2015 CESA Subject Guide

2015 Subject Guide
For Civil Engineering Students

At
The University of Queensland
31 January 2015
Contents

Contents ................................................................................................................................................. 1
About the guide ..................................................................................................................................... 3
About CESA .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Your 2015 Exec ..................................................................................................................................... 5
How to Join ........................................................................................................................................... 6
New Subjects for 2015 .......................................................................................................................... 9
Subject Guide ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Second Year Compulsory Subjects Semester 1 ............................................................................... 11
Second Year Compulsory Subjects Semester 2 ............................................................................... 17
Third Year Compulsory Subjects Semester 1 .................................................................................. 22
Third Year Compulsory Subjects Semester 2 .................................................................................. 26
Fourth Year Compulsory Subjects .................................................................................................... 31
Advanced Electives Both Semesters ............................................................................................... 34
Advanced Electives Semester 1 ...................................................................................................... 37
Advanced Electives Semester 2 ...................................................................................................... 47
Your GPA/Honours (Students Pre 2015) ............................................................................................. 56
GPA/Honours Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Program - 2015 Enrolments ............................. 57
Subject List .......................................................................................................................................... 58
Choosing Other Electives .................................................................................................................... 60
Other Resources ................................................................................................................................... 61

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Published By
The Civil Engineering Student Association (CESA)
Of The University of Queensland
Level 4, UQ Union Complex
St Lucia, QLD, 4067
First Published: 18 February 2013
Disclaimer
The Civil Engineering Student Association (CESA) of The University of Queensland provides this Subject Guide as a
service to our members. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its contents, we disclaim absolutely any
and all liability for any detriment that occurs as a result of errors, inconsistencies, omissions and/or ambiguity in the Guide.
Excluding student opinions, all information in the Guide has been sourced directly from Civil Engineering School staff, as
well as UQ EAIT facilities. Student reviews and results summaries are based on previous course offerings and may not
accurately reflect changes to course content and administration for 2015 and future years. The values used for grade
distributions are an approximate value and should not be judged as perfectly reflective of the grading curve. Any views
contained herein do not represent the views of the authors of the Guide, nor any affiliated parties. Reliance on the Guide is at
the users own risk.
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About the guide

The annual Civil Engineering Subject Guide has been compiled by interviewing Civil
Engineering students with regards to their thoughts on subjects they have recently studied.
The Guide is intended to be used by undergraduate students to assist them in preparing for the
semester ahead, as well as choosing electives.
Although we have made every effort to get a fair representation of student opinions, there is
always going to be ambiguity, hence why this is only a guide. Similarly, different lecturers
will teach differently and different cohorts have different abilities. As such, grade
distributions, as well as subject difficulty and content, can vastly change from year to year as
part of the schools continuing devotion to improving student learning.
It is important to remember that just because you do an easy course does not mean you will
be able to get a 7 with no effort. Similarly if you do a hard course, there is every possibility
that you will still do well. From an outsiders perspective it appears The Civil School has a
grading policy that is reflective of not only how you as a student achieve, but also how you
achieve relative to everyone else in the subject. As with anything in life, you will only get out
what you put in.
In addition to this advice, the Civil Engineering Subject Guide will aim to provide students
with other essential information, whether that be how to calculate your GPA or finding out
the date of the famous CESA Pub Crawl. We are always looking for ideas, so if you have
something to contribute, please do not hesitate to get in touch with anyone on the CESA
team, and we will be more than happy to oblige.

Thanks to our 2015 CESA Supporter, HYDAC
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About CESA

The Civil Engineering Student Association (CESA) is UQs only civil engineering society,
and is open to all students. Each year we have offer a wide range of social events for students
and in 2015 some of our plans for you guys are:
Planned Events for 2015:
Semester 1
Graduate Careers Fair (Week 1)
EUS Semester 1 Launch Party (Week 1)
Skirts/CESA Croquet Day (Week 3)
CESA Pub Crawl (week 6/7)
Industry Seminar (TBA)
Semester 2
Graduate Careers Fair (Week 1)
EUS Semester 2 Launch Party (Week 1)
CESA Ball (Week 3/4)
Major Guest Speaker in AEB (Week 6)
CESA sponsored sporting teams in UQIC sports (all semester)
UQ Engineering Ball (TBA)
Paying of Homage to the Graduating Class of 2015 (TBA)
Graduation Dinner for Class of 2015 (TBA)
Other Civilised plans for 2014:
Industry seminars (free bbq/beer!)
Civil Merchandise
The Paying Homage to the Graduating Class has been a much anticipated event every year
and did not disappoint in 2014. We can confirm that Beers were sold for $1 each, Basics $2
and Goon was $0.50. There was also an abundance of free food and fantastic company all
around!
So if forces and moments are your thing, and you want to overcome the stresses and strains of
soil and fluid, then dont be a square hollow section and be part of something more concrete.
With plenty mohr events install, you really should brace yourself for a solid time and of
course, stay civil.
From all your Exec,
Stay Civil!

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Your 2015 Exec

President
Michael Lucas
[email protected]
Vice President
Matthew McLean
[email protected]
Secretary
Keshini
Preeyadarshanan
[email protected]
Treasurer
Andrew Tierney
[email protected]
Social Officer
Caroline
Robertson
[email protected]
Careers Officer
Cassie Dai
[email protected]
Media Officer
Jonathan ClarkJones
[email protected]

Feel free to contact us on [email protected]
The Civil Engineering Cudas, UQIC Rugby Team
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How to Join

If you cant wait until market day, or missed us, it is now easier than ever to
join!
Membership for 2015 is $15 which includes;
CESA Membership ($5)
EUS Membership ($10)
You can sign up anytime either online at www.uqeus.com.au or by sending an
email to [email protected].
Even if you only turn up to one of our events, we guarantee youll get your
moneys worth in free drinks, food and vac work socialising opportunities!

CESA 2014 Pubcrawl in Semester 1
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New Subjects for 2015

Every year there are some new courses in Civil Engineering and these courses are unchartered
territory for students. In 2015, there is only one new course and below you can see some of the
basic information regarding its contents and requirements. It is recommended that if you have a
further interest in this course that you contact the School of Civil Engineering for more details.
CIVL4522 Construction Engineering Management (Semester 2)

Course coordinator
Contact Hours
TBA
2L + 2C
Prerequisites
Incompatible
CIVL3510
REDE1300, CIVL4520, ENGG4900

Construction technology and construction design processes; project scheduling and control;
Engineering economics, tendering, bidding and procurement; contracts and contract law; workplace
regulations; occupational health and safety; companies and company law.

