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ENG311 - Geomechanics

2025

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Engineering

Credit Points

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

SMA209, ENG212 and ENG267

Unit Description

Geomechanics involves the study of the behavior of soil and rock. This unit addresses geomechanics as used in civil engineering practice. This unit covers the formation of natural soil deposits, engineering properties of soils, soil exploration, soil compaction and stabilisation, water in soil, stress distribution in soil, consolidation of soil and settlement of structures, shear strength of soil, shallow foundations, pile foundations, drilled caissons, lateral earth pressure, retaining structures, stability analysis of slopes.
This unit is reliant on on-line materials including electronic submission of assessment items. Students must have access to a reliable high-speed broadband connection and a scanner.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Identify common rock-forming minerals and related rocks.
2.	Classify soils based on laboratory test results.
3.	Analyse the behaviour of rock and soil properties.
4.	Analyse stresses in soil under various conditions.
5.	Design various footing/retaining structures based on geotechnical requirements.
6.	Determine how altering soil conditions can influence soil properties.
7.	Select appropriate procedures for laboratory testing, and interpret the results in relation to the field practice.
8.	Use effective communication methods to convey ideas and principles.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Site investigation report #1 (2 pages)	5%	1,3,6,7,8
2.	Laboratory reports #2, #3, #4 (3 x 2 pages)	15%	2,3,4,5,6,8
3.	Problem Solving Exercises (2 x 4 pages)	15%	1,4,5,6,7,8
4.	Mid-semester test (90 mins)	30%	1,2,3,4,5,6
5.	Final Test (2 hours)	35%	2,3,4,5,6

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2025	Semester 1	Internal	Casuarina Campus	OLR	View
2025	Semester 1	External	External Studies	OLR	View

* Timetable will be displayed in new tab or window depending on your browser's configuration; ensure Pop-ups are allowed for this site to view the timetable.

OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
Fees and Payments
Student Services and Amenities Fees
2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
2025 Incidental Fees (PDF)