Advanced Engineering Geology

Advanced Engineering Geology involves working through the difficult stages of the interfacing of engineering design and geologic conditions to assure the safety and efficiency of engineering projects and geohazards. This course is a follow-on to the Engineering Geology and Applied Structural Geology course and is closely associated with Geotechnical Engineering, including techniques and practices. Throughout this course, geologic data, techniques, and principles will be applied to analyze naturally occurring rock and soil conditions, as well as surface and sub-surface water conditions. The primary focus will be on identifying, interpreting, and addressing the geologic factors affecting the planning, design, construction, and operation of engineered structures, as well as the development of groundwater resources. The course will outline the skills necessary for functional design systems within these frameworks. There will be a strong emphasis on the utilization of engineering classification, testing, and application of earth materials. Furthermore, geohazards in structural geology and geotechnical engineering parameters in rocks and soil, along with other natural geological hazards such as floods and earthquakes, will be examined within the context of geological history. The course will explore their implications for the planning and utilization of the geological environment.