CESA Graduation Dinner 2014

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Subject Guide
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Second Year
Compulsory Subjects
Semester 1
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Environmental Issues, Monitoring & Assessment [CIVL2130]

Difficulty Rating:
The following information is based on previous student feedback and previous year course profiles. Please note that
courses are subject to change and that student opinions are subjective and will vary.
Course Coordinator: Dr Badin Gibbes
Lecturer: Dr Badin Gibbes
Recommended Prerequisites: MATH1051 + MATH1052
Assumed Background: Nil.
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 1.5L 1T
1 Unit Course
Assessment:
Weekly Online Quiz (5%)
In Class Problems (20%)
Project 1 Sustainable System Case Study (12.5%)
Project 2 Environmental Data Assessment (12.5%)
Final Exam (50%, MCQ, Short Answer)
Course Outline:
Engineers, professionally and as members of society, encounter environmental issues either directly or by way of
regulations and workplace practices. They are also at the forefront of designing and implementing many of the
changes needed to manage impacts and lead to sustainable development. This course is an introduction to the more
significant environmental issues and their management that are commonly encountered such as: Population and
urbanisation issues; climate change, air and water pollution; biodiversity and sustainable development.
Advantages:
This course will open your eyes on a variety of issues that affect us both locally and globally. This introductory
course gives you a taste of the key environmental challenges that engineers face. It is one of the favourite courses
among students as the subject matter is stimulating and the lectures are very well presented. The content, whilst fairly
extensive, is not conceptually challenging, and lecture slides are clear and detailed. There are a number of
opportunities to offer and receive course/assessment feedback, and the lecturers a very approachable. The weekly
online quizzes have an unlimited number of attempts.
Disadvantages:
The exam is a huge memory test. It is not just a matter of recalling general facts, but students seeking higher grades
will require a deep understanding of most of the concepts, and will likely have to recall very specific facts/figures.
Assignments are done in two-person groups, which can often present various challenges, and assignment marks can
take some time to get back. The course is only worth 1 unit of study.
Tips:
The assignments are easy to do well in if you put in the time and effort, but having good excel (and
potentially Matlab) skills will certainly be an advantage.
The information for the weekly online quizzes are worthwhile reading, however will not be assessed as
strongly as the lecture content.
In-class clicker questions and the practice paper are very good indicators of the type of exam questions.
The best way to study for the exam is to memorise all the lecture slides, if you do this the exam will be easy.
Dr Gibbes designs his questions to purposefully mislead students read them very carefully.
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Structural Mechanics [CIVL2330]

Difficulty Rating:
The following information is based on previous student feedback and previous year course profiles. Please
note that courses are subject to change and that student opinions are subjective and will vary.
Course Coordinator: Dr Vinh Dao
Lecturer: Dr Vinh Dao
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400 + MATH1051 + MATH1052
Assumed Background: Basic first year engineering principles
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 3L 1T
Assessment:
Weekly Tutorials (11%)
Mid Semester Exam (24%, Problem Solving)
Final Examination (65%, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This course introduces students to some fundamental aspects of the mechanics of structures. The course
content provides a basis on which advanced analysis and design skills are developed in later semesters. The
course uses a lecture-tutorial teaching format (3L+1T per week). Attendance of these lectures and tutorials
is essential for mastering the concepts and techniques that will be introduced throughout this course.
Advantages:
The course is engaging and interesting. Lecturers are comprehensive and clear. The tute questions and past
papers are very useful for learning content, and the assistance provided by lectures and tutors in tutorials is
very good. The lecturers put aside a lot of time during exam periods to assist students with past exam
questions. The course is setup to give students the best compromising grade from the mid-semester and final
examination, so do not be too severely concerned if you do not perform as well in the mid-sem.
Disadvantages:
This is the first hard Civil Engineering course most people will encounter. Most students feel the
assignments are severely underweighted for the amount of time they take; however, they are marked on
effort and are an excellent way to learn lecture concepts. Before you start this course you will need to revise
ENGG1010/ ENGG1400 because the whole course is assumed knowledge (in the past watching ctscivil
youtube videos have helped students a lot in the first few weeks). The final exam is marked in a way that if
the lectures see you have not understood the theory of the question, then you may not receive part marks.
Tips:
The final exam is similar from year to year but unless you know all the theory you will not be able
to do them. Start past exam questions as early as possible to take full advantage of tutorial times.
Do not get caught out by the mid-sem; it is very early in semester and can be time constraining,
however, if you are well prepared it will be easy.
Lacking preparation has caused many students grief in past mid-sems with more than half of the
class failing it. But have no fear, if you put preparation in you will do exceedingly well.
At first it may seem the course content is taught very rapidly, however it does progressively slow
down, and there is often time set aside for revision.
Many students in the past have used online programs/youtube to learn certain aspects of this course
(Mohrs circle, slope-deflection theory etc). Do not be afraid to try different avenues of learning.
The EAIT faculty runs a metalearning program with this course that is voluntary. It is highly
recommended that you complete all parts of this as it gives you a bonus 2% mark which is
invaluable.
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Traffic Flow Theory & Analysis [CIVL2410]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Mahmoud Mesbah Namini
Lecturer: Dr Mahmoud Mesbah Namini
Recommended Prerequisites: Nil.
Assumed Background: Knowledge of basic statistics and mathematics.
Incompatible: CIVL3410
Contact Hours: 2L 1T 1P
Assessment:
Assignments x5 (30%)
Participation (5%)
Final Exam (65%, MCQ)
Course Outline:
This course introduces students to the field of traffic engineering, with a focus on road traffic flow theory and
analysis. The course emphasises the need for good planning, design and operation of transport facilities in order to
improve safety, efficiency, cost effectiveness and minimise adverse social and environmental impacts. The course
covers basic traffic flow theory; traffic surveys and data collection; design of intersections, traffic signals and
roundabouts; traffic operations and evaluation of traffic projects.
Advantages:
You will never look at roads the same again. This course has a relatively small workload and if you put in the effort,
you will get good results in the end. The content is relatively interesting overall, but it very much depends on how it
is presented.
Disadvantages:
There have been some students unhappy with the assignment marking scheme. It is also difficult to study for the
exams as all you have to go off is the assignments and lecture slides (the course has changed in recent years and
therefore library exams are not much help). Do not turn up to lab sessions expecting to learn all the lecture content
and the full answers to the assignments; you will need to find good tutors (you might need to go to different sessions)
and have done some prior preparation to get anything out of them.
Tips:
The assignments are marked meticulously by the criteria sheet. In this way, you should ensure that you
follow it very closely if you want the top marks for assignments.
The 5% participation mark for tutorials and lecture is a very large gift from Dr Mesbah, given that he
provides two chances for you to miss attendance, you should make a big effort to get the full marks for this
assessment.
The final exam is entirely MCQ however it is quite extensive. Many students will struggle to finish it on time
and you should be wary of this in your preparation.
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Calculus & Linear Algebra II [MATH2000]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Yao-zhong Zhang or Dr Phillip Isaac
Lecturer: Dr Yao-zhong Zhang or Dr Phillip Isaac
Recommended Prerequisites: MATH1051, MATH1052
Assumed Background: You will need a working knowledge of the topics covered in MATH1051 and
MATH1052.
Incompatible: MATH2001
Contact Hours: 3L 1T (5L 2T for summer semester)
Assessment:
Assignments x5 (15%)
Mid Semester Exam (20%, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
MATH2000 covers four major topics: ordinary differential equations, integral calculus, vector calculus and
linear algebra. The student will acquire a strong knowledge base of the fundamentals of each topic and be
able to apply these concepts to solving a wide variety of problems. As a consequence of this course
covering such a broad range of topics, the student can expect to end the semester with an essential
mathematical toolkit at their disposal.
Advantages:
There is a lot of practice material, lots of tutes, past exams and practice questions. Some concepts are a little
tricky, but try and get them under wraps earlier rather than later, because they all build on each other and are
assessed throughout the course. No surprises when it comes to assessment, and the course is very well
structured.
Disadvantages:
MATH2000 was just like the other maths courses, but obviously the content got harder. In Semester 1 2012,
the final exam was completely different to past exams. Be very careful of cramming the course content, or
intending to disregard particular types of questions in the final exam (expecting that you will just ace the
others).
Tips:
Do the past exam papers and the tutorials (even though they are hard at first). If you can do the past
exams, there will be no surprises with the style of questions in the final exam.
The summer semester course is excellently taught and quite manageable if you do not mind putting
in the required work during the holidays. Try and save the extra 2# you have spare for 3rd and 4th
year, as the 2nd year work load is fairly manageable without the need to drop a subject. Consider
taking a non-engineering elective (ie. ERTH1501) in 2nd Year and an advanced elective in 1st
semester 3rd Year (ie. MINE4000).
Keep a handle on the differential equations and matrices relationships from your math courses, they
become very useful in 4th year advanced courses.
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Analysis of Engineering & Scientific Data [STAT2201]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Richard Wilson
Lecturer: Dr Richard Wilson
Recommended Prerequisites: MATH1050 or Year 12 Maths C
Assumed Background: The course requires an understanding of calculus and algebra as given in MATH1050. A
little understanding of matrices and multiple integration is helpful but not essential. It is a student's own
responsibility to fill in any gaps in their assumed knowledge. You may need to undertake background reading to
understand the lecture material.
Incompatible: ECON1310, ENVM200, STAT1201, STAT1301, STAT2203
Assessment:
Tutorial Session x8 (35%)
Online Quiz x3 (6%)
Final Exam (60%, Short Answer)
Bonus - Complete Course Evaluation (1%)
1 Unit Course
Course Outline:
The course introduces statistical analyses of engineering data, with emphasis on the nature of data and engineering
case studies, and covering sampling, exploratory data analyses, experimental designs, probability modelling with the
normal distribution, point and interval estimation, tests of hypotheses, analysis of variance and regression, all in the
context of a statistical package.
Advantages:
The notes are comprehensive enough that you can learn the course at home. You deal with interesting models and
scenarios, particularly in the later parts of the course that have real world applications. Because you get to use
computers, this course is all about your understanding, not about spending hours calculating trivial things like zscores etc. The prac style assessment is an excellent way of learning the course content (and what will actually be
assessable on the final exam), and is easy way to generate marks if you put in the work and preparation. The final
exam is extraordinarily similar to past papers, and is relatively easy if you put in the work.
Disadvantages:
The lectures are not stimulating and most students only attended a handful of lectures. The lecture notes, whilst very
comprehensive, can be hard to decipher at times make sure not to get bogged down in the finest details of the course
content or highest level of understanding. The tutes are worth 5% each, so if you do not prepare sufficiently then you
may suffer a significant blow to your final score.
Tips:
The lectures for this course may get dull relative to your other engineering courses, but in the end the lecture
material and the examples are very important to know if you want to get top marks in this course.
Pay attention in the prac lessons as they are the best learning tool for this course. Make sure you prepare, to
the extent of completing the entire prac beforehand, so you can be assured of your marks and have sufficient
time to check answers with tutors. The pracs can be very time constraining otherwise, if you do not prepare.
Do as many past papers as possible, and get them done as soon as possible to allow you to have more time to
ask questions and to ensure all your methods are correct.
Read the lecture notes as an overview, and do the weekly summary questions as a practice whilst they are
annoying and fairly boring, they do save you a lot of time later in the course and in pracs.
Statistics is your friend in 3rd and 4th year courses, try your best to grasp it now.

