Master of Civil Engineering

AIMS

This subject will focus on how risk analysis and management principles and techniques can be applied to engineering projects. The subject introduces a range of risk analysis techniques, which are put in the context of engineering projects and analysed using the framework of the risk standard (AS ISO 31000:2018). Risk is a fundamental concept that is applied to every engineering project, whether it is ascertaining the risk of health impacts of water treatment processes, prevention of loss of life by flood mitigation projects, or catastrophic losses caused by the failure of structure in earthquakes or storms.
The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in Engineering management, but is also of relevance to a range of engineering design disciplines where design for the total life cycle of the product or infrastructure should be considered.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include: an introduction to the history of engineering failures; the forms of risk and risk identification; project risk analysis; the sociological implications of acceptable risk; approaches to risk management, monitoring for compliance, risk perception and design implications.

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AIMS

This subject introduces the basic methods of structural analysis and the design of simple structures which are built of reinforced concrete, steel, timber and masonry. A feature of this subject is the integration of the design and analytical skills in dealing with contemporary structures that have an effective blending of materials for achieving satisfactory performance and economy in construction.

This subject consolidates basic structural theory and design abilities that underpin further specialised studies in structural design in engineering masters programs. It also gives students some basic capabilities to seek work experience in the engineering profession.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include: stress analysis in beams, deflection calculations using direct integration and virtual work methods, structural analyses of beams and frames by the force method, structural design of reinforced concrete beams and columns, design of pad footing, structural design of steel beams, columns and ties, design of timber joists and masonry squat walls.

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Geotechnical Modelling and Design is a capstone subject in geotechnical engineering, focusing on strengthening fundamental soil mechanics knowledge and further expanding practical geotechnical engineering knowledge and modelling skills. Students will grasp knowledge through lectures, laboratory practicals, tutorials and computer workshops, where emphasis is paid on self-learning and problem-solving skills.

In this capstone subject, students are required to finish a practical design project by applying their knowledge to solve a number of design problems while considering multiple and sometimes conflicting design criteria which aims to strengthen their problem-solving skills. This project provides a good opportunity for the student to apply technical knowledge (e.g. soil mechanics, water seepage and slope stability analysis) and strengthen engineering design skills (e.g. problem solving approach, trade-off analysis, data management, software modelling, communications, presentation). This is to prepare the students for employment in the industry, as well as future study or research.

This subject builds on knowledge gained in subjects such as Engineering Mathematics, Fluid Mechanics and Earth Processes for Engineering and assumes familiarity with concepts of civil and geotechnical engineering. This subject also delivers introductory material for engineering graduate coursework subjects including Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Hydraulics and Quantitative Environmental Modelling.

The subject will cover topics such as basic soil mechanics, stresses in soils, effective stress principle, Coulomb failure criteria, site investigation, permeability and seepage, flow nets, the effect of seepage on stability, slope stability principles, landslides, design and remediation, trade-off analysis in engineering design, and computer modelling to solve engineering design problems.

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In this subject students will be introduced to physical earth processes and their engineering applications and implications. In particular, the subject concentrates on engineering aspects of climate, water, rocks and soils and their interactions. Simplified modelling and relevant analytical techniques are introduced throughout the subject. The students will learn about fundamental material required for later year subjects in civil, environmental and geotechnical engineering.

The subject covers topics such as climate and seasonality; carbon cycle, global water cycle and catchment water cycle; rainfall, infiltration, runoff and evapotranspiration; catchment processes and stochastic rainfall modelling; Earth structure and composition; mineral and rock properties; geological processes; soil identification and classification; soil compaction.

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The subject aims to provide knowledge about engineered materials, their properties, manufacturing processes and key issues associated with their applications in engineering. The subject also introduces the relationships between the structure of a material and its properties.
This subject provides an introduction to modelling the stresses and deformations that occur when axial, torsional and flexural loads are applied to materials in static equilibrium.
This subject must be taken early in the progression of training to be an engineer as it is a prerequisite of structural design subjects, and contributes valuable insights into the role of materials in other disciplines of engineering such as geotechnical engineering.

Please view this video for further information: Engineering Materials and Mechanics

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Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering focuses on sustainable design, and the creation of engineering solutions minimising impact on the environment while maximising societal benefit. A series of guest lectures from well-known domain experts, will highlight contemporary and future demands on infrastructure, exploring holistic engineering solutions.

In concert with these guest lectures, the foundations and methods of sustainability assessment will be established such as the engineering metrics functionality or longevity. Environmental, economic and social assessment methods will be introduced, widening the awareness of the overall impact and side effects of engineering projects. Selecting indicators and measuring them on carefully established scales, students will gain a holistic understanding of the complexities of – and potential trade-offs in – decision-making, including considerations of social equity, quality of life and wellbeing. Techniques like life-cycle analysis, material (flow) balance, and footprint analysis will be introduced together with transferable skills like technical report writing. In parallel, students will learn about the influential role that infrastructure plays in shaping communities, both short-term and long-term, in a staged design project.

This subject is essential for students in an infrastructure engineering discipline – civil engineering, digital infrastructure engineering, or environmental engineering. It is also relevant to students with an interest in an environmental, economic or social domain who seek to better understand the role of the engineered built environment in their discipline.

Please view this video for further information: Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering

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AIMS

This subject covers topics required to understand systems involving fluids, both in motion and at rest, and their application in engineered systems. These include dams, pipes, open channels, pumps and both liquid and gaseous flow, with relevance to civil, mechanical, infrastructure and environmental engineering contexts. Students will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of how fluids behave and how this can be applied to solve engineering challenges. Topics covered include - Fluid statics, manometry, derivation of the continuity equation, mechanical energy balance, friction losses in a straight pipe, Newton’s law of viscosity, treatment of pipe roughness, valves and fittings; simple pipe network problems; principles of open channel flow; compressible flow, propagation of pressure wave, isothermal and adiabatic flow equations in a pipe, choked flow. Pumps – pump characteristics, centrifugal pumps, derivation of theoretical head, head losses leading to the actual pump head curve, calculating system head, determining the operating point of a pumping system, throttling for flow control, cavitation and NPSH, affinity laws and pump scale-up, introduction to positive displacement pumps; Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, Multi-dimensional fluid flow-momentum flux, development of multi-dimensional equations of continuity and for momentum transfer, Navier-Stokes equations, application to tube flow, Couette flow, Stokes flow.

Please view this video for further information: Fluid Mechanics

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This subject introduces important mathematical methods required in engineering such as manipulating vector differential operators, computing multiple integrals and using integral theorems. A range of ordinary and partial differential equations are solved by a variety of methods and their solution behaviour is interpreted. The subject also introduces series including the concepts of convergence and divergence.

Topics include: Vector calculus, including Gauss’ and Stokes’ Theorems; systems of homogeneous ordinary differential equations, including phase plane and linearisation for nonlinear systems; Laplace transforms; series, including Taylor series and power series; Fourier series and Fourier integrals; second order partial differential equations and separation of variables.

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AIMS

Characterisation of sites is an important step in civil engineering study or design. In order to devise a design for an engineering project a range of contextual factors need to be determined. These include intrinsic aspects of natural and anthropogenic history, such as geological context and former industrial use as well as its environmental considerations. The engineering properties of ground needs to be assessed and understood for the purpose of development. Extrinsic impacts on the site such as the risk of fire, extreme wind loads and earthquake also need to be well understood.

This subject will examine typical technical tools for characterising a site for infrastructure development, covering a range of the above aspects that are relevant to the site and development. In doing so students will learn the skills and an approach to conduct site assessments, including the ability to select the appropriate geo-environmental tools for site investigations.

This subject is part of a trio of subjects that consider different aspects of infrastructure projects; Engineering Site Characterisation studies how to determine the character of a site for a infrastructure project, Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering examines how the project relates to the broader social, political, economic and environmental context, while Engineering Project Implementation concentrates on the operational aspects of implementing a project. Together they form the basis of further professional infrastructure engineering subjects. Students who have completed this subject will have valuable skills to gain engineering work experience.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Basic principles of engineering geology, Site Investigation Techniques, Ground Models (different types of models from conceptual to observational and analytical), The Engineering Geology of Melbourne (and Victoria), GeoHazards (different types, typical geohazards, case studies, risk assessment and risk register), Rock Engineering, Geotechnical site investigations, natural disaster characterisation (fire, wind, earthquakes), introduction to surveying and levelling, in situ testing (soil), geophysical testing and fieldwork, groundwater investigation and exposure to laboratory testing (compaction, permeability and strength).

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Project management provides an organisation with powerful tools that improve its ability to plan, organise and manage resources to bring about the successful completion of specific project goals and objectives. In undertaking this subject students will explore the principles and distinct technical skills of engineering management that are needed to implement a project. The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in engineering project management, but is also of relevance to a range of engineering design disciplines where design for the total life cycle of the product or infrastructure should be considered.

Topics covered include key aspects of the management principles, project planning & scheduling, management systems & control and management practices to enable execution of the project in a timely and financially prudent manner.

Note: This subject has been integrated with the Skills Towards Employment Program (STEP) and contains activities that can assist in the completion of the Engineering Practice Hurdle (EPH).

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This subject introduces advanced methods of structural analysis and design, and their applications to the engineering of reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete and structural steel in compliance with the standards. Students will be given the opportunity to integrate the use of different materials into the design of contemporary structures through design projects. This subject would typically be the final subject in the sequence of structural engineering subjects for civil engineering students who do not want to specialise in structural engineering.

Topics covered include structural analyses of beams and frames by the stiffness matrix method; finite element analyses; computer analysis using commercial software package; structural design of reinforced concrete and prestressed concrete elements; structural design of steel elements; consideration of sustainability in structural design.

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AIMS

Soil and rock are among the most important civil engineering materials. They form the foundations of all structures, can be rearranged to provide a topography to suit particular needs like embankments for road and railways, can form a structure in its own right when used for levee banks or dam walls, or may need to be removed to allow access such as with tunnels and cuttings. Students completing this unit should understand how to make simplifications to complex soil conditions, how to establish strength/deformation characteristics of the soil and how to apply fundamental geomechanics knowledge learned in earlier units to solve various geotechnical engineering applications topics, including problems involving the stability of an earth mass for these various situations and introducing the design of shallow foundations. Graduates from this subject will be able to work under the guidance of a chartered engineer to design and supervise construction of a range of geotechnical structures such as shallow foundations, embankments, and retaining walls.

This subject builds directly on knowledge from a range of undergraduate and postgraduate subjects in the areas of mathematics, statistics, earth processes, and fluid mechanics. It also draws on knowledge of sustainability and management to provide context for problems.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include a review of pore-water pressures and effective stress, soil strength and compressibility (direct shear and triaxial testing, and others), consolidation, shallow foundations (bearing capacity and settlement), rigid and flexible earth retaining structures, reinforced soil walls, and introduction to geothermal energy.

