressed in great detail by considering both ductile and brittle materials.

10 credits

Advanced Structural Design and Appraisal

This module takes students through the structural design process, based around a case study of a real building.
The process initially looks at options for gravity load-bearing elements, (such as floor slabs, beams and columns) as well as options for lateral load resisting systems (such as reinforced concrete shear walls / cores and steel bracing frames), before carrying out analysis and design of the selected options.
The module also looks at key considerations such as fire, robustness and vibration.
This module is intended to prepare students for carrying out the analysis and design of structures in the 'Integrated Design Project' (IDP).

10 credits

Construction Project Management

This module is designed to introduce students to key factors that influence the development and management of construction projects throughout their lifecycle and various key construction management processes/ techniques / tools that can be used to plan, co-ordinate and control project development. It will also introduce professional and legal responsibilities of industry practitioners. The module will involve research, evaluation and discussion of industry information on issues such as construction project procurement, project planning, health and safety risk management, project risks and technological developments in the construction industry. The module will be assessed through group presentations and an individual reflective report.

10 credits

Environment and Technology 3

The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio. 

This module (ALA203) and the following module (ALA204) are paired thematically and present principles of building and resources, including in this module:

-  principles of building structures and foundations, materials for structure

-  embodied energy (embodied carbon) in structures, structural design using low-carbon, low-environmental-impact, recycled and renewable materials

-  barrier free design (accessibility) and design for fire safety

10 credits

Environment and Technology 4

The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio. 

This module (ALA204) and the preceding module (ALA203) are paired thematically and present principles of building and resources, including in this module:

-  principles of building envelope design, building materials, exterior and interior finishes

-  embodied energy (embodied carbon) in envelope design and building finishes, options for low-carbon, low-environmental-impact, recycled and renewable materials

10 credits

Humanities 3

This module consolidates the production of architecture through buildings and designs with the production of disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge, with a particular overall focus on the contemporary condition.

10 credits

Humanities 4

This module covers a wide-ranging cultural and political history of architecture and its relationship between changing states of society, the development of urban culture and institutions, and the growth of knowledge and ideas. The module pivots between scientific knowledge and artistic and cultural development, and is intended to help students from both scientific, social sciences and arts and humanities backgrounds to begin to make connections and understand the broader context within which architecture is set.

10 credits

Core modules:

Independent Research Project for Structural Engineering And Architecture

The MEng individual final year research project is a major piece of investigative research in a subject that is not of a routine nature that will enable students to gain expertise in investigative techniques and understanding research methods. It is intended to be intellectually challenging. It is expected that during their research, students will develop and exhibit competence in the following: defining a problem, researching and critically analysing information and data, problem solving, writing a report, and discussing and defending their findings. Students are also expected to take initiative, to plan / organise their own programme of research, to work independently and to display originality and creativity.

30 credits

Architectural Design 6 (Dual Architecture & Engineering)

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the lessons learnt in the second and third year design studio. The studio based design projects involve schemes of greater complexity than previously, with emphasis placed on the integration of knowledge gained during the three year course. Projects focus on the importance of physical context, introduce a wider range of building types, and require analytical studies relating to urban design, precedents and philosophical approaches. The associated technical studies closely relate to the design projects and are seen as an integral part of the design process.

20 credits

Project Design 55

A course of studio based practical architectural design work which builds on the lessons learnt in the second and third year design studio. The studio based design projects involve schemes of greater complexity than previously, with emphasis placed on the integration of knowledge gained during the three year course. Projects focus on the importance of physical context, introduce a wider range of building types, and require analytical studies relating to urban design, precedents and philosophical approaches. The associated technical studies closely relate to the design projects and are seen as an integral part of the design process.

20 credits

Architecture and Structural Systems

This module explores through design work the idea of advanced structural systems - structures that not only carry the loads but also fulfil the intended architectural expression in terms of achieving spatial, aesthetic, social and cultural aspirations. Through guest speakers, tutorials and design work the module aims to investigate the manner in which structural knowledge can be used to achieve design aspirations, and how this influences the design process, the final design outcome, the construction process and the constructed reality.