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Second Year
Compulsory Subjects
Semester 2
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Fluid Mechanics [CIVL2131]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr David Callaghan
Lecturers and Teachers: Prof. Tom Baldock, Dr David Callaghan, Prof. Hubert Chanson and Assoc. Prof. Peter
Nielsen
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400 + MATH1052 + MATH200
Assumed Background: Entry requirements to the School of Engineering plus university courses in mechanical
physics and calculus. The course assumes that students have knowledge of 1st Year level engineering statics and
dynamics or have completed ENGG1400
Assessment:
(Note: there are assessment changes for students repeating the course)
Weekly Tuts (15%)
Lab Reports (20%)
Final Exam (65%, Short Answer, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This is an interesting and important introductory level course dealing with the properties and behaviour of fluids in
usual civil and environmental engineering applications. You will learn introductory fluid mechanics through actively
participating in lectures, solving problems during tutorials and conducting laboratory experiments as a team, as well
as through informal group work and independent study.
Advantages:
Very interesting and rewarding course, with excellent coverage of important fluid topics that will also help you
develop problem solving skills. Worked solutions provided after each tutorial submission (occasional gaps in logic
however). Pracs do help to reinforce lecture content. Lectures are recorded, and the lecture notes themselves are also
very useful. Tutorial questions themselves are very challenging, but excellent preparation (especially for open book
similar to exam questions) and have good feedback. Textbook is very good and there is a good access to tutors.
Disadvantages:
Like most fluid courses, undoubtedly quite difficult due to the different type of content/problem solving. It is agreed
by most civil students that this is the hardest course of 1st/2nd year. Nielsen is the best in the world in his field,
however this means he can sometimes rush over simple concepts. Callaghan is good lecturer for teaching the
content, but sets notoriously hard tutes and exams. Recommended pre-reading is useful but hard to maintain. Lecture
notes contain both worked examples and proofs; however there can often be gaps in logic or interpretation
difficulties. Pracs are long and intensive, and pre-lab work is compulsory. Past papers are abundant, with some
similarity, however all are difficult. Not the sort of course that can be crammed in a day or two - requires extensive
study and preparation of personal notes.
Tips:
The exam is open book.

Even though the tutes seem near impossible, at least attempt them because every mark counts in this course.
Keep your old math books handy because there is a lot of integration that you will have forgotten.
Textbook is very useful, and is the basis for the lecture notes, some tutorial questions and charts/values etc.
You can never do enough practice questions for this course a wide variety of questions and attempts covers
your bases in the exam. Textbook has heaps of questions and check CIVL3130 for past papers.
Many students referred to previous-year lecture recordings of CIVL3130 (with A/Prof Tom Baldock) as his
explanations helped to give a more tangible/practical understanding of the content (which was similar).