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AIMS

Students that successfully completely this subject will have the skills to practice under a chartered engineer to analyse problems and propose designs in the field of civil and environmental hydraulic engineering. Analysis of water flow in natural and constructed channels is studied in the river hydraulics module. This gives students the fundamental tools to learn techniques such as flood prediction, the design of channels for water movement in irrigation, and the prediction of water levels in channels in environmental flow studies. The movement of water and sediment along coasts due to wave action and currents is the focus of the coastal hydraulics module. An understanding of wave processes in coastal and surf zones is an essential starting point for the design of coastal structures such as piers, groins and jetties. With impending sea level rise, this will be a significant area of civil engineering practice for the foreseeable future. In the third module, the focus will be on processes of sediment transport and geomorphological change in rivers and coastal waters. The ability to analyse these processes can lead to graduates working in the area of river engineering, where for example the erosion of sediment from bridge abutments must be controlled. It is also important in ecological modelling where the movement of sediments and entrainment in water can impact on the habitat of stream biota.

The subject will draw on students’ existing knowledge of fluid mechanics, systems modelling, statistics, engineering mathematics and geomorphology gained from undergraduate or other preparatory study.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

1. River Hydraulics: revision of basic concepts of steady-state open channel flow and extend this with applications in natural river channels, time dependent behaviour and flood hydraulics
2. Coastal Hydraulics: basic wave theory and processes including in the surf zone
3. Sediment Transport and Water Quality: mechanisms and models of particulate and solute transport in rivers and coastal environments.

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This subject focuses on the “physical” and “digital” infrastructures of transport systems. This includes not just the infrastructure that facilitates the efficient and safe movement of passenger cars, but also the design and planning concepts related to multimodal transport options and new technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and connected transport systems. As such in addition to highway geometric design, pavement design, bridge, and tunnel design, this subject would also include public transport infrastructure design, intelligent transport systems, and connected and automated vehicle infrastructures of the future. This subject presents a comprehensive introduction to transport careers and multidisciplinary opportunities for students after graduation.

This subject delivers a coherent plan to integrate transport engineering effectively with the most relevant geotechnical and structural engineering components of transport infrastructure. The syllabus includes:

• Highway geometric design
• Public transport planning and design
• Digital infrastructure of transport
• Pavement design
• Structural design of bridges and tunnels

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This subject prepares graduate engineers to practice basic marketing in the engineering profession where there is a mutual need and reliance upon their training and skills in both engineering and marketing to satisfy the needs, wants and demands of the market, internally within the organisation, and through the entire supply chain in a sustainable manner.

This subject provides an introduction to the basic concepts of marketing, marketing management and marketing engineering. Some of the principal topics include: what is marketing engineering; differences between engineering and consumer products; designing and managing engineering services; sales engineer and managing sales force; online marketing and the internet of things; business-to-business markets; business-to-government markets; company orientation; corporate division and strategic planning; market positioning, segmentation and targeting; marketing mix (product, pricing, place and promotion); marketing plan and strategies; SWOT analysis, understand the legal, economic, sociocultural, natural and technological environments; distribution channels; communications, models and simulations; decision tools; databases and data mining, forecasting; theory and evidence-based decision making; etc. The principles of sustainability will apply throughout the subject.

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The aim of this subject is to provide students with an introduction to urban traffic engineering and transport planning principles. General theory as well as analytical techniques for solving common transport engineering and modelling problems are presented. The key theme in this subject is how to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems. This includes basics of traffic flow theory, simulation, and operation models, and understanding and predicting travel demand in urban transport networks. Behavioural choice modelling methods are used with real data from the Melbourne Metropolitan Area to predict demand for all modes of transport including public transport and non-motorised transport modes. The concepts of accessibility, efficiency and sustainability are introduced in the context of urban transport systems, and transport safety measures and best practices are also introduced.

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The aim of this subject is to provide students with an introduction to urban traffic engineering and transport planning principles. General theory as well as analytical techniques for solving common transport engineering and modelling problems are presented. The key theme in this subject is how to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems. This includes basics of traffic flow theory, simulation, and operation models, and understanding and predicting travel demand in urban transport networks. Behavioural choice modelling methods are used with real data from the Melbourne Metropolitan Area to predict demand for all modes of transport including public transport and non-motorised transport modes. The concepts of accessibility, efficiency and sustainability are introduced in the context of urban transport systems, and transport safety measures and best practices are also introduced.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The aim of this subject is to provide students with an introduction to urban traffic engineering and transport planning principles. General theory as well as analytical techniques for solving common transport engineering and modelling problems are presented. The key theme in this subject is how to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems. This includes basics of traffic flow theory, simulation, and operation models, and understanding and predicting travel demand in urban transport networks. Behavioural choice modelling methods are used with real data from the Melbourne Metropolitan Area to predict demand for all modes of transport including public transport and non-motorised transport modes. The concepts of accessibility, efficiency and sustainability are introduced in the context of urban transport systems, and transport safety measures and best practices are also introduced.

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This subject introduces students to the structural design and analysis of prestressed concrete and timber structures with applications to multi-storey buildings and other infrastructures in compliance with the Standards. This subject will build on the knowledge from CVEN30009 Structural Theory and Design and CVEN90049 Structural Theory and Design 2, particularly on the fundamental behaviour of structural elements under flexural, shear and axial load.
This subject will also expose students to emerging technology to achieve more sustainable structures. Students will also explore various techniques to evaluate a structural design from a sustainability perspective.
Students who complete this subject are likely to find employment in design consultancy or concrete construction companies and work under the supervision of a senior engineer.

The subject covers topics such as design of partially prestressed concrete beams; High performance concrete; Design against physical and chemical attack of concrete structures; Design of engineered timber structures, Design for low carbon emission; and Life-cycle analysis and circular economy.

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The aim of this subject is to provide students with an introduction to urban traffic engineering and transport planning principles. General theory as well as analytical techniques for solving common transport engineering and modelling problems are presented. The key theme in this subject is how to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems. This includes basics of traffic flow theory, simulation, and operation models, and understanding and predicting travel demand in urban transport networks. Behavioural choice modelling methods are used with real data from the Melbourne Metropolitan Area to predict demand for all modes of transport including public transport and non-motorised transport modes. The concepts of accessibility, efficiency and sustainability are introduced in the context of urban transport systems, and transport safety measures and best practices are also introduced.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject involves students learning the integrated process between design and construction by developing a proposal for a design & build project. An objective of the project is to help students explore the close relationship between design, constructability and construction. Students will develop a simplified design for an infrastructure project that includes a range of civil works such as basements, pavement and earthworks, foundations, drainage, level crossing removal projects, bridge construction and cranage, and then propose solutions for construction that may require iteration of the design. The proposed solution would also address OH&S, environmental, and social sustainability issues inherent in areas such waste minimisation, noise and dust control in a project environmental management plan.

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This subject explores skills required for transport planners who wish to improve the economic, environmental and social performance of urban transport systems. It draws on international experience and research to articulate the principles and practical techniques in two key areas:

• Public transport planning and network design; and
• The preparation of regional multi-modal transport plans.

This subject includes a half-day field trip involving use of public transport services in a chosen suburban region of Melbourne. This trip will be undertaken in small groups in week 3 and is a hurdle requirement. Students will require a valid Myki card, and the cost will not exceed a daily ticket in Zone 1.

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This is a geotechnical engineering subject in which students will be introduced to various geotechnical engineering application topics, including the design of pile foundations, tunnels and earth dams, basics of rock mechanics, rock slope stability assessment and site characterisation. This subject is of particular interest to students intending to establish a career in geotechnical engineering; it is also relevant to a range of engineering disciplines in which a good knowledge of geotechnical engineering offers an advantage, such as structural engineering.

The subject covers pile foundations – Various pile types available in the construction field and their installation and load bearing mechanisms, design of a single pile and a pile group with considering the bearing capacity and settlement failures, rock socketed piles, laterally loaded piles, micro piles and ground improvement techniques for piling; Basic rock mechanics – Rock stresses and strength, rock failure principles, rock testing; Rock slope assessment – Apply the theories of rock mechanics on slope stability assessment; Site characterisation for foundations – Planning and implementation of a site investigation; Tunneling- Key factors in tunnel design and design processes; Earth dam design – Different types of earth Dams and their functions, key design concepts.

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There is increasing recognition around the world of the threats facing urban environments and their water resources. In many cities water demand is approaching or exceeding limits of sustainability, leading to increasing interest in alternative water sources, such as stormwater harvesting, wastewater recycling and desalination. At the same time, receiving environments such as urban streams and bays are threatened by pollution and erosion from stormwater runoff, or eutrophication due to discharge of poorly-treated wastewater. There is also increasing recognition of the importance of water in the urban landscape, and of its role in the welfare and health of humans.

The concept of “water sensitive urban design” (WSUD), also known as Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) has developed in response to these changes. It aims to better integrate water into the urban landscape, improving the sustainability and liveability of cities (for example through the sustaining of health urban vegetation), while securing adequate resources for growing cities.

This subject reflects the integration inherent in WSUD. The course will teach you about the individual urban water cycle components (water supply, wastewater, stormwater, groundwater), but will primary focus on their interactions and integration, and particularly their interaction with the built and natural environment.

The subject includes a mix of lectures and project-based learning, including a major project (broken up into stages throughout the semester), a full-day excursion and workshops involving leading WSUD experts from public and private industry. The subject will cover:

1. An introduction to WSUD (its principles, objectives, context within other urban planning and sustainability policy & practice) in developed and developing countries
2. Water in the urban landscape, the urban water cycle and its component characteristics
3. Social, environmental and economic impacts of urban water management
4. Structural tools and techniques (conceptual design, operation, maintenance)
5. Non-structural tools and techniques
6. Choice of scales
7. Analysis methods (water balance calculations, water end-use analysis)
8. Lifecycle cost analysis and multi-criteria evaluation frameworks
9. Design tools and software (e.g. MUSIC, Urban Developer, House Water Expert)
10. Institutional and implementation issues
11. Integration between water and other urban design elements

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AIMS

In this subject students will learn about how to evaluate the feasibility of a project and then to define, structure and organise the initial planning phase for both construction projects and complex projects (e.g. IT, high technology projects). The interaction between commercial expectations and project management approaches will be considered broadly based on process and systems thinking. The subject builds on and integrates knowledge from CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering and/or MCEN90010 Finance and Human Resources for Engineers where the fundamentals of economic appraisal is described, the planning approaches detailed in subject CVEN90045 Engineering Project Implementation and the fundamentals of risk management for which detailed approaches are provided in MULT90014 Business Risk Management. The subject is particularly important for students wishing to understand how to structure and scope projects such that they are well planned on the basis of triple bottom line thinking and the project management processes are efficiently structured.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Techniques considered include the use of logic maps, business cases and system based project management concepts. Details include the development of acquisition strategies, system life-cycle, boundaries, scope management and mechanisms to control of client expectations and assist them to make sound project decisions leading to the sanctioning of a project. Expected value and Monte Carlo techniques are used as tools to refine project decisions based on risk evaluation.

Project governance arrangements are considered along with cultural context, resourcing requirements of a project and how this is organised and managed. Specific areas considered include the selection of consultants or contractors, communication processes, industrial relations, occupational health and safety, meetings, delegation and leadership.