10 credits

Environment and Technology 5

The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio.

This module (ALA348) and the following module (ALA311) are paired thematically and present principles of people and comfort, including in this module:

Human comfort, human experience and architectural spatial qualities regarding lighting, daylighting and thermal perceptionAn understanding of passive heating, cooling and ventilation of buildings considering operational energy (operational carbon)

Note that ALA348 is accompanied by sister-modules ALA304 (for ALA students) and ALA303 (for MAC students), which share content and assessment at the point of delivery. ALA311 is similarly accompanied by the sister-module ALA305 (for MAC students).

10 credits

Environment and Technology 6 (MAC)

This module is a sister-module of the main Environment and Technology 6 module (ALA311) and has been designed specifically for students undertaking a dual-honours programme combining studies in Architecture and Engineering (MAC).

ALA305 and ALA311 are delivered jointly and there are no additional principles presented for MAC students.

The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio.

The ALA311 module and the preceding module (ALA348 and its sister-modules, ALA304 and ALA303) are paired thematically and present principles of people and comfort, including in this module:

- building services, passive and active building systems

- integrated design of structure and services with building envelope

- fire safety

- acoustic comfort

- embodied energy and retrofit

This module is also the culmination of the series of undergraduate modules in Environment and Technology and presents principles of how the various considerations are brought together within a holistic environmental and technical strategy.

10 credits

Civil Engineering Research Proposal

This module consists a self-contained 5 credit element on research skills. The primary learning objective to produce a research proposal to support the semester 2 (MEng) individual research projects. This module is essentially 5 credit of time for you to prepare this research proposal. There is no taught content but you should meet regularly with your supervisor and refer to the relevant handbooks and briefs. Module assessment is based on a research proposal.

5 credits

Optional modules:

Structural Dynamics and Applications to Vibration Design

This module is designed to provide students with a systematic knowledge and understanding of structural dynamics and its applications in Civil Engineering. On successful completion of this module, students will be able to perform calculation and analyse vibration response of single-degree-of-freedom and multi-degree-of-freedom systems and apply simple structural dynamics theory to solve practical problems in vibration engineering design.

15 credits

Parametric Modelling and Computational Design

Parametric design involves a workflow that allows for changes in key model parameters to be observed rapidly, generally in a computer aided design workspace. It provides the designer with immense design and analysis freedom when undertaking tasks that would be repetitive or not feasible to perform manually. It also allows for a rapid exploration of the design space at the initial conceptual stage of a project. It can also be used in conjunction with optimisation methods and other computational design techniques to automatically generate candidate designs, taking advantage of the vast computational resource available in a modern PC. This module provides lectures describing the fundamentals underpinning parametric modelling and computational design techniques and gives you hands-on experience of modelling and optimising engineering structures using the Rhino modelling software and the inbuilt Grasshopper visual programming environment.

15 credits

Reuse of Existing Structures

The main focus of most Civil and Structural Engineering programmes is on how to design new buildings and structures, which fails to address the reality that many practicing Structural Engineers also work on existing buildings and structures. Furthermore, it is out of step with Society's efforts to address the climate emergency, and the current focus on reusing existing buildings and structures wherever possible. This module is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to assess existing buildings and structures, in terms of their materials, condition and structural behaviour / capacity, in order to develop sustainable solutions which extend the life of buildings and structures, thereby addressing some of the climate emergency challenges currently facing society .The module assessment will comprise a single piece of group coursework, involving the evaluation of an existing building or structure, and the development of detailed proposals for its reuse. 50% of the module grade will be based solely on the sections of the report / calculations / drawings / risk assessments which an individual student contributed to (with no peer assessment applied), whilst the remaining 50% will be based on the whole submission (with peer assessment applied).

15 credits