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Reinforced Concrete Structures & Technology [CIVL2360]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Liza O'Moore
Lecturers: Dr Liza O'Moore, Dr Johnny Ho
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400, CIVL2330. Not to be done in first year.
Assumed Background: ENGG1400, CIVL2330
Incompatible: CIVL2510, CIVL3320, CIVL3360
Assessment:
Lab Report (Pass/Fail)
Online Quiz- Structural Mechanics x1, Concrete Technology x4 (Pass/Fail)
Tutorial Exercises x4 (10%)
Mid Semester Exam - Concrete Technology (30%, MCQ)
Final Examination - Reinforced Concrete Design (60%, Short Answer, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
The undergraduate degree places a strong emphasis on the design of concrete structures and concrete
technology. The purpose of the course is to introduce the students to the design of basic reinforced concrete
elements. The course content forms the basis on which advanced reinforced and prestressed concrete design
skills are developed in later semesters. The particular aim of the concrete technology component of this
course is to familiarise students with the technology of concrete, the most widely used civil engineering
construction material.
Advantages:
Very interesting and well-taught course, with very applicable content. The practical classes are stimulating
and are good at providing a practical understanding of the learning concepts. The tutorial questions and past
papers are very helpful when studying for the final reinforced concrete exam, and should be attempted and
thoroughly understood as soon as possible, as the content builds on itself. Make full use of the tutors and
lecturers, as they are very helpful and knowledgeable.
Disadvantages:
The lecture notes themselves are not overly useful when you are looking back at them, so it is very important
that you pay careful attention in lectures (or re-watch the video recordings) and make your own notes as a lot
of the terms and explanations are not written down. Tutorials are reasonably challenging (the 3rd tute on
detailing is one of the hardest tutes you will ever do), and are worth minimal marks but are essential for
learning the course content. The mid-semester and final are hard if you do not put in the effort beforehand.
Tips:
Use the mid-semester break for Make sure you allocate study time for the mid-sem exam, as it is
critical to your final exam (if you get a 5 in the mid-sem, the highest mark you can get overall is a
6). The online quizzes are the best practice, however some general reading of the textbook is
recommended.
The only way to learn this course is to attend all lectures and do all assignments, reading lecture
slides/past exams will not be enough to do well. Make sure to do a lot of past papers.
You will need steel-cap boots, safety glasses and a white card (get a cheap one, they are all the
same) for this course. They are all good investments for future vacation work and courses.
Learn this course well and make good notes (particularly on the code and for the tutorial on
detailing). You will definitely use the theory taught in this course for 3rd and 4th year design.
The AS3600 code you will use in this course is a maze. Learn how to use it and annotate/mark
important clauses and pages for the exam and for future reference.
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Introduction to Structural Design [CIVL2340]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Hamid Ronagh
Lecturers: Dr Hamid Ronagh, Mr Hassan Baji
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400 + CIVL2330
Assumed Background: It is assumed that students have already passed statics and a basic structural analysis course,
are familiar with the stresses, bending moment and shear force diagrams and are capable of calculating the reactions
and forces on a free body using equilibrium equations.
Incompatible: CIVL2320, CIVL2310
Contact Hours: 2L 1T 1C
Assessment (the 4 best of the 5 assignments will count towards your grade):
Assignment 1 - Design Methods (8%)
Assignment 2 Wind Loading (8%)
Assignment 3 Tension/Compression (8%)
Assignment 4 Bending (8%)
Assignment 5 - Combined Actions (8%)
Final Exam (65%, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
Structural engineers usually work in either consulting or construction companies. The sort of jobs that they do in a
consulting office depends on the specialisation of the company but is usually related to the design of some kind of
structure. It may be a low-rise residential building, a high-rise hotel, a coastal or a marine structure, or the design of
an industrial shed. It may be in timber, in steel, in reinforced concrete or a combination of all. Nevertheless, the
concepts are the same. Structural engineers are capable of designing any kind of structure. This course is designed to
introduce students to the concepts and the process involved in a structural design.
Advantages:
The lectures are broken up into components of review, new material and example problems. In mastering this course
you need to understand all the components together and not just singular sections. The course will give you a new
understanding of structures, particularly in the first half of the course; and you will begin to get your first taste
structural engineering as you are introduced to load paths, wind loads and Australia Standards for design. The course
content is split into two halves, so the content taught before the mid-sem may not be assessed in the final. The
tutorial sessions are good for questions, and the contact sessions are fantastic. The assignments and mid-semester are
easy if you know what you are doing, and are worth a lot of marks.
Disadvantages:
In previous years many students had issues with the consistency of their assignment marks and had to go and get their
marks fixed up. This course is traditionally scaled down after the final exam and leaves students doing worse than
expected. The marking scheme for the final is also quite harsh, if the markers see you do not fundamentally
understand some of the major concepts, than you will not receive any part marks check your work and make sure
you know what you are doing. Make sure you do well in the mid-sem exam, as students who rely solely on the final
exam mark may end with scaling. Due to a lack of time in the course, some assignments were skipped in 2013 and
marks redistributed. Take charge of your own learning and make use of the tutors/lecturers.
Tips:
The codes are essential for the course make sure not to annotate them, otherwise you will not be able to
bring them into the exam room.
The contact sessions are essential as they will show you how to understand design codes and how to apply
them to questions.
Past paper questions, contact questions/examples and tutorials are the best way to study for the mid-semester
and final. Make sure to work through questions with the code, as you can bring it into the exam.
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Fundamentals of Soil Mechanics [CIVL2210]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Alexander Scheuermann
Lecturer: Dr Alexander Scheuermann
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400 + MATH1052
Assumed Background: ENGG1400 + MATH1052
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Online Quiz x4 (8%)
Lab Report (12%)
Mid Semester Exam(20%, MCQ)
Final Examination (60%, MCQ)
Course Outline:
All built structures are founded on the ground. Soil Mechanics is therefore an essential element in the design
of the built environment, whether it forms the foundation of structures or it is used as building material,
such as for embankments and dams, cuttings, roads, channels and waterways, railways, mining
infrastructure or waste disposal facilities. Soil Mechanics provides a common language for describing the
nature and engineering behaviour of soils. It describes the theoretical and empirical framework on which
geotechnical engineering design is based.
Advantages:
Alex is one of the nicest people you will ever meet. He gives out past exam answers, has hundreds of worked
examples to practice on and brings a fun side to a subject that is otherwise very dry (pun intended). The first
half of every lecture is always spent going over exam style questions, there are plenty of tutorial/quiz
questions and there are numerous revision sessions and other opportunities to ask questions. All of this is
huge help come exam time. The pracs are reasonably interesting and all the assessment is fairly manageable.
Disadvantages:
Sometimes the content can feel rushed and you are unsure of what to copy down, however by exam time it
will all click. Some of the conventions can also be confusing, so be sure to do plenty of questions and check
worked examples to get some consistency. The course is not extremely difficult, however there are some
technical concepts that can confuse students and make getting top marks a challenge.
Tips:
You are allowed a 1 sided A4 cheat sheet for the mid-sem and a 2 sided A4 cheat sheet in the final.
The exams are 50% theory questions and 50% calculation questions. The calculations are an easy
way to get marks if you have all the formulas on your cheat sheet.
The lab report prac is really easy and is a good opportunity to get easy marks, just make sure you
follow the criteria.
Make sure to study for the mid-sem, as it is very similar to the final and the marks are substantial.
Make sure you are 100% clear on what tables will be provided in the exam as this has left students
with no way to answer questions in the past.
Tutorial sessions in the past have often been replaced by lectures (or parts of lectures), so dont
simply choose to ignore them because you think it will be a Q&A session.
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Third Year
Compulsory Subjects
Semester 1
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Catchment Hydraulics: Open Channel Flow & Design [CIVL3140]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Prof. Tom Baldock
Lecturers: Dr David Callaghan, Prof. Tom Baldock
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400 and CIVL 2131 or CIVL3130
Assumed Background: Students are expected to have a sound knowledge of principles of continuity,
energy and momentum; understand the fundamental principles of fluid flow motion; and programming (e.g.,
Matlab) skills.
Assessment:
Laboratory Report (18%)
Field Report (9%)
In Class Quiz (8%, MCQ)
Final Examination (65%, MCQ, Short Answer, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This course provides an introduction to the analysis of steady open channel flows (free-surface flows) and
the design of hydraulic structures that convey these flows. A wide variety of free surface flows occur in the
natural and built environment, ranging from tranquil river flows to flash floods and from quiet backwaters
upstream of weirs to intense turbulence in energy dissipaters downstream of spillways and on stepped
spillways. This course builds on students' previous knowledge of fluid mechanics, particularly the concepts
of conservation of mass, momentum and energy and head loss due to friction, introduced during the study of
flow in closed conduits in CIVL3130/CIVL2131 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics.
Advantages:
Prof. Baldock very clearly steps you through all the topics with numerous in-class examples. The tutorial
questions are very good practice for reinforcing the topics learnt in class. Towards the end of the course you
begin to look at real world applications of fluid mechanics (culverts) and go on a field trip to see a culvert
system that was designed by one of the lecturers at UQ.
Disadvantages:
The practical sessions are reasonably time challenging and theory intensive, and so it is hard to get very high
marks. Do all the preparation beforehand, to the point where you even start filling in values, and choose your
groups well. The field trip report is also marked quite harshly, so be very sure to be clear and comprehensive
but concise in your submission. Dont have 5 pages of appendices and massive paragraphs when the criteria
sheet specifically says a 2-page submission with a nice diagram. Make sure you revise the course content
before going on the field trip as it will make your data recording and submission so much simpler.
Tips:
The first 6 weeks of the course teaches you the fundamentals and it is really important that you have
these down, as the rest of the course is applying those fundamentals. If you pay attention at the start
of this course, than it will be less intensive compared to leaving everything until exam time it
really is just a matter of staying up to speed.
The tutes are often very poorly attended after the first few weeks and can be a good way to get a lot
of tutor help if you are struggling with any concepts.
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Geotechnical Engineering [CIVL3210]