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Critical Communication for Engineers (CCE) addresses the skills vital for professional success. Problem analysis skills and being able to present solutions effectively to your engineering peers, leaders and the broader community are a powerful combination. These are the focus of CCE.

They are challenging skills to learn—and you will likely work to improve them throughout your career. Effective communication is not merely about how to write a report or to give a formal presentation. Developing a strong argument—having something insightful to communicate—is essential for capturing the attention of an audience. This requires developing good interpersonal skills for gathering information and testing ideas.

The subject is divided into four ‘topics’ presented in sequence through the semester. Each topic is self-contained and dedicated to a different engineering issue. There is an assessment for each topic, meaning that you will be able to apply what you have learned from one topic to the following topics. This way, you will have a lot of opportunities to practise and develop your analytical and communication skills.

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A central innovation task is to identify the real problem that lies beneath the surface-level symptoms. Another is to find the best solution to that underlying problem. Professional work is often the same. Clearly defined tasks can frequently be delegated to a machine or a technician. Furthermore, because innovation problems are big and messy, we often need diverse teams to solve them. This subject aims to give you theoretical frameworks, practical insights, and preliminary skills to solve ambiguous problems and to work successfully in teams.

You will develop these understandings, insights and skills by working on two projects.  In the first, your multi-disciplinary team, supported by a mentor, will propose an innovation that helps a partner (industry, hospital, not-for-profit, start-up, the University) address a strategic challenge.  Through that project, you will learn the “what and how” of delivering innovation-like projects – understanding the relationship between your challenge and the organisation’s strategy; designing, securing, and conducting interviews; analysing qualitative data to generate insights; ideation and creativity techniques to create value; stakeholder management; working in an intense team on an ambiguous problem; visual and oral communication.  In the second, you will develop the ability to apply to the same concepts to yourself – How will you know what you want and need?   How will you know if you need to change?  How will you innovate yourself as your interests, needs, and work world shift?

We aim for you and your team to own your project and your learning.

Design Innovation and Leadership (DIAL) is delivered by the University's multi-award-winning Innovation Practice Program. To learn more about the Program, including a video about the subject, the range of organizations that have participated as sponsors, examples of past projects, and to hear students talk about their experiences in the predecessor subject, CIE/CIP, please go to the Innovation Practice Program’s website.

All project sponsors will require that students maintain the confidentiality of their proprietary information.  The University will require all students (except those working on projects sponsored by the University itself) to assign any Intellectual Property they create (other than Copyright in their Assessment Materials) to the sponsor of their project. The projects may vary in the hours needed for a successful outcome.

Master of Engineering students please note: This subject has been integrated with the Skills Towards Employment Program (STEP) to create a straightforward pathway for completion of the Engineering Practice Hurdle (EPH). See the STEP page for more information.

Please note: If you commenced a Master of Engineering degree prior to 2025, DIAL qualifies for the selective slot previously held by Creating Innovative Engineering. Engineering students who commenced in 2025 or later may only take DIAL as an elective.

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This subject aims to give you theoretical frameworks, practical insights, and preliminary skills to work in your chosen profession in contexts where determining what problem to work on is an important complement to knowing how to solve that problem.

You will develop these understandings, insights and skills by working on two projects. In the first, they will work in multi-disciplinary teams on a strategically-important innovation challenge sponsored by an industry organisation. Through that project, you will learn the “what and how” of delivering innovation-like projects – understanding the relationship between your challenge and the organisation’s strategy; designing, securing, and conducting interviews; analysing qualitative data to generate insights; ideation and creativity techniques to create value; stakeholder management; working in an intense team on an ambiguous problem; visual and oral communication. In the second, you will develop the ability to apply to the same concepts to yourself – How will you know what you want and need? How will you know if you need to change? How will you innovate yourself as your interests, needs, and work world shift?

We aim for you and your team to own your project and your learning.

Creating Innovative Professionals (CIP) and its companion subject, Creating Innovative Engineering ENGR90034 (CIE), are delivered by the University's Innovation Practice Program. To learn more about the Program, including the range of organizations that have participated as sponsors, examples of past projects and to hear students talk about their experiences in taking CIE/CIP, please go to the Innovation Practice Program’s website.

All project sponsors will require students to maintain the confidentiality of their proprietary information. The University will require all students (except those working on projects sponsored by the University itself) to assign any Intellectual Property they create (other than Copyright in their Assessment Materials) to the sponsor of their project.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject involves students learning the integrated process between design and construction by developing a proposal for a design & build project. An objective of the project is to help students explore the close relationship between design, constructability and construction. Students will develop a simplified design for an infrastructure project that includes a range of civil works such as basements, pavement and earthworks, foundations, drainage, level crossing removal projects, bridge construction and cranage, and then propose solutions for construction that may require iteration of the design. The proposed solution would also address OH&S, environmental, and social sustainability issues inherent in areas such waste minimisation, noise and dust control in a project environmental management plan.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject provides students with authentic, team-based experience in integrated civil engineering design, reflecting real-world professional practice. Students will work collaboratively on project-based design tasks focused on a major civil engineering system (e.g. an apartment building). The project emphasises sustainable and multidisciplinary solutions primarily focused on structural, geotechnical, and energy design. Learning is supported through lectures and workshops that directly relate to the project context providing students with critical skills to integrate theory with practical design application.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The aim of this subject is to provide students with an introduction to urban traffic engineering and transport planning principles. General theory as well as analytical techniques for solving common transport engineering and modelling problems are presented. The key theme in this subject is how to improve the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems. This includes basics of traffic flow theory, simulation, and operation models, and understanding and predicting travel demand in urban transport networks. Behavioural choice modelling methods are used with real data from the Melbourne Metropolitan Area to predict demand for all modes of transport including public transport and non-motorised transport modes. The concepts of accessibility, efficiency and sustainability are introduced in the context of urban transport systems, and transport safety measures and best practices are also introduced.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

Students will learn how to structure and work with engineering contracts to deliver and procure engineering outcomes in this subject. Students will develop a working knowledge of contract administration and gain an understanding of commercial aspects of engineering. All engineers interface commercially with engineering contracts throughout their careers, and thus the application of the subject content is broad. Those seeking to work as a contractor and as a contract administrator will find a direct application of this subject’s content. Students will learn how to use procurement and contracts to develop successful engineering projects. This includes administration of the contracts and understanding the business environment where these contracts are agreed. These skills will be useful to students in their future work and apply to a wide range of engineering disciplines.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Management of engineering projects. This includes the role and responsibilities of corporate managers, market analysis, structuring of procurement options, development of contractual terms and conditions and the pricing of work.

Estimating and tendering engineering works via work breakdown structures, work method statements, risk identification and tendering principles. The study material also covers contract administration and project control functions and techniques including time and money negotiations and cash flow management.

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This subject seeks to -

• Build a thorough understanding of the theoretical and conceptual basis upon which the practice of financial project analysis is built and its application to engineering
• Satisfy the practical needs of the engineering manager toward making informed financial decisions when involved in an engineering project
• Incorporate critical decision-making tools that engineering managers can bring to the task of making informed financial decisions.

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In fiercely competitive global and dynamic environments, companies face increasing pressures to exceed customer expectations along multiple performance measures, such as cost, quality, flexibility and innovativeness. To outperform their competitors, many firms make the mistake of mimicking their rivals, rather than focusing on developing the organizational capabilities that competitors will find difficult to match over the long term. And although operations are at the core of a firm’s value adding activities, few firms have sought to build a sustainable competitive advantage around these capabilities.

As such, this subject emphasises the critical nature of Operations Management as an essential part of a competent engineer’s portfolio of knowledge and skills. Operations deals with the design, management and continuous improvement of business processes. It aims at providing some of the core concepts in operations that are essential for leveraging a firm’s operational capabilities to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. This course provides a logical and rigorous approach to plan and control process structure and managerial levers to achieve desired business process performance.

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AIMS

This subject examines the structure and basic building blocks of high performing organisations from a senior management perspective. It covers tools and techniques to conduct both an analysis of the external environment and the strategies to align the appropriate internal skills and capabilities.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

The subject includes:

• The role of leadership in strategy formulation and its balance with execution
• Overcoming the barriers to implementation of strategic plans
• Business integration and managing technology
• Entrepreneurship in modern business.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject explores the scope and methods for improving energy efficiency across a range of sectors. Improving energy efficiency is one of the key responses to increasingly scarce natural resources and problems caused by pollutants arising from energy production and use. A range of energy supply and usage scenarios will be considered including transport, manufacturing, commercial and domestic sectors. Collection of information by auditing and then using this information for planning, demand management and impact assessment will be investigated.

Knowledge gained in this subject will allow graduates to practice in the area of energy efficiency. This subject draws on students’ fundamental understanding of engineering efficiency, as well as their ability to use mathematics and statistics to analyse data to inform innovative solutions. The subject complements other subjects offered in the energy theme of the Department such as Energy for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Areas of study include: potential for improvements in energy efficiency in petrol and diesel vehicles; energy efficiency technologies for the manufacturing, commercial and domestic sectors; demand side management; integrated resource planning; energy auditing; and economic and environmental impacts.

These are applied to the following thematic areas;

• Introduction: fundamentals, energy conversion, supply, distribution and utilisation of energy, Indices, indicators and measurements
• Advanced energy systems
• Energy audits
• Manufacturing sector
• Commercial sector (office & retail)
• Residential sector
• Transport sector
• Life cycle energy analysis
• Developing countries & remote areas
• Energy policy and planning

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject provides a multi-disciplinary overview of the design of sustainable buildings and considers the design from an architectural, services engineering, facade engineering, environmental engineering and structural engineering, tenants and owners perspective. A number of industry based case study examples will be introduced to complement the lectures.

This subject uses a project based learning project where students work in teams to design a new or refurbished commercial building to improve the environmental and social performance of the building. Students learn to apply sustainability-rating tools used in industry to their solutions.

Students in the subject come from different disciplinary backgrounds, principally engineering and architecture, and are expected to share their knowledge and learn from each other to successfully complete the project work. This stands them in good stead for entering professional practice in the area of sustainability.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics include: ecological sustainable design, life cycle analysis, planning for sustainable buildings and cities, regulatory environment, barriers to green buildings, green building rating tools, material selection, embodied energy, operating energy, indoor environmental quality (noise, light and air), facade systems, ventilation systems, transportation, water treatment systems, water efficiency, building economics, and staff productivity. These will be covered in the following thematic areas:

• Sustainable Cities
• Sustainable Precincts
• Building Envelope
• Building services - Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
• Building services - Energy
• Building Services - water
• Existing Buildings
• Green Building Rating Tools
• ESD Drivers and Barriers
• ESD Economics
• the process of a green building - 60L CH2
• Business Perspective
• Case Studies.

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AIMS

This subject provides understanding of the principles of development and sustainability in the context of renewable and non-renewable energy sources. Social, environmental and financial implications of technologies to de-carbonise emissions and technologies that can offer a future non-carbon energy supply are discussed.

This subject uses project based learning where students work in teams to investigate the appropriateness of a selected energy source or a selected technology for a particular country, region or a location. Students learn to apply the principles of sustainability and development.

