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Programme: BScHons Applied Science Geotechnics

Kindly take note of the disclaimer regarding qualifications and degree names.
Code Faculty
12243005 Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
Credits Duration
Duration of study: 1 year Total credits: 128

Programme information

The BScHons (Applied Science) degree is conferred by the following academic departments:

  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Industrial and Systems Engineering
  • Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering
  • Mining Engineering

Any specific module is offered on the condition that a minimum number of students are registered for the module, as determined by the head of department and the Dean. Students must consult the relevant head of department in order to compile a meaningful programme, as well as on the syllabi of the modules. The relevant departmental postgraduate brochures must also be consulted.

Admission requirements

An appropriate bachelor's degree, a BTech degree or equivalent qualification.

 

 

Other programme-specific information

The remainder of the credits to be chosen from the modules prescribed for the BEngHons (Geotechnical Engineering) programme, as approved by the head of department, and after completion of the appropriate modules as listed.

The modules CPB 410, CBI 410 and CSS 420 do not form part of the postgraduate block presentations. Individual arrangements have to be made with the relevant lecturer regarding attendance of lectures, study material, tests and assignments.

Minimum credits: 128

Core modules

  • Module content:

    Basic mathematical methods. Algebra. Matrices and matrix algebra. Series expansions. Differentiation and integration. Probability theory. Graphic analysis. Discrete and continuous probability distributions. Moments and expectation. Statistical sampling and experimental design. Parameter estimation. Confidence intervals. Hypothesis testing. Regression analysis.

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  • Module content:

    A research term paper will be prepared.

    Solution of confined and unconfined seepage problems using the methods of fragments, finite differences and finite elements.  Numerical solutions of consolidation problems and secondary compression.  Slope stability analysis methods.  The point estimate method.  Monte Carlo simulation.

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  • Module content:

    A research term paper will be prepared.

    Introduction to critical state soil mechanics.  Stress and strain invariants.  Stress paths.  State boundary surfaces including Roscoe and Hvorslev surfaces.  Cam clay model.  Application of geotechnical constitutive models in finite element analysis.

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  • Module content:

    A research term paper will be prepared.

    Test procedures and interpretation of; Standard Penetration Test (SPT), Cone Penetration Test (CPT), Piezocone (CPTU) and seismic methods.  Theory, application and interpretation of advanced geotechnical laboratory tests.  Laboratory Instrumentation and calibration.  Stress and strain conditions for laboratory tests.  Triaxial stress space, stress paths.  Triaxial tests, direct shear tests, oedometer test and Rowe cell test.

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The information published here is subject to change and may be amended after the publication of this information. The General Regulations (G Regulations) apply to all faculties of the University of Pretoria. It is expected of students to familiarise themselves well with these regulations as well as with the information contained in the General Rules section. Ignorance concerning these regulations and rules will not be accepted as an excuse for any transgression.

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