Difficulty Rating:
The following information is based on previous student feedback and previous year course profiles. Please note
that courses are subject to change and that student opinions are subjective and will vary.
Course Coordinator: Dr Robert Day
Lecturer: Dr Robert Day
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2210
Assumed Background: CIVL2210 - A basic understanding of soil mechanics topics including: Concepts of
stress, Total stress, Pore pressure, Effective stress, Long term and short term concepts, Seepage and
Consolidation, Mohr circles, Failure criteria.
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 2L 1T 1C + (1 lab prac session)
Assessment:
Online Tutorial Quiz x5 (25%)
Laboratory Experiments (5%)
Final Exam (70%, MCQ)
Course Outline:
This course continues the development of soil mechanics theory and its application to geotechnical analysis and
design. Application of soil mechanics knowledge to geotechnical engineering analysis & design. Retaining
walls; shallow footings, piled foundations; slope stability; embankments on soft clay; basement excavations;
dynamic pile testing; site monitoring.
Advantages:
The course takes off exactly where soil mechanics finishes. If you figured out a good way of studying for soil
mechanics, this course is structured very similarly. There are lots of chances to pick up easy marks i.e. labs,
online quizzes. Lecturer is very good at explaining the course content. Example calculations are shown in class
and student response quizzes are also included in the classes. Tutorial sheets are the same every year, with the
values slightly changed, and the solutions are typically provided for previous years. Online quiz questions can be
printed out and feed directly off the tutorial questions. Make sure to compare your answers and ask questions to
the lecturer if you are slightly unsure as they are worth substantial marks.
Disadvantages:
The lecture notes will only really make sense if you were at the lecture or you are following along with lectopia.
If you try to learn the course purely off Dr. Day's notes they will look like Egyptian hieroglyphs he does not
follow the official notes/course program during lectures. The course can be quite dry at times and tutorial
sessions are mostly Q&A sessions, although Dr Day will happily explain questions and content to you if there is
time.
Tips:
The final is multi-choice. Past exams will be useful, but do not rely solely on these, do the tutorial
questions as well. Go over the course notes, as there will be a certain number of theory questions that will
not be asked beforehand.
The final exam is difficult in that it requires an understanding of processes, not just facts. This is crucial
to know as the incorrect answers will be misleading.
The theory you will learn in this course will be very useful in future years and your career and your
course notes will be very useful for the retaining wall assignment in 3rd year design.
Aim to get in a laboratory session towards the end of the semester when you know a bit more. Some of
the lecture content that is drawn upon in the prac is not introduced until the end of the semester (dont
worry if you miss out, as the lab is still quite easy). Make sure you have a good understanding of the
concepts presented in the lectures, as the pracs tend to focus on these.
The tutorials are a good consolidation of the lecture content, which can be dry, but has crucial examples.