Knowledge gained in this subject will allow graduates to practice in the area of energy policy and planning. The subject complements other subjects offered in the energy theme of the Department such as Solar Energy, Energy Efficiency Technology and Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

• Introduction: What does 'sustainable' mean? What is development? A model for sustainable development
• Consumption (needs versus wants), Global perspectives (inequality and resource distribution)
• Role of energy in development
• Requirements for an sustainable energy supply
• Carbon versus non-carbon energy supply - overview (resources, usage)
• Problems with past patterns of energy use
• Energy efficiency (potential and limits)
• Energy Policy
• Transport futures and peak oil (resources)
• Carbon capture and storage
• Nuclear fission and fusion
• Renewable energy technologies - large and small
• Discussion Forum: Reality of Sustainability.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject provides the application of principles of solar energy engineering. A number of solar technologies and applications methods are investigated.

This subject uses a project based learning where students work in teams to design a solar system for a particular application considering environmental, social and financial constraints. Students learn to apply the principles of solar energy and design.

Knowledge gained in this subject will allow graduates to practice in the area of renewable energy industry. The subject complements other subjects offered in the energy theme of the Department such as Energy for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

• Introduction to Solar Energy in the energy economy; Fundamental heat & mass transfer; Radiation properties of materials; and selective surfaces
• Solar Geometry and solar angles; atmospheric effects and radiation prediction; and Solar radiation measurement
• Flat plate collectors design and performance characteristic
• Concentrating collectors design and performance characteristic; Evacuated tube collectors
• Solar System design methods
• Fundamentals of photovoltaic systems
• Solar process heating
• Solar drying, Solar cookers, Green houses and Solar stills
• Solar water pumping; Solar refrigeration
• Built environment applications passive and active systems
• Solar hot water and solar heat pump systems.

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This subject provides students with authentic, team-based experience in integrated civil engineering design, reflecting real-world professional practice. Students will work collaboratively on project-based design tasks focused on a major civil engineering system (e.g. an apartment building). The project emphasises sustainable and multidisciplinary solutions primarily focused on structural, geotechnical, and energy design. Learning is supported through lectures and workshops that directly relate to the project context providing students with critical skills to integrate theory with practical design application.

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AIMS

There is a need for civil engineers to increase their knowledge and skills in freight systems since they are actively involved in the planning, design, construction, maintenance and management of a range of freight infrastructure such as roads, bridges and ports. Civil engineers require expertise in freight systems to reduce the social and environmental costs from freight including safety, noise and emissions. Training in freight systems also provides opportunities for freight networks to become more productive and efficient increasing economic benefits for society.

Freight infrastructure allows the freight system to operate, facilitating vital components of our economy, including production, distribution and trade.

The purpose of the freight system relates to its role in providing a service for the economy. Freight transport is a derived demand; it does not exist for its own sake. The primary demand is for the consumption of goods where there is spatial separation. Goods are generally stored, processed and consumed at different locations. There is a need for goods to move to increase their value for producers, manufacturers and consumers. Freight can be considered as the economy in motion. Goods are transported as part of the economic activities of production, manufacturing and consumption.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Freight networks provide a service for producers and manufacturers allowing access to markets for the consumption of goods. The benefit of goods being transported relates to their increased value at their trip destination. Reduced transport operation costs leads to lower production and distribution costs that creates opportunities for lower priced goods.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Urban transport currently faces many challenges to accommodate a growing demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These challenges call for systemic solutions that leverage smart mobility management rather than simple infrastructure expansion. This subject aims to introduce foundational theory and data analysis tools to equip future planners and engineers with knowledge and skills to tackle complex urban transport problems and contribute to a sustainable future.

Throughout the semester, students will work on a project based on a real-world problem. They will need to understand characteristics of the land use and transport demand in a region; examine the existing transport options; and evaluate whether proposed solutions contribute to sustainable mobility.

Theoretical aspects discussed during lectures will be implemented and visualised during tutorials using open-source data dashboards, spreadsheets, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software. Some of the lectures will also count with industry guests presenting on how they utilise emerging data sources to guide projects and decision-making.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

In undergraduate subjects, students are exposed to some engineering features of transport and traffic engineering. However, these do not fully provide the requisite knowledge and skills for understanding the modelling and planning aspects of transport system engineering. These competencies are of highest importance for those interested in a career in transport engineering. In this subject, students will be provided with the fundamental concept of four-step modelling in depth, including trip generation/attraction, trip distribution, modal split and traffic assignment. The contemporary topics of transport modelling such as choice modelling, car-ownership and uncertainty modelling in the context of transport infrastructure engineering will also be presented. The subject provides real world examples and assignments. The primary emphasis of the subject is on concepts (rather than mathematical details) and getting students ready for the industry.

Please view this video for further information: Transport System Modelling

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This subject focuses on the “physical” and “digital” infrastructures of transport systems. This includes not just the infrastructure that facilitates the efficient and safe movement of passenger cars, but also the design and planning concepts related to multimodal transport options and new technologies, such as autonomous vehicles and connected transport systems. As such in addition to highway geometric design, pavement design, bridge, and tunnel design, this subject would also include public transport infrastructure design, intelligent transport systems, and connected and automated vehicle infrastructures of the future. This subject presents a comprehensive introduction to transport careers and multidisciplinary opportunities for students after graduation.

This subject delivers a coherent plan to integrate transport engineering effectively with the most relevant geotechnical and structural engineering components of transport infrastructure. The syllabus includes:

• Highway geometric design
• Public transport planning and design
• Digital infrastructure of transport
• Pavement design
• Structural design of bridges and tunnels

View detailed information in the Handbook

Project management provides an organisation with powerful tools that improve its ability to plan, organise and manage resources to bring about the successful completion of specific project goals and objectives. In undertaking this subject students will explore the principles and distinct technical skills of engineering management that are needed to implement a project. The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in engineering project management, but is also of relevance to a range of engineering design disciplines where design for the total life cycle of the product or infrastructure should be considered.

Topics covered include key aspects of the management principles, project planning & scheduling, management systems & control and management practices to enable execution of the project in a timely and financially prudent manner.

Note: This subject has been integrated with the Skills Towards Employment Program (STEP) and contains activities that can assist in the completion of the Engineering Practice Hurdle (EPH).

View detailed information in the Handbook

21^st century - geotechnical engineering is undergoing a revolution, embracing the strength of computer-based site characterisation, investigation and performance analysis methods. Site-specific computer simulations elucidate the pros and cons of long-standing empirically established engineering solutions and finally permit their rigorous scientific analysis. New algorithms and hardware enable the simulation of complex interacting subsurface processes even in intricate structures. In concert with much improved measurement, imaging, modelling and visualisation tools, “multiphysics” simulation software greatly increase the ability of engineers to get accurate answers to What-If? engineering design questions.

This subject provides the essential foundations for an informed, successful and effective application of process simulation software that now gets routinely applied in geotechnical engineering projects, site investigation, and performance and risk assessment of engineering measures.

The subject covers essentials like the formulation of conceptual models for subsurface (heat flow, fluid flow, geomechanics), numeric modelling techniques, development, programming and incorporation of constitutive relationships, construction and parameterisation of site-specific models, experimental design of simulations (numeric experiments), and visualisation and analysis of results.

Theoretical foundations are applied in hands-on model building – configuration – calibration - simulation – analysis exercises conducted with freely available and commercial software tools, including proprietary ones used by industry.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Offshore wind geotechnical engineering aims to provide basic knowledge and current design practice of offshore wind foundations in the Australian and global context. This subject is of particular interest to students intending to establish a career in the fast growing offshore renewable energy industry. The subject will provide an overview of current offshore renewable energy technologies, characteristics of common offshore sediments and geohazards. It will cover foundation design of offshore wind structures, including loadings on foundations and design considerations, offshore site characterization techniques and soil-structure interaction. Students will also develop their technical and professional ability to work and communicate effectively in diverse offshore engineering teams through a group design portfolio of offshore wind foundation design.

The subject will cover topics such as offshore renewable energy systems, characteristics of seabed sediments and geohazards, loads on offshore wind foundation, offshore site characterization, and offshore wind foundation design.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The subject examines in-depth the observation, analysis and prediction of wind-generated waves in the open ocean, in shelf seas, and in coastal regions. It also provides an introduction to wave and hydrodynamics modelling as a support for engineering applications. It provides a multi-disciplinary overview of problems by combining cutting-edge research in Maritime and Coastal Engineering and industry applications. The subject will provide students with a solid grounding in wave physics that is essential to evaluate the environmental impact on design and operation of marine structures.

Topics include:

• Linear wave theory;
• Second-order wave theory
• Wave Spectrum;
• Tides;
• Wave Measurements;
• Near-shore processes;
• Wave statistics;
• Hydrodynamics and wave modelling;

View detailed information in the Handbook

In this subject, students will learn surface and groundwater hydrology with an emphasis on engineering applications. Techniques for statistical analyses of hydrological variables and mathematical modelling of hydrological processes will be introduced for engineering designs and investigations. The subject will introduce groundwater principles and modelling. Students will also acquire knowledge of surface water and groundwater quality.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of water quality and the associated standards for use as potable water, recycled water or discharge into the environment in a sustainable manner. The subject will include the identification of risks and measures to control those risks and various treatment processes including physical, chemical and microbiological treatment of water and wastewater. The concept of integrated water management will be introduced and reinforced in the group based project work throughout the semester. Students will learn about the systems for water reclamation and reuse. This subject builds on a range of student’s general knowledge of water systems engineering that is developed in subjects like Systems Modelling and Design and builds on general knowledge of chemistry and biology. It is also assumed that students have developed skills on identifying and sourcing information, and can effectively work as a team to solve larger problems.

Graduates from this subject may apply the skills developed in the water supply, waste water treatment, or water sensitive urban design areas.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

This subject covers theoretical and practical management aspects of sustainable water supply and treatment, wastewater treatment and reuse. Specific topics include:

• Integrated water management
• Risk identification and management for water services
• Water quality guidelines, regulations and performance criteria for treatment plant design
• Water treatment processes and waste disposal
• Wastewater treatment - physical, chemical and biological treatment technologies
• Systems for water reclamation and reuse.

The students will produce a conceptual design of a water and wastewater treatment system for a small town.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject is available as an elective in many of the Faculty of Engineering and IT Masters programs. It is aimed both at students who have immediate entrepreneurial intentions and at students who may be considering starting their own business at some point in their careers. The subject is designed to introduce all participants to their potential as entrepreneurs. By developing their own enterprise proposal within small groups, students will learn and demonstrate various processes by which successful new ventures move from idea to launch.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Business modelling, opportunity analysis, value creation, financial management, sources of finance, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurial behaviour, successful engineering entrepreneurs.

