Engineering Geology

Module Description

This module introduces the learner to Engineering Geology, Geomechanics, and Soil mechanics. It focuses on the mechanical nature of rocks and soil and provides an explanation of the processes by which the rocks and soils are formed and how they behave as engineering materials. An important consideration is the hazards associated with geological features and rock/soil exaction in construction. The understanding of stresses in rock and soils and the interaction between human activity and the ground are the basis of this module. From this, the learner will begin to appreciate the technologies available to investigate and understand geohazards, to gain an appreciation of the interaction of the physical environment on development and how impacts can be recognised, eliminated, or mitigated. 

By the end of this module, the learner should understand the different rock and soil models commonly used in geotechnical assessment. This should serve as a gateway to various disciplines such as the civil engineering, mining and minerals engineering, surface and underground construction, and environmental fields with, for example, structures such as tunnels and surface rock excavation requiring geotechnical expertise to enable safe design.

Target Audience

This program caters to individuals interested in enhancing their academic and professional understanding of Geology and Earth Sciences.

Persons seeking to or working in:

• advance their academic and professional knowledge of Geology and Earth Sciences;
• advance their academic and professional knowledge of rocks, namely, classification, testing, and use in industry;
• the construction and quarrying industry;
• pursue a career in Geology and Earth Sciences;
• geotechnical laboratories seeking to advance their knowledge and position.

Career Paths

The potential positions for which this programme aims to prepare could be and are not limited to:

• Professional Geologist
• Geological technician
• Manager of geotechnical laboratory
• Consultancy
• Court Expert
• Environmental auditor and Environmental Impact Assessment expert

How you’ll be assessed

The programme comprises a total of 8 modules. The method of assessment is assignment-based.

The course comprises:

•  Lectures per module depending on the number of ECTS (twice a week);
• 3-hour lectures;
• 12 hours of guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos;
• Assessment may consist of field work carried out in specific location/s in the Maltese Island;
• Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.

Assessment

The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.