24 | P a g e

Structural
Analysis [CIVL3340]
Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Johnny Ho
Lecturers: Assoc. Prof. Faris Albermani, Dr Johnny Ho
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1400 + CIVL2330
Assumed Background: ENGG1400, CIVL2330, MATH2000
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Weekly Tutorials (10%)
Computer Exercises (5%)
Mid Semester Exam (15%, MCQ)
Course Outline:
This course introduces students to the modern concepts and techniques of structural analysis. Structural
analysis is essential for achieving a safe, efficient and economical design. The course uses a lecture &
tutorial teaching format (3L + 1 T per week). Attendance of these lectures and tutorials is essential for
mastering the concepts and techniques that will be introduced throughout this course.
Advantages:
Challenging course that extends on the techniques and theory learnt in structural mechanics. If you figured
out a good way of studying for structural mechanics, this course is structured very similarly i.e. learning
processes not just solutions, assignments marked on effort etc. Assignments are very good learning tools,
and tutorial sessions are very useful. Lectures have numerous worked examples. This is a really interesting
course for those interested in structures, as it introduces students to structural systems and shows the theory
behind programs such as Microstran and Spacegass.
Disadvantages:
Course requires considerable amounts of time and is easy to fall behind in. Mid semester exam is difficult,
covers a lot of content and tests you on unfamiliar questions. There is a lot of mathematics involved,
particularly with the use of matrices, so you might need to do external study to catch up.
Tips:
Professor Albermani may be going on leave for 2015 and may not be taking this course, so it could
be expected to change slightly with the new lecturer.
This courses requires a lot of matrix multiplication, inversions and determinants. You must know
how to do these quickly and well for the final, which usually has one trick question in it.
Assignments and past exams are the best way to study for the final, but every year expect that there
will be a "twist" amongst the questions.
Lectures are full of worked examples and changed yearly, so try and get hold of previous year
lecture slides to get further worked examples.
Approximate analysis is not normally tested in the final exam but is a major component of 3rd year
design. Do your best to understand relative stiffness and the theory now.
The Spacegass/Microstran assignment is easy but takes a bit of time. Get it done early, when you
have no assessment, as it can be a pain to have over your head around the middle of semester.
Use excel to check your matrix multiplication for the direct stiffness and matrix flexibility methods
(research the excel function MMULT) this will save you a lot of time.
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Third Year
Compulsory Subjects
Semester 2
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Catchment Hydrology [CIVL3141]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Prof David Lockington
Lecturers: Prof David Lockington, Dr Badin Gibbes
Recommended Prerequisites: MATH1051, MATH1052
Assumed Background: MATH1051, MATH1052
Incompatible: CIVL3120; CIVL2140
Assessment:
Online Quiz (0%, Formative)
Project Report 1 - Catchment Inspection (10%)
Mid-semester Examination (25%, MCQ, Short Answer)
Project Report 2 - Catchment Flood Design (20%)
Final Examination (45%, MCQ, Short answer)
Course Outline:
Hydrology is the study of the distribution and fate of water as it progresses through the water cycle. Water is
essential for life - drought and famine can be the disastrous consequences of having a less than expected supply
of water. Conversely, flooding from too much water can cause loss of life as well as damage property and
infrastructure. Scientists and engineers are continually trying to improve our understanding of the processes that
distribute water so that we can better anticipate water flows from catchments, especially the extremes of low and
high flows, and design appropriate infrastructure and water management plans.
Advantages:
The course on the whole is fairly easy and interesting most of the time. You will learn a lot about everyday
weather events and touch on flood modelling and catchment reactions. Some of the module questions are clearly
not relevant to examinable material and therefore even though you need to be able to understand the general
concept of the question for the MCQ parts of the course, you can cut down on things you need to study. The
lecture slides are quite clear, and there are plenty of practice questions and material to learn some of the harder
concepts (level pool and channel routing). Occasionally, worked examples are completed in lectures, along with
non-assessed clicker questions, which can be very helpful. The learning modules are referred to throughout the
semester to ensure you are following up with the content.
Disadvantages:
At times the course content can get boring and repetitive, and as a result you wont always pay full attention.
Some of the flood modelling concepts can be difficult to understand at the start and therefore you will need to rewatch lectures as the tutorial answer sheets arent very useful if you dont know what you are doing. There is also
a grading matrix for this course that combines examination and coursework components that you must be aware
of.
Tips:
Professor Lockington tends to waffle on in his lectures, although they contain useful information. It is
mostly worth going when Dr Gibbes is providing an assignment or revision session.
The learning modules may seem difficult when you go through them the first time, but they are in fact
very helpful in learning the lecture material.
The modules and past exams are the best study for the final exam. Note that this was originally a 2nd
year course, so the questions have gotten harder and involve more in-depth theory.
In lecture clicker questions/online quizzes rely heavily on past exam questions and key concepts.
The projects are completed in groups of 3-5, so its best to get a good study group to work through the
course. They are peer assessed, with bonus marks associated with the peer assessment.
In 2014, the course was restructured, this generally leads to a change in difficulty in the subsequent year,
so be prepared for any new changes.
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Introduction to Project Management [CIVL3510]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Prof. Tom Baldock
Lecturer: Miss Danielle Lester
Recommended Prerequisites: 1st and 2nd year Civil Engineering compulsory courses
Assumed Background: 2 years of Civil Engineering study
Contact Hours: 1L 2W
Assessment:
Case Study - Process and Procedure in Planning (20%)
In Class Quiz - Project Management and Leadership Theory (10%)
Project Plan - Tender Response (20%)
Project Report (30%)
Weighted Peer Assessment
Final Examination (MCQ, Short answer, Short essay, Extended essay, 20%)
Course Outline:
The course provides an Introduction to Project Management within the construction industry applicable to
Civil Engineering. As a Site/Project Engineer working on Major/Mega Civil Engineering projects an
engineer is required to manage their own projects whilst also performing fundamental civil engineering
tasks. This course will prepare students with the tools required to manage and deliver complex civil
engineering projects in accordance with federal and state regulations, current legislation & within budget.
The course will require Individual assessment and group assessment. This course will prepare students by
developing the professional skills required to operate as part of a project team. Students will complete the
course with knowledge of the fundamental concepts and tools required to manage a project in industry.
Advantages:
This course was run for the first time in 2014 and is the first project management course you will take in
your degree. The lecturer Miss Lester is a project manager from in the industry so will teach your courses
slightly differently to the academics as you might expect. On a whole the course is quite straightforward, the
clicker quizzes are very easy and a good way to get your grade up. The course lectures are usually cut short
to 30 minutes and can probably be tackled using lectopia. The final exam only makes up a small part of this
course but is quite straightforward and a good way to bump your mark up.
Disadvantages:
Miss Lester tends to regurgitate what is on the lecture slides, so dont expect a huge amount of new content
in the lectures. Some students complained that she was unclear on what expectations existed for assessment
due to a lack of criteria sheets until after the assessment was due. The largest issue overall was that as a new
course it faced many hiccups which impacted students who were used to very planned and organised courses.
Tips:
Just under half the class had their project assignments sent in for plagiarism checks for lacking
referencing and taking report templates from other sources. It should be very clear, do not
plagiariseespecially in this class.
If you have any questions regarding the course, it is recommended you ask Miss Lester herself, as
the tutors were often misleading or were not clear on requirements.
Most courses tend to be scaled in difficulty in their second year of running, so do not expect a
cruisey ride in 2015.

28 | P a g e

Structural Design [CIVL3350]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Assoc. Prof. Ron Blackwell
Lecturer: Assoc. Prof. Ron Blackwell
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2340, CIVL2360, CIVL3340
Assumed Background: This course is intended for students in their 3rd year of study. It is assumed that
students will have sound background in structural mechanics, analysis and general structural design of
concrete and steel structures.
Contact Hours: 1L 3P
Assessment:
Design- Acoustic Barrier (10%)
Design- Retaining Wall (15%)
Design- Portal Frame (35%)
Final Exam (40%, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This course consolidates and expands on introductory material previously studied and introduces structural
design of complete elements and building frames. This is achieved by a series of group based design
assignments in reinforced concrete and structural steelwork.
Advantages:
Dr Blackwell is a legend - his lectures are fun and interesting. The group assignments are generally 3-5 people
and the work load is fairly manageable if it is spread out between the group members. Dr Blackwell and the
other tutors are very helpful and approachable, and always happy to answer questions (however Dr Blackwell
and Dr Mullins take a notoriously long time to answer questions and very often go on a tangent). You will be
forced to learn a lot of real-life structural design content in a short space of time, and this is very rewarding in
the end.
Disadvantages:
No blackboard! Despite the lectures not being assessable and being used to teach general principles, rather
than the assignments directly, there are key points in them that you need to be awake for. The course requires a
lot of group work and is fairly time/work intensive. The first two assignments you are assigned groups, but for
the last assignment you choose for the last one.
Tips:
For the past few years the course was run as a 4hr block. The 1st hr is purely the lecture, the next 3
hours are for group work and for asking questions. Many groups leave half way through and organise
separate meeting times.
The group for assignment 1 and 2 is assigned to your by Dr Blackwell alphabetically, whereas you
can choose your group for assignment 3.
The final exam is open book, although you will need to watch your time management as you need to
do a lot of calculations in only 2hrs.
Past exams are a very good study guide when used in conjunction with the assignments as Dr
Blackwell has run this course very consistently across the past 10+ years..
As a part time lecturer, Dr Blackwell is not frequently at the university. He can also be difficult to
contact via email, so make sure you are prepared with your questions for the workshop each week.
Professor Kitipornchais textbook is essential for the portal frame assignment. At least one person in
your group must have it. Students have used past editions and coped, however it is best to buy the
book early from online book stores when its really cheap (not at the end of semester).
29 | P a g e
Transportation Systems Engineering [CIVL3420]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Mahmoud Mesbah Namini
Lecturers: Dr Mahmoud Mesbah Namini, Prof. Philip Charles, Assoc. Prof.Adam Pekol, Prof. Mark
Hickman, Dr Neema Nassir
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2410, STAT2201
Assumed Background: Knowledge of basic statistics and mathematics. Completion of CIVL2410 (Traffic
Flow Theory) or similar course is highly recommended.
Assessment:
Participation - Clicker Questions/Tute Attendance (5%)
Assignment - Travel Demand (15%)
Assignment - Public Transport (5%)
Assignment - Road Safety (5%)
Assignment - Highway capacity and LOS (5%)
Assignment - Highway Design (5%)
Course Outline:
This course introduces students to a number of topics in transport engineering and emphasises the need for
good planning, design and operation of transport facilities in order to improve their safety, efficiency and
reduce their environmental impact. Students are introduced to the process of urban transport planning and
travel-demand forecasting, principles of public transport, the fundamentals of road safety, and basic road
design variables which are vital to the successful design and operation of the road system.
Advantages:
You will learn a lot about the design of transport systems, and you will not look at roads the same again.
The course also sets you up to do very well in advanced traffic as a possible elective in fourth year, if this
field of study interests you.
Disadvantages:
The course can get very dull at times, however it is important to remember you receive marks just for turning
up. There are not many realistic practice questions given for students in the lecture to gauge what to expect
on the exam. The safety module of the course is very rushed, and so it is very hard to gauge what will be and
what will not be on the exam.
Tips:
The tutorial sessions often showed you a directly relevant example for the assignment and therefore
it is important to listen in those sessions.
You will be pushed for time during the exam so make sure you can do practice questions quickly
and take note of questions that are very quick and easy to do, versus ones that require more
iterations.
The 2014 exam was based heavily off the assignment questions; these are the best practice for the
final. Refer to past papers and past resources for similar, theory multi-choice questions.
In 2014, the assignments were all done in groups of 3, and all the people must be in the same
tutorial. Keep this in mind for when signing on for your tutorials.
30 | P a g e