TEACHING METHOD

The teaching method is based around a structured process of mini-lectures, class exercises, and active hands-on learning by doing. Intensive field research and minimum viable product development are very important to the subject. Learning is further enhanced through meetings with the lecturer and review by peers.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

Students will learn how to structure and work with engineering contracts to deliver and procure engineering outcomes in this subject. Students will develop a working knowledge of contract administration and gain an understanding of commercial aspects of engineering. All engineers interface commercially with engineering contracts throughout their careers, and thus the application of the subject content is broad. Those seeking to work as a contractor and as a contract administrator will find a direct application of this subject’s content. Students will learn how to use procurement and contracts to develop successful engineering projects. This includes administration of the contracts and understanding the business environment where these contracts are agreed. These skills will be useful to students in their future work and apply to a wide range of engineering disciplines.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Management of engineering projects. This includes the role and responsibilities of corporate managers, market analysis, structuring of procurement options, development of contractual terms and conditions and the pricing of work.

Estimating and tendering engineering works via work breakdown structures, work method statements, risk identification and tendering principles. The study material also covers contract administration and project control functions and techniques including time and money negotiations and cash flow management.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject prepares graduate engineers to practice basic marketing in the engineering profession where there is a mutual need and reliance upon their training and skills in both engineering and marketing to satisfy the needs, wants and demands of the market, internally within the organisation, and through the entire supply chain in a sustainable manner.

This subject provides an introduction to the basic concepts of marketing, marketing management and marketing engineering. Some of the principal topics include: what is marketing engineering; differences between engineering and consumer products; designing and managing engineering services; sales engineer and managing sales force; online marketing and the internet of things; business-to-business markets; business-to-government markets; company orientation; corporate division and strategic planning; market positioning, segmentation and targeting; marketing mix (product, pricing, place and promotion); marketing plan and strategies; SWOT analysis, understand the legal, economic, sociocultural, natural and technological environments; distribution channels; communications, models and simulations; decision tools; databases and data mining, forecasting; theory and evidence-based decision making; etc. The principles of sustainability will apply throughout the subject.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

The evolution of construction methods and the development of structural systems enable buildings to be built faster and safer than traditional construction methods. This subject introduces advanced steel and composite structures that can be used in modern construction, where most parts of a building are prefabricated off-site in a factory before assembling them on-site. The subject covers different types of structures, including steel structures, composite slabs, composite beams, composite columns, and cold-formed steel. Application of finite element analysis and design methods for modular and prefabricated buildings and steel structures under fires are also introduced to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of modern construction methods. Students will also experience design exercises of real-world structures from senior experienced practising engineers, which will place them at the forefront of both theory and practice.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject introduces the fundamental concepts and practice of earthquake resistant design of buildings from an international perspective, incorporating consideration of design in regions of low to moderate seismicity such as Australia and in regions of high seismicity. The design of economically and environmentally feasible structures that can successfully withstand the forces and displacements generated by severe ground motions is a challenge demanding the best in structural engineering art and science. This subject builds on knowledge of Risk Analysis, Engineering Mathematics, Dynamics, and Structural Theory and Design to allow candidates to work as a supervised graduate engineer in this specialised area of practice.

Topics covered include plate tectonics and seismicity, structural response to earthquake ground motions, design philosophy and design applications to buildings, deformation modelling and capacity response spectrum method, seismic design and detailing of reinforced concrete building structures, seismic hazard and site specific hazard analysis.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject introduces students to the fundamental concepts of structural dynamics and finite element modelling and teaches students the skills of undertaking structural analyses which involve dynamic (or transient) actions in a practical engineering context. At the conclusion of this subject students should be able to undertake dynamic analyses by hand calculations (that can be enhanced by the use of EXCEL spreadsheets) and effectively employ a commercial computational package (e.g. Strand 7) for more complex analyses. Emphasis is on the ability to undertake independent checks of results generated by the computer. Improved proficiencies in structural dynamics and modelling will result in more economical design of structures and a more sustainable built environment. This subject builds on students’ fundamental knowledge of engineering mathematics, mechanics and structural analysis. For students considering a career in structural design for earthquake resistant structures this is an important subject to prepare for professional practice as a graduate under the supervision of a chartered engineer.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include: introduction to finite element formulations for in-plane (membrane) stress analysis, use of finite element modelling packages; the response analyses of single-degree-of-freedom systems, discrete multi-degree-of-freedom systems and distributed mass (continuous) systems in conditions of natural vibrations and forced excitations; numerical time-step integration techniques; excitation simulation techniques, simultaneous equation solution and reduction techniques; frequency domain analyses and processing of time-series data. Skills acquired from the various topics outlined above will be integrated and applied to a number of case studies.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject introduces students to the special requirements necessary for the successful design of high rise buildings. Elements of high rise building design considered in the subject are structural floor, framing and foundation systems, wind loading including wind tunnel testing and earthquake loading, analysis techniques including computer-aided analysis, vertical movements and second order effects, facade design, construction methods, sustainability concepts and a review of case study buildings.

The subject builds on fundamental structural engineering knowledge and when learnt together with other structural engineering electives will provide students who successfully complete the subjects a well-rounded knowledge of a range of structural engineering design skills. Students who complete this subject may find work in a structural engineering consultancy or as a site engineer and work under the supervision of a chartered professional engineer on high rise building designs or design variations.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Introduction to high-rise design; introduction to finite element analysis; loads and design criteria for tall buildings; gravity load resisting; structural systems; gravity loads; lateral load resisting structural system; SpaceGass modelling; wind loading and analysis; earthquake induced loading; distribution of lateral loads to structural elements; coupled core systems and outriggers; theoretical treatment for column beam frames; architectural aspects and sustainability concepts; extreme loading effects; foundations of tall buildings; and, construction methods. Skills acquired from the above topics will be integrated and applied to the assignment which consists of a detailed analysis of a typical high rise building.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject is aimed at teaching the scientific principles associated with extreme events including that of earthquakes, impact, blast and cyclonic wind and their effects on a structure. Students will also be trained to make effective use of state-of-the-art techniques in quantifying the effects of the design actions in order that suitable level of protection can be incorporated into the structure to counter an extreme event. At the conclusion of this subject students should be capable of modelling a variety of extreme loadings by employing advanced techniques. Students will also be able to apply the modelling methodologies to fulfil performance based design objectives. Improved proficiencies in countering extreme loading in the design of structures will achieve better economy and a more sustainable built environment. This subject builds on students’ fundamental knowledge of engineering mathematics, mechanics and structural analysis. With frequency of extreme events increasing due to climate change, increased mass and speed of vehicles and terrorism, this subject provides graduates with specialist knowledge to work in the field of hazard reduction or avoidance under the guidance of a chartered engineer.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include Rayleigh Method for developing a simplified model of a structural element, hand calculation techniques for analysing the impact action of a solid object based on linear elastic and elasto-plastic behaviour of the structure, considerations for the conditions of contact and anomalies associated with contributions by the higher modes. Another major topic to be covered is the capacity spectrum method involving linear, or non-linear, static analysis for the assessment of a building structure subject to seismic actions. Other topics include the analysis of blast actions by hand calculations and phenomena associated with the aerodynamic actions of wind.

View detailed information in the Handbook

In the past few years, the Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry has observed the evolution of simple 2D drafting programs into integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) based on 3D spatial technologies. In this subject, students will learn how BIM is used to model, store and visualise architectural, structural, and facilities components of an infrastructure in 3D. Students will also learn how adding time and cost information to BIM allows AEC to foster collaboration in designing infrastructures, minimize the risk of construction errors and optimise the maintenance of them.

The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in civil engineering, property management, surveying, spatial information and urban planning but is also relevant to a range of disciplines where 3D building information should be considered.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The subject examines in-depth the observation, analysis and prediction of wind-generated waves in the open ocean, in shelf seas, and in coastal regions. It also provides an introduction to wave and hydrodynamics modelling as a support for engineering applications. It provides a multi-disciplinary overview of problems by combining cutting-edge research in Maritime and Coastal Engineering and industry applications. The subject will provide students with a solid grounding in wave physics that is essential to evaluate the environmental impact on design and operation of marine structures.

Topics include:

• Linear wave theory;
• Second-order wave theory
• Wave Spectrum;
• Tides;
• Wave Measurements;
• Near-shore processes;
• Wave statistics;
• Hydrodynamics and wave modelling;

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject is aimed at teaching the scientific principles associated with extreme events including that of earthquakes, impact, blast and cyclonic wind and their effects on a structure. Students will also be trained to make effective use of state-of-the-art techniques in quantifying the effects of the design actions in order that suitable level of protection can be incorporated into the structure to counter an extreme event. At the conclusion of this subject students should be capable of modelling a variety of extreme loadings by employing advanced techniques. Students will also be able to apply the modelling methodologies to fulfil performance based design objectives. Improved proficiencies in countering extreme loading in the design of structures will achieve better economy and a more sustainable built environment. This subject builds on students’ fundamental knowledge of engineering mathematics, mechanics and structural analysis. With frequency of extreme events increasing due to climate change, increased mass and speed of vehicles and terrorism, this subject provides graduates with specialist knowledge to work in the field of hazard reduction or avoidance under the guidance of a chartered engineer.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include Rayleigh Method for developing a simplified model of a structural element, hand calculation techniques for analysing the impact action of a solid object based on linear elastic and elasto-plastic behaviour of the structure, considerations for the conditions of contact and anomalies associated with contributions by the higher modes. Another major topic to be covered is the capacity spectrum method involving linear, or non-linear, static analysis for the assessment of a building structure subject to seismic actions. Other topics include the analysis of blast actions by hand calculations and phenomena associated with the aerodynamic actions of wind.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The subject involves undertaking a substantial group project (typically in groups of three students) requiring an independent investigation on an approved topic in advanced engineering design and / or research. Each project is carried out under the supervision of a member of academic staff and where appropriate an industry partner.

The emphasis of the project can be associated with either:

• A well-defined project description, often based on a task required by an external, industrial client. Students will be tutored in the synthesis of practical solutions to complex technical problems within a structured working environment, as if they were professional engineering practitioners; or
• A project description that will require an explorative approach, where students will pursue outcomes associated with new knowledge or understanding, within the engineering science disciplines, often as an adjunct to existing academic research initiatives.

It is expected that the Capstone Project will incorporate findings associated with both well-defined professional practice and research principles and will provide students with the opportunity to integrate technical knowledge and generic skills gained in earlier years.

The project component of this subject is supplemented by a lecture course dealing with project management tools and practices.

Please note:

Students enrolled in the suite of Master of Engineering programs must be within the final 112.5 points of their degree to enrol.

Students enrolled in the Master of Industrial Engineering must be within the final 100 points of their degree to enrol.

Students are to take Engineering Capstone Project Part 1 and then subsequently continue with Engineering Capstone Project Part 2 in the following semester. Upon successful completion of this project, students will receive 25 points credit.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Please refer to ENGR90037 Engineering Capstone Project Part 1 for this information.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject introduces students to the structural design and analysis of prestressed concrete and timber structures with applications to multi-storey buildings and other infrastructures in compliance with the Standards. This subject will build on the knowledge from CVEN30009 Structural Theory and Design and CVEN90049 Structural Theory and Design 2, particularly on the fundamental behaviour of structural elements under flexural, shear and axial load.
This subject will also expose students to emerging technology to achieve more sustainable structures. Students will also explore various techniques to evaluate a structural design from a sustainability perspective.
Students who complete this subject are likely to find employment in design consultancy or concrete construction companies and work under the supervision of a senior engineer.

The subject covers topics such as design of partially prestressed concrete beams; High performance concrete; Design against physical and chemical attack of concrete structures; Design of engineered timber structures, Design for low carbon emission; and Life-cycle analysis and circular economy.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject introduces the fundamental concepts and practice of earthquake resistant design of buildings from an international perspective, incorporating consideration of design in regions of low to moderate seismicity such as Australia and in regions of high seismicity. The design of economically and environmentally feasible structures that can successfully withstand the forces and displacements generated by severe ground motions is a challenge demanding the best in structural engineering art and science. This subject builds on knowledge of Risk Analysis, Engineering Mathematics, Dynamics, and Structural Theory and Design to allow candidates to work as a supervised graduate engineer in this specialised area of practice.

Topics covered include plate tectonics and seismicity, structural response to earthquake ground motions, design philosophy and design applications to buildings, deformation modelling and capacity response spectrum method, seismic design and detailing of reinforced concrete building structures, seismic hazard and site specific hazard analysis.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject introduces students to the fundamental concepts of structural dynamics and finite element modelling and teaches students the skills of undertaking structural analyses which involve dynamic (or transient) actions in a practical engineering context. At the conclusion of this subject students should be able to undertake dynamic analyses by hand calculations (that can be enhanced by the use of EXCEL spreadsheets) and effectively employ a commercial computational package (e.g. Strand 7) for more complex analyses. Emphasis is on the ability to undertake independent checks of results generated by the computer. Improved proficiencies in structural dynamics and modelling will result in more economical design of structures and a more sustainable built environment. This subject builds on students’ fundamental knowledge of engineering mathematics, mechanics and structural analysis. For students considering a career in structural design for earthquake resistant structures this is an important subject to prepare for professional practice as a graduate under the supervision of a chartered engineer.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include: introduction to finite element formulations for in-plane (membrane) stress analysis, use of finite element modelling packages; the response analyses of single-degree-of-freedom systems, discrete multi-degree-of-freedom systems and distributed mass (continuous) systems in conditions of natural vibrations and forced excitations; numerical time-step integration techniques; excitation simulation techniques, simultaneous equation solution and reduction techniques; frequency domain analyses and processing of time-series data. Skills acquired from the various topics outlined above will be integrated and applied to a number of case studies.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject introduces students to the special requirements necessary for the successful design of high rise buildings. Elements of high rise building design considered in the subject are structural floor, framing and foundation systems, wind loading including wind tunnel testing and earthquake loading, analysis techniques including computer-aided analysis, vertical movements and second order effects, facade design, construction methods, sustainability concepts and a review of case study buildings.

The subject builds on fundamental structural engineering knowledge and when learnt together with other structural engineering electives will provide students who successfully complete the subjects a well-rounded knowledge of a range of structural engineering design skills. Students who complete this subject may find work in a structural engineering consultancy or as a site engineer and work under the supervision of a chartered professional engineer on high rise building designs or design variations.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Introduction to high-rise design; introduction to finite element analysis; loads and design criteria for tall buildings; gravity load resisting; structural systems; gravity loads; lateral load resisting structural system; SpaceGass modelling; wind loading and analysis; earthquake induced loading; distribution of lateral loads to structural elements; coupled core systems and outriggers; theoretical treatment for column beam frames; architectural aspects and sustainability concepts; extreme loading effects; foundations of tall buildings; and, construction methods. Skills acquired from the above topics will be integrated and applied to the assignment which consists of a detailed analysis of a typical high rise building.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject is aimed at teaching the scientific principles associated with extreme events including that of earthquakes, impact, blast and cyclonic wind and their effects on a structure. Students will also be trained to make effective use of state-of-the-art techniques in quantifying the effects of the design actions in order that suitable level of protection can be incorporated into the structure to counter an extreme event. At the conclusion of this subject students should be capable of modelling a variety of extreme loadings by employing advanced techniques. Students will also be able to apply the modelling methodologies to fulfil performance based design objectives. Improved proficiencies in countering extreme loading in the design of structures will achieve better economy and a more sustainable built environment. This subject builds on students’ fundamental knowledge of engineering mathematics, mechanics and structural analysis. With frequency of extreme events increasing due to climate change, increased mass and speed of vehicles and terrorism, this subject provides graduates with specialist knowledge to work in the field of hazard reduction or avoidance under the guidance of a chartered engineer.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics covered include Rayleigh Method for developing a simplified model of a structural element, hand calculation techniques for analysing the impact action of a solid object based on linear elastic and elasto-plastic behaviour of the structure, considerations for the conditions of contact and anomalies associated with contributions by the higher modes. Another major topic to be covered is the capacity spectrum method involving linear, or non-linear, static analysis for the assessment of a building structure subject to seismic actions. Other topics include the analysis of blast actions by hand calculations and phenomena associated with the aerodynamic actions of wind.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

The evolution of construction methods and the development of structural systems enable buildings to be built faster and safer than traditional construction methods. This subject introduces advanced steel and composite structures that can be used in modern construction, where most parts of a building are prefabricated off-site in a factory before assembling them on-site. The subject covers different types of structures, including steel structures, composite slabs, composite beams, composite columns, and cold-formed steel. Application of finite element analysis and design methods for modular and prefabricated buildings and steel structures under fires are also introduced to provide students with comprehensive knowledge of modern construction methods. Students will also experience design exercises of real-world structures from senior experienced practising engineers, which will place them at the forefront of both theory and practice.

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In the past few years, the Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry has observed the evolution of simple 2D drafting programs into integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) based on 3D spatial technologies. In this subject, students will learn how BIM is used to model, store and visualise architectural, structural, and facilities components of an infrastructure in 3D. Students will also learn how adding time and cost information to BIM allows AEC to foster collaboration in designing infrastructures, minimize the risk of construction errors and optimise the maintenance of them.

The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in civil engineering, property management, surveying, spatial information and urban planning but is also relevant to a range of disciplines where 3D building information should be considered.

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AIMS

This subject provides a multi-disciplinary overview of the design of sustainable buildings and considers the design from an architectural, services engineering, facade engineering, environmental engineering and structural engineering, tenants and owners perspective. A number of industry based case study examples will be introduced to complement the lectures.

This subject uses a project based learning project where students work in teams to design a new or refurbished commercial building to improve the environmental and social performance of the building. Students learn to apply sustainability-rating tools used in industry to their solutions.

Students in the subject come from different disciplinary backgrounds, principally engineering and architecture, and are expected to share their knowledge and learn from each other to successfully complete the project work. This stands them in good stead for entering professional practice in the area of sustainability.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics include: ecological sustainable design, life cycle analysis, planning for sustainable buildings and cities, regulatory environment, barriers to green buildings, green building rating tools, material selection, embodied energy, operating energy, indoor environmental quality (noise, light and air), facade systems, ventilation systems, transportation, water treatment systems, water efficiency, building economics, and staff productivity. These will be covered in the following thematic areas:

• Sustainable Cities
• Sustainable Precincts
• Building Envelope
• Building services - Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
• Building services - Energy
• Building Services - water
• Existing Buildings
• Green Building Rating Tools
• ESD Drivers and Barriers
• ESD Economics
• the process of a green building - 60L CH2
• Business Perspective
• Case Studies.

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AIMS

This subject involves students undertaking professional work experience with a Host Organisation, generally at the Host Organisation’s premises. Students will work under the supervision of both an academic mentor and an external supervisor at the Host Organisation.

By completing their internship as part of this subject, students will receive support in navigating their placement, guidance on maximising their learning from the experiences they gain and training in how to use these experiences when seeking employment.

This subject uses structured reflection to help students develop the professional skills and competencies required by engineers and IT professionals. Each student is allocated an academic mentor to assist them in their development and support their well-being.

Please view this video for further information: Internship

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The Integrated Design Studios focus on the successful union of architecture and engineering in building design. With strong involvement from consultants and clients from industry the studios provide an excellent opportunity to experience how design happens in practice in an environment emulating a design office. Students from both disciplines work together to develop building designs for real clients with a focus on sustainable practices, including zero carbon and renewable energy technologies. You will learn how to view design from both engineering and architectural perspectives and express ideas based in well-grounded, informed critical thinking. The studio includes basic building envelope and energy analysis components and engenders development of integrated design skills and understanding able to be employed in building designs in industry. Each studio uses a building typology specific to the industry client involved as a case study. Sustainable integrated design solutions appropriate to the building typology in question will be researched and developed throughout the studios.

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Offshore wind geotechnical engineering aims to provide basic knowledge and current design practice of offshore wind foundations in the Australian and global context. This subject is of particular interest to students intending to establish a career in the fast growing offshore renewable energy industry. The subject will provide an overview of current offshore renewable energy technologies, characteristics of common offshore sediments and geohazards. It will cover foundation design of offshore wind structures, including loadings on foundations and design considerations, offshore site characterization techniques and soil-structure interaction. Students will also develop their technical and professional ability to work and communicate effectively in diverse offshore engineering teams through a group design portfolio of offshore wind foundation design.

The subject will cover topics such as offshore renewable energy systems, characteristics of seabed sediments and geohazards, loads on offshore wind foundation, offshore site characterization, and offshore wind foundation design.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This is a geotechnical engineering subject in which students will be introduced to various geotechnical engineering application topics, including the design of pile foundations, tunnels and earth dams, basics of rock mechanics, rock slope stability assessment and site characterisation. This subject is of particular interest to students intending to establish a career in geotechnical engineering; it is also relevant to a range of engineering disciplines in which a good knowledge of geotechnical engineering offers an advantage, such as structural engineering.

The subject covers pile foundations – Various pile types available in the construction field and their installation and load bearing mechanisms, design of a single pile and a pile group with considering the bearing capacity and settlement failures, rock socketed piles, laterally loaded piles, micro piles and ground improvement techniques for piling; Basic rock mechanics – Rock stresses and strength, rock failure principles, rock testing; Rock slope assessment – Apply the theories of rock mechanics on slope stability assessment; Site characterisation for foundations – Planning and implementation of a site investigation; Tunneling- Key factors in tunnel design and design processes; Earth dam design – Different types of earth Dams and their functions, key design concepts.

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21^st century - geotechnical engineering is undergoing a revolution, embracing the strength of computer-based site characterisation, investigation and performance analysis methods. Site-specific computer simulations elucidate the pros and cons of long-standing empirically established engineering solutions and finally permit their rigorous scientific analysis. New algorithms and hardware enable the simulation of complex interacting subsurface processes even in intricate structures. In concert with much improved measurement, imaging, modelling and visualisation tools, “multiphysics” simulation software greatly increase the ability of engineers to get accurate answers to What-If? engineering design questions.

This subject provides the essential foundations for an informed, successful and effective application of process simulation software that now gets routinely applied in geotechnical engineering projects, site investigation, and performance and risk assessment of engineering measures.

The subject covers essentials like the formulation of conceptual models for subsurface (heat flow, fluid flow, geomechanics), numeric modelling techniques, development, programming and incorporation of constitutive relationships, construction and parameterisation of site-specific models, experimental design of simulations (numeric experiments), and visualisation and analysis of results.