Fourth Year
Compulsory Subjects
31 | P a g e
Civil Design I, II/III

[CIVL4514 & CIVL4515 OR CIVL4516]
Difficulty Rating:
Semester 1 [CIVL4514]:
Course Coordinator: Dr Liza O'Moore
Lecturers: Dr Liza OMoore, Assoc. Prof. Adam Pekol, Dr Ron Blackwell, Dr Robert Day
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2360, CIVL3210, CIVL3140, CIVL3350, CIVL3420
Assumed Background: It is assumed that students will have a sound background in structural analysis, concrete and
steel design, transport engineering, hydraulics and hydrology, and geomechanics.
Incompatible: CIVL4510 or CIVL4530 or CIVL4513 or CIVL4511 or CIVL 4512
Contact Hours: 1L 3C
Assessment:
Sketch Hand Drawn Sketch (2%)
Workbook (10%)
Design - Interim/Phase 1 (23%, peer assessed)
Design - Final/Phase 2 (50%, peer assessed)
Final Examination (15%, Short Answer, Problem Solving, Sketching)
Course Outline:
This is a capstone design course, and as such, the course provides the opportunity for integrated engineering design
involving focusing on, but not exclusively on, aspects of structural engineering, transport engineering and
geotechnical engineering. Students, working in teams, undertake a major interdisciplinary civil engineering design
project. This course requires students to move beyond traditional undergraduate courses and to engage with real
engineering problems. You will be expected to independently draw on and use knowledge and skills attained during
the first 3 years of your BE studies, tackle the sorts of ambiguous and open ended design problems that you will
encounter when you enter the workforce, as well as locate, interpret and assimilate information that you have not
previously encountered - just as your employer will expect of you when you enter the workforce. This course will
require students to capitalise on learning from their previous years of Civil Engineering study to independently
establish design parameters and deliverables, to work both independently and as a group to research design solutions
and to proactively manage their team performance.
Advantages:
You get to work as part of a team to design a concrete building (usually a carpark). This is a good course to learn
how to pull an all-nighter (or several) to get your designs right. Not many people fail the course because your grade
accurately reflects how much effort you put in (i.e. it does not matter so much if you have a brain fart and bomb the
final exam). The lectures are also very interesting, typical of Dr Blackwell, as well as other guest lecturers such as
the head of school. Plenty of resources are also available on blackboard and in contact sessions.
Disadvantages:
This subject will cause many late nights, and changes to the assessment as well as a lack of information/
understanding will be frequent and painful. You will likely be required to keep an individual logbook of all your
workings, as well as information pertaining to all aspects of your teams project, not just the parts you completed. The
1L 3C is run much like CIVL3350 in a 4 hour block. In the contact sessions, Dr Blackwell takes a notoriously long
time to answer questions and will very often go on a tangent, so be prepared to wait in a long line for a while to get
your questions answered.
Tips:
Pay attention to blackboard and the course profile before the semester starts, as there may be some assessment
due the very first day of the course!
Pay particular attention during the ethics in engineering lecture, as this is usually not recorded, and will have
exam questions pertaining to it.
Use your contact session time wisely with the specialist tutors, as they may not always be there week to week.
Find a good group, plan your time wisely, delegate tasks evenly, and try to get a long for the semester.
32 | P a g e

Semester 2 [CIVL4516]:
Course Coordinator: Prof. David Williams
Lecturers: Prof. David Williams, Mr Benoit Wentzinger
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL3210, CIVL3140, CIVL3350, CIVL3420
Assumed Background: Assumed background includes core geotechnical, hydrological and environmental
course material.
Incompatible: CIVL4510 or CIVL4530 or CIVL4513 or CIVL4511 or CIVL 4512

Assessment:
Workbook (10%)
Preliminary Design (15%)
Tailings Storage Facility Design (15%)
Final Design Report (20%)
Oral Presentation (10%)
Final Examination (30%, Essay, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
Advanced civil engineering design projects; philosophy of design & selection of systems; risk assessment;
integrated design primarily focusing on hydraulics, coastal, environmental and geomechanics
Advantages:
You get to work again as part of a team to design a building (can be the same or different team of your
choosing). The lectures provide a great resource, as well as the questions related to the design brief.
Disadvantages:
This subject will cause many late nights, and changes to the assessment as well as a lack of information/
understanding will be frequent and painful. In past years, the project for this semester has taken on many
forms, from working with architects (who are known for often producing unworkable designs), to working
with a hydraulics engineering project, and in 2014, producing a Tailings Storage Facility. Specialist
knowledge in certain fields that you have may cause you to overcomplicate problems; the project is designed
so that theres an even playing field across all students. The 1L 3C is run much like CIVL3350 in a 4 hour
block, and will likely run similar to the first semester.
Tips:
In semester 2, there may be the opportunity for a limited number of high achieving students to work
with architects on a more advanced project (CIVL4515), however this is subject to change and is
not confirmed at this stage.
Make sure to answer what is asked for in your submissions directly, but also that you form a
cohesive submission as a group.
The exam will likely cover the core concepts associated with the project, as well as a few
calculations. Past exams arent particularly helpful.
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Advanced Electives
Both Semesters
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Research Thesis [CIVL4580 & CIVL4582]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Joe Gattas
Lecturer: Nil.
Recommended Prerequisites: Permission from Head of School and #46 Units of BE Program
Assumed Background: A good understanding of 1st, 2nd and 3rd year courses relevant to the research
project topic. The course should be done in the final two semesters of the degree.
Incompatible: CIVL4560 or E2430 or 2449 or 2450 or 2453
Contact Hours: 1C 3P
Assessment (slightly negotiable):
Participation (15%)
Library Skills Assignment (5%)
Literature Review (5%)
Seminar (15%)
Thesis (60%)
Course Outline:
Students undertake a study or small research thesis in small groups. The research thesis may only be
undertaken individually with the agreement of the Supervisor. There are no usual forms of lectures or tutorials
in this course. Students are required to contact/ meet academics to find a suitable thesis. A list of available
thesis/ projects is available on the School of Civil Engineering website: http://www.civil.uq.edu.au/UGRDproject. It is highly recommended that the students contact academics directly to find a suitable thesis and it
the responsibility of the student to choose an appropriate thesis topic and an academic supervisor.
Students will meet their respective supervisors (NOT the course coordinator) regularly to ensure the
successful completion of the research project. Students submit individual thesis reports at the end of the
semester.
Advantages:
Great chance to investigate something you want. This course gives you a lot of freedom and a taste of what a
researchers life is like. If you are one of those people who leave assignments to the last minute, do not think
anything will change - this means the first few weeks are a free pass but after that you will go crazy. This
course has the highest percentage of 7s out of any civil course, if you work hard on this course it can make a
large difference to your GPA.
Disadvantages:
This is not something you can leave to the last minute, you have to be constantly working on this subject
otherwise you will go insane trying to finish it at the end of semester and will fall behind in other subjects.
Tips:
If you are interested in this type of subject, you can either chose to do a yearlong thesis (CIVL4580 &
CIVL4582) or a semester long project (CIVL4560).
If you pick an analytical topic (instead of experimental) you will have less of a time constraint.
Try talking to potential supervisors you are interested in working with early, as least to check if they
are supervising students that year and what topics they are interested in.
A thesis runs over two semesters.
35 | P a g e
Project [CIVL4560]
Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Joe Gattas
Lecturer: Nil.
Recommended Prerequisites: Completed all third year subjects.
Assumed Background: A good understanding of 1st, 2nd and 3rd year courses relevant to the research
project topic. The course should be done in one of the final two semesters of the degree.
Incompatible: CIVL4580 or CIVL4582
Contact Hours: 1C 3P
Assessment:
Participation (15%)
Report (7.5%)
Literature Review (7.5%)
Project Report (70%)
Course Outline:
Students undertake a study or small research project in small groups or individually. There is no formal
lecture or tutorial in this course. Students should contact academics in his/her area of interest (i.e. structural
engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering or coastal and
hydraulic engineering) to find a suitable project. Project supervisor is the main contact person as the
students are required to meet his/her respective supervisor regularly for the smooth completion of the
project. Students must submit individual thesis documents even if the project is assigned to a group.
Advantages:
Great chance to investigate something you want. This course gives you a lot of freedom and a taste of what
a researchers life is like. If you're one of those people who leave assignments to the last minute, don't think
anything will change, this means the first few weeks are a free pass but after that you will go crazy.
Disadvantages:
This is not something you can leave to the last minute, you have to be constantly working on this subject
otherwise you will go insane trying to finish it at the end of semester and will fall behind in other subjects.
Tips:
If you are interested in this type of subject, you can either chose to do a yearlong thesis (CIVL4580
& CIVL4582) or a semester long project (CIVL4560).
If you pick an analytical topic (instead of experimental) you have less of a time constraint
The coding aspects to similar other modeling/coding courses can make the course easier if you have
done these courses before.
A project runs over one semester
36 | P a g e

Advanced Electives
Semester 1
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Ground Water & Surface Flow Modelling [CIVL4140]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Prof. Ling Li
Lecturer: Prof. Ling Li
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2140, CIVL3140
Assumed Background: It is assumed that all students: have a sound knowledge of the basic principles of mass,
energy and momentum conservations from fluid mechanics; have basic computer skills and are familiar with
standard software and computer programming languages (e.g., MatLab). Students should have completed the
earlier undergraduate courses on fluid mechanics, hydraulics, hydrology and numerical methods.
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Project (60%)
Final Examination (40%, Short Answer, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This course primarily aims to introduce students to the use of models to explore physical (and chemical if time
permits) processes associated with groundwater and surface water flow and contamination. Modelling plays a
major role in much of engineering work, especially in water resources and environmental engineering.
Advantages:
The course is designed to be interesting if you are good at coding, it can be a very worthwhile elective. The course
is structured so that your results will directly reflect the effort you put in.
Disadvantages:
The project takes a lot of time to complete and involves coding in Matlab, which in itself requires significant time
commitments (and self-driven research/practice) to learn. If you struggled with Matlab in first year, you will need
to put in the hard yards to complete the project in time. However, the software is incredible useful in industry
particularly hydraulic engineering.
Tips:
Stay on top of the assignment and you will do well in this course.
The coding aspects are similar to other modelling/coding courses and can make CIVL4140 easier if you
have done these courses before.
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Introduction to Fire Safety [ENGG3700]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Professor Jose Torero
Lecturer: Professor Jose Torero
Recommended Prerequisites: At least #16 in engineering.
Assumed Background: Students are not expected to have any specific background knowledge other than
a very basic understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, dynamics, statics and solid
mechanics (as per typical 1st year courses)
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 3L 1T (+1 Fieldtrip)
Assessment:
Mid-Semester Examination (30%, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This course provides an introduction to the design of a fire safety strategy. A fire safety strategy is
applicable to any form of infrastructure or process. This course focuses on the built environment but it
suitable to those interested in fire safety for transport systems (aircraft, trains, etc.), processes
(manufacturing, petrochemical, energy, etc.) or environmental (wild land, waste processing plants, etc.).
This course covers all the basic principles used to analyse the performance of infrastructure/processes/
systems when subject to a fire.
Advantages:
This course was run for the first time in 2014, by the Head of School, Professor Torero. This is currently
the only course in civil engineering that offers the opportunity to get a better a look at fire safety
engineering. The aim of the course is not to come out as a fire safety professional, but gain an insight in the
importance of the field, and to be able to recognise situations where a fire safety engineer would be
required. The mid-semester exam is open book and quite easy, so make sure you use it as an opportunity to
get your grades up.
Disadvantages:
This course is covered in three hour blocks and lectopia is not available. The most complex part of this is
that the difficult content is covered at the end of the lectures, so be sure to be alert and taking notes right to
the end of each class. In 2014, the tutorials were only released the day before they occurred, making
preparation difficult.
Tips:
The final exam was much more difficult than anyone anticipated in 2014. To make sure you do not
get stumped by it you must understand how to do multiple derivations with ODEs.
Professor Torero is the leading expert in fire engineering in Australia and is an excellent lecturer.
Even if you had zero interest in fire engineering, this course would be enjoyable purely by his
lecturing.
This course has no specific pre-requisites, but it will be to your advantage if you have done
ENGG1500 or at least some thermodynamics.
This elective tends to be so popular that around 50% of the cohort chooses it as their 3rd year
elective.
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Advanced Fluid Mechanics [CIVL4160]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Professor Hubert Chanson
Lecturer: Assoc. Prof. Peter Nielson, Dr David Callaghan
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL3130 or CIVL2131, MATH2000