Theoretical foundations are applied in hands-on model building – configuration – calibration - simulation – analysis exercises conducted with freely available and commercial software tools, including proprietary ones used by industry.

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The subject examines in-depth the observation, analysis and prediction of wind-generated waves in the open ocean, in shelf seas, and in coastal regions. It also provides an introduction to wave and hydrodynamics modelling as a support for engineering applications. It provides a multi-disciplinary overview of problems by combining cutting-edge research in Maritime and Coastal Engineering and industry applications. The subject will provide students with a solid grounding in wave physics that is essential to evaluate the environmental impact on design and operation of marine structures.

Topics include:

• Linear wave theory;
• Second-order wave theory
• Wave Spectrum;
• Tides;
• Wave Measurements;
• Near-shore processes;
• Wave statistics;
• Hydrodynamics and wave modelling;

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AIMS

In undergraduate subjects, students are exposed to some engineering features of transport and traffic engineering. However, these do not fully provide the requisite knowledge and skills for understanding the modelling and planning aspects of transport system engineering. These competencies are of highest importance for those interested in a career in transport engineering. In this subject, students will be provided with the fundamental concept of four-step modelling in depth, including trip generation/attraction, trip distribution, modal split and traffic assignment. The contemporary topics of transport modelling such as choice modelling, car-ownership and uncertainty modelling in the context of transport infrastructure engineering will also be presented. The subject provides real world examples and assignments. The primary emphasis of the subject is on concepts (rather than mathematical details) and getting students ready for the industry.

Please view this video for further information: Transport System Modelling

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AIMS

There is a need for civil engineers to increase their knowledge and skills in freight systems since they are actively involved in the planning, design, construction, maintenance and management of a range of freight infrastructure such as roads, bridges and ports. Civil engineers require expertise in freight systems to reduce the social and environmental costs from freight including safety, noise and emissions. Training in freight systems also provides opportunities for freight networks to become more productive and efficient increasing economic benefits for society.

Freight infrastructure allows the freight system to operate, facilitating vital components of our economy, including production, distribution and trade.

The purpose of the freight system relates to its role in providing a service for the economy. Freight transport is a derived demand; it does not exist for its own sake. The primary demand is for the consumption of goods where there is spatial separation. Goods are generally stored, processed and consumed at different locations. There is a need for goods to move to increase their value for producers, manufacturers and consumers. Freight can be considered as the economy in motion. Goods are transported as part of the economic activities of production, manufacturing and consumption.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Freight networks provide a service for producers and manufacturers allowing access to markets for the consumption of goods. The benefit of goods being transported relates to their increased value at their trip destination. Reduced transport operation costs leads to lower production and distribution costs that creates opportunities for lower priced goods.

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Urban transport currently faces many challenges to accommodate a growing demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These challenges call for systemic solutions that leverage smart mobility management rather than simple infrastructure expansion. This subject aims to introduce foundational theory and data analysis tools to equip future planners and engineers with knowledge and skills to tackle complex urban transport problems and contribute to a sustainable future.

Throughout the semester, students will work on a project based on a real-world problem. They will need to understand characteristics of the land use and transport demand in a region; examine the existing transport options; and evaluate whether proposed solutions contribute to sustainable mobility.

Theoretical aspects discussed during lectures will be implemented and visualised during tutorials using open-source data dashboards, spreadsheets, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software. Some of the lectures will also count with industry guests presenting on how they utilise emerging data sources to guide projects and decision-making.

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This subject explores skills required for transport planners who wish to improve the economic, environmental and social performance of urban transport systems. It draws on international experience and research to articulate the principles and practical techniques in two key areas:

• Public transport planning and network design; and
• The preparation of regional multi-modal transport plans.

This subject includes a half-day field trip involving use of public transport services in a chosen suburban region of Melbourne. This trip will be undertaken in small groups in week 3 and is a hurdle requirement. Students will require a valid Myki card, and the cost will not exceed a daily ticket in Zone 1.

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There is increasing recognition around the world of the threats facing urban environments and their water resources. In many cities water demand is approaching or exceeding limits of sustainability, leading to increasing interest in alternative water sources, such as stormwater harvesting, wastewater recycling and desalination. At the same time, receiving environments such as urban streams and bays are threatened by pollution and erosion from stormwater runoff, or eutrophication due to discharge of poorly-treated wastewater. There is also increasing recognition of the importance of water in the urban landscape, and of its role in the welfare and health of humans.

The concept of “water sensitive urban design” (WSUD), also known as Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) has developed in response to these changes. It aims to better integrate water into the urban landscape, improving the sustainability and liveability of cities (for example through the sustaining of health urban vegetation), while securing adequate resources for growing cities.

This subject reflects the integration inherent in WSUD. The course will teach you about the individual urban water cycle components (water supply, wastewater, stormwater, groundwater), but will primary focus on their interactions and integration, and particularly their interaction with the built and natural environment.

The subject includes a mix of lectures and project-based learning, including a major project (broken up into stages throughout the semester), a full-day excursion and workshops involving leading WSUD experts from public and private industry. The subject will cover:

1. An introduction to WSUD (its principles, objectives, context within other urban planning and sustainability policy & practice) in developed and developing countries
2. Water in the urban landscape, the urban water cycle and its component characteristics
3. Social, environmental and economic impacts of urban water management
4. Structural tools and techniques (conceptual design, operation, maintenance)
5. Non-structural tools and techniques
6. Choice of scales
7. Analysis methods (water balance calculations, water end-use analysis)
8. Lifecycle cost analysis and multi-criteria evaluation frameworks
9. Design tools and software (e.g. MUSIC, Urban Developer, House Water Expert)
10. Institutional and implementation issues
11. Integration between water and other urban design elements

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AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of water quality and the associated standards for use as potable water, recycled water or discharge into the environment in a sustainable manner. The subject will include the identification of risks and measures to control those risks and various treatment processes including physical, chemical and microbiological treatment of water and wastewater. The concept of integrated water management will be introduced and reinforced in the group based project work throughout the semester. Students will learn about the systems for water reclamation and reuse. This subject builds on a range of student’s general knowledge of water systems engineering that is developed in subjects like Systems Modelling and Design and builds on general knowledge of chemistry and biology. It is also assumed that students have developed skills on identifying and sourcing information, and can effectively work as a team to solve larger problems.

Graduates from this subject may apply the skills developed in the water supply, waste water treatment, or water sensitive urban design areas.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

This subject covers theoretical and practical management aspects of sustainable water supply and treatment, wastewater treatment and reuse. Specific topics include:

• Integrated water management
• Risk identification and management for water services
• Water quality guidelines, regulations and performance criteria for treatment plant design
• Water treatment processes and waste disposal
• Wastewater treatment - physical, chemical and biological treatment technologies
• Systems for water reclamation and reuse.

The students will produce a conceptual design of a water and wastewater treatment system for a small town.

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In this subject, students will learn surface and groundwater hydrology with an emphasis on engineering applications. Techniques for statistical analyses of hydrological variables and mathematical modelling of hydrological processes will be introduced for engineering designs and investigations. The subject will introduce groundwater principles and modelling. Students will also acquire knowledge of surface water and groundwater quality.

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AIMS

This subject is available as an elective in many of the Faculty of Engineering and IT Masters programs. It is aimed both at students who have immediate entrepreneurial intentions and at students who may be considering starting their own business at some point in their careers. The subject is designed to introduce all participants to their potential as entrepreneurs. By developing their own enterprise proposal within small groups, students will learn and demonstrate various processes by which successful new ventures move from idea to launch.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Business modelling, opportunity analysis, value creation, financial management, sources of finance, creativity, innovation, entrepreneurial behaviour, successful engineering entrepreneurs.

TEACHING METHOD

The teaching method is based around a structured process of mini-lectures, class exercises, and active hands-on learning by doing. Intensive field research and minimum viable product development are very important to the subject. Learning is further enhanced through meetings with the lecturer and review by peers.

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AIMS

Students will learn how to structure and work with engineering contracts to deliver and procure engineering outcomes in this subject. Students will develop a working knowledge of contract administration and gain an understanding of commercial aspects of engineering. All engineers interface commercially with engineering contracts throughout their careers, and thus the application of the subject content is broad. Those seeking to work as a contractor and as a contract administrator will find a direct application of this subject’s content. Students will learn how to use procurement and contracts to develop successful engineering projects. This includes administration of the contracts and understanding the business environment where these contracts are agreed. These skills will be useful to students in their future work and apply to a wide range of engineering disciplines.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Management of engineering projects. This includes the role and responsibilities of corporate managers, market analysis, structuring of procurement options, development of contractual terms and conditions and the pricing of work.

Estimating and tendering engineering works via work breakdown structures, work method statements, risk identification and tendering principles. The study material also covers contract administration and project control functions and techniques including time and money negotiations and cash flow management.

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This subject prepares graduate engineers to practice basic marketing in the engineering profession where there is a mutual need and reliance upon their training and skills in both engineering and marketing to satisfy the needs, wants and demands of the market, internally within the organisation, and through the entire supply chain in a sustainable manner.

This subject provides an introduction to the basic concepts of marketing, marketing management and marketing engineering. Some of the principal topics include: what is marketing engineering; differences between engineering and consumer products; designing and managing engineering services; sales engineer and managing sales force; online marketing and the internet of things; business-to-business markets; business-to-government markets; company orientation; corporate division and strategic planning; market positioning, segmentation and targeting; marketing mix (product, pricing, place and promotion); marketing plan and strategies; SWOT analysis, understand the legal, economic, sociocultural, natural and technological environments; distribution channels; communications, models and simulations; decision tools; databases and data mining, forecasting; theory and evidence-based decision making; etc. The principles of sustainability will apply throughout the subject.

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AIMS

In this subject students will learn about how to evaluate the feasibility of a project and then to define, structure and organise the initial planning phase for both construction projects and complex projects (e.g. IT, high technology projects). The interaction between commercial expectations and project management approaches will be considered broadly based on process and systems thinking. The subject builds on and integrates knowledge from CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering and/or MCEN90010 Finance and Human Resources for Engineers where the fundamentals of economic appraisal is described, the planning approaches detailed in subject CVEN90045 Engineering Project Implementation and the fundamentals of risk management for which detailed approaches are provided in MULT90014 Business Risk Management. The subject is particularly important for students wishing to understand how to structure and scope projects such that they are well planned on the basis of triple bottom line thinking and the project management processes are efficiently structured.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Techniques considered include the use of logic maps, business cases and system based project management concepts. Details include the development of acquisition strategies, system life-cycle, boundaries, scope management and mechanisms to control of client expectations and assist them to make sound project decisions leading to the sanctioning of a project. Expected value and Monte Carlo techniques are used as tools to refine project decisions based on risk evaluation.

Project governance arrangements are considered along with cultural context, resourcing requirements of a project and how this is organised and managed. Specific areas considered include the selection of consultants or contractors, communication processes, industrial relations, occupational health and safety, meetings, delegation and leadership.

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AIMS

This subject provides understanding of the principles of development and sustainability in the context of renewable and non-renewable energy sources. Social, environmental and financial implications of technologies to de-carbonise emissions and technologies that can offer a future non-carbon energy supply are discussed.

This subject uses project based learning where students work in teams to investigate the appropriateness of a selected energy source or a selected technology for a particular country, region or a location. Students learn to apply the principles of sustainability and development.

Knowledge gained in this subject will allow graduates to practice in the area of energy policy and planning. The subject complements other subjects offered in the energy theme of the Department such as Solar Energy, Energy Efficiency Technology and Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

• Introduction: What does 'sustainable' mean? What is development? A model for sustainable development
• Consumption (needs versus wants), Global perspectives (inequality and resource distribution)
• Role of energy in development
• Requirements for an sustainable energy supply
• Carbon versus non-carbon energy supply - overview (resources, usage)
• Problems with past patterns of energy use
• Energy efficiency (potential and limits)
• Energy Policy
• Transport futures and peak oil (resources)
• Carbon capture and storage
• Nuclear fission and fusion
• Renewable energy technologies - large and small
• Discussion Forum: Reality of Sustainability.

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AIMS

This subject provides the application of principles of solar energy engineering. A number of solar technologies and applications methods are investigated.

This subject uses a project based learning where students work in teams to design a solar system for a particular application considering environmental, social and financial constraints. Students learn to apply the principles of solar energy and design.

Knowledge gained in this subject will allow graduates to practice in the area of renewable energy industry. The subject complements other subjects offered in the energy theme of the Department such as Energy for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

• Introduction to Solar Energy in the energy economy; Fundamental heat & mass transfer; Radiation properties of materials; and selective surfaces
• Solar Geometry and solar angles; atmospheric effects and radiation prediction; and Solar radiation measurement
• Flat plate collectors design and performance characteristic
• Concentrating collectors design and performance characteristic; Evacuated tube collectors
• Solar System design methods
• Fundamentals of photovoltaic systems
• Solar process heating
• Solar drying, Solar cookers, Green houses and Solar stills
• Solar water pumping; Solar refrigeration
• Built environment applications passive and active systems
• Solar hot water and solar heat pump systems.

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AIMS

This subject explores the scope and methods for improving energy efficiency across a range of sectors. Improving energy efficiency is one of the key responses to increasingly scarce natural resources and problems caused by pollutants arising from energy production and use. A range of energy supply and usage scenarios will be considered including transport, manufacturing, commercial and domestic sectors. Collection of information by auditing and then using this information for planning, demand management and impact assessment will be investigated.

Knowledge gained in this subject will allow graduates to practice in the area of energy efficiency. This subject draws on students’ fundamental understanding of engineering efficiency, as well as their ability to use mathematics and statistics to analyse data to inform innovative solutions. The subject complements other subjects offered in the energy theme of the Department such as Energy for Sustainable Development and Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Areas of study include: potential for improvements in energy efficiency in petrol and diesel vehicles; energy efficiency technologies for the manufacturing, commercial and domestic sectors; demand side management; integrated resource planning; energy auditing; and economic and environmental impacts.

These are applied to the following thematic areas;

• Introduction: fundamentals, energy conversion, supply, distribution and utilisation of energy, Indices, indicators and measurements
• Advanced energy systems
• Energy audits
• Manufacturing sector
• Commercial sector (office & retail)
• Residential sector
• Transport sector
• Life cycle energy analysis
• Developing countries & remote areas
• Energy policy and planning

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In this subject, students will learn underlying theory and applications of state-of-the-art positioning technologies. The subject first introduces the concept of positioning, addressing why localisation requires user-defined coordinate systems as a benchmark. An overview of global and Australian geocentric coordinate systems such as ITRF and GDA2020 is given, with a discussion on the Australian Height Datum (AHD). Distinguished from their associated technologies, the following positioning principles are taught: 1) direct observation, 2) time-difference of arrival (TDOA), 3) surveying resection otherwise known as angle of arrival (AOA), 4) spatial correspondence (e.g., fingerprinting), and 5) interferometry.

The subject focuses on high-precision positioning technologies such as 1) Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), 2) surveying digital measuring systems, 3) Inertial Navigation Systems (INS), 4) Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) localisation systems, and 5) Laser-scanning and vision-based systems. The subject is of broad relevance to students with an interest in technology or to those specifically wishing to establish a career in engineering, mining or cadastral surveying, but is also relevant to a range of mapping, spatial, civil and communication engineering disciplines where precise localisation of digital sensors should be considered.

In detail, the subject will cover coordinate transformations and conversions, high precision GNSS and trigonometric surveying, LIDAR and camera-based indoor positioning, optimisation of positioning solutions via least squares computations, precise levelling, and height determination.

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This subject will introduce students to advanced imaging technologies and the methods for extracting quantitative information from multi-source imagery. This subject builds on the knowledge of subjects such as imaging the environment, by considering multi-source images of the target to provide additional information such as the distance from the target to object from which a three-dimensional representation can be constructed. It also considers imaging of targets where illumination is provided by the instrument rather than natural light reflection or radiation from the target. Students who successfully complete this subject may find work in a variety of remote sensing or specialist consultancies or agencies. The techniques learnt may also be applied to other industries such as quality control in manufacturing or recording of archaeological sites.

The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in infrastructure engineering, civil engineering, property management, surveying, spatial information and urban planning but is also relevant to a range of disciplines where 3D building information should be considered.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This is a geotechnical engineering subject in which students will be introduced to various geotechnical engineering application topics, including the design of pile foundations, tunnels and earth dams, basics of rock mechanics, rock slope stability assessment and site characterisation. This subject is of particular interest to students intending to establish a career in geotechnical engineering; it is also relevant to a range of engineering disciplines in which a good knowledge of geotechnical engineering offers an advantage, such as structural engineering.

The subject covers pile foundations – Various pile types available in the construction field and their installation and load bearing mechanisms, design of a single pile and a pile group with considering the bearing capacity and settlement failures, rock socketed piles, laterally loaded piles, micro piles and ground improvement techniques for piling; Basic rock mechanics – Rock stresses and strength, rock failure principles, rock testing; Rock slope assessment – Apply the theories of rock mechanics on slope stability assessment; Site characterisation for foundations – Planning and implementation of a site investigation; Tunneling- Key factors in tunnel design and design processes; Earth dam design – Different types of earth Dams and their functions, key design concepts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

Students that successfully completely this subject will have the skills to practice under a chartered engineer to analyse problems and propose designs in the field of civil and environmental hydraulic engineering. Analysis of water flow in natural and constructed channels is studied in the river hydraulics module. This gives students the fundamental tools to learn techniques such as flood prediction, the design of channels for water movement in irrigation, and the prediction of water levels in channels in environmental flow studies. The movement of water and sediment along coasts due to wave action and currents is the focus of the coastal hydraulics module. An understanding of wave processes in coastal and surf zones is an essential starting point for the design of coastal structures such as piers, groins and jetties. With impending sea level rise, this will be a significant area of civil engineering practice for the foreseeable future. In the third module, the focus will be on processes of sediment transport and geomorphological change in rivers and coastal waters. The ability to analyse these processes can lead to graduates working in the area of river engineering, where for example the erosion of sediment from bridge abutments must be controlled. It is also important in ecological modelling where the movement of sediments and entrainment in water can impact on the habitat of stream biota.

The subject will draw on students’ existing knowledge of fluid mechanics, systems modelling, statistics, engineering mathematics and geomorphology gained from undergraduate or other preparatory study.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

1. River Hydraulics: revision of basic concepts of steady-state open channel flow and extend this with applications in natural river channels, time dependent behaviour and flood hydraulics
2. Coastal Hydraulics: basic wave theory and processes including in the surf zone
3. Sediment Transport and Water Quality: mechanisms and models of particulate and solute transport in rivers and coastal environments.

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In the past few years, the Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry has observed the evolution of simple 2D drafting programs into integrated Building Information Modelling (BIM) based on 3D spatial technologies. In this subject, students will learn how BIM is used to model, store and visualise architectural, structural, and facilities components of an infrastructure in 3D. Students will also learn how adding time and cost information to BIM allows AEC to foster collaboration in designing infrastructures, minimize the risk of construction errors and optimise the maintenance of them.

The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in civil engineering, property management, surveying, spatial information and urban planning but is also relevant to a range of disciplines where 3D building information should be considered.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Offshore wind geotechnical engineering aims to provide basic knowledge and current design practice of offshore wind foundations in the Australian and global context. This subject is of particular interest to students intending to establish a career in the fast growing offshore renewable energy industry. The subject will provide an overview of current offshore renewable energy technologies, characteristics of common offshore sediments and geohazards. It will cover foundation design of offshore wind structures, including loadings on foundations and design considerations, offshore site characterization techniques and soil-structure interaction. Students will also develop their technical and professional ability to work and communicate effectively in diverse offshore engineering teams through a group design portfolio of offshore wind foundation design.

The subject will cover topics such as offshore renewable energy systems, characteristics of seabed sediments and geohazards, loads on offshore wind foundation, offshore site characterization, and offshore wind foundation design.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The Integrated Design Studios focus on the successful union of architecture and engineering in building design. With strong involvement from consultants and clients from industry the studios provide an excellent opportunity to experience how design happens in practice in an environment emulating a design office. Students from both disciplines work together to develop building designs for real clients with a focus on sustainable practices, including zero carbon and renewable energy technologies. You will learn how to view design from both engineering and architectural perspectives and express ideas based in well-grounded, informed critical thinking. The studio includes basic building envelope and energy analysis components and engenders development of integrated design skills and understanding able to be employed in building designs in industry. Each studio uses a building typology specific to the industry client involved as a case study. Sustainable integrated design solutions appropriate to the building typology in question will be researched and developed throughout the studios.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

This subject provides a multi-disciplinary overview of the design of sustainable buildings and considers the design from an architectural, services engineering, facade engineering, environmental engineering and structural engineering, tenants and owners perspective. A number of industry based case study examples will be introduced to complement the lectures.

This subject uses a project based learning project where students work in teams to design a new or refurbished commercial building to improve the environmental and social performance of the building. Students learn to apply sustainability-rating tools used in industry to their solutions.

Students in the subject come from different disciplinary backgrounds, principally engineering and architecture, and are expected to share their knowledge and learn from each other to successfully complete the project work. This stands them in good stead for entering professional practice in the area of sustainability.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Topics include: ecological sustainable design, life cycle analysis, planning for sustainable buildings and cities, regulatory environment, barriers to green buildings, green building rating tools, material selection, embodied energy, operating energy, indoor environmental quality (noise, light and air), facade systems, ventilation systems, transportation, water treatment systems, water efficiency, building economics, and staff productivity. These will be covered in the following thematic areas:

• Sustainable Cities
• Sustainable Precincts
• Building Envelope
• Building services - Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
• Building services - Energy
• Building Services - water
• Existing Buildings
• Green Building Rating Tools
• ESD Drivers and Barriers
• ESD Economics
• the process of a green building - 60L CH2
• Business Perspective
• Case Studies.

View detailed information in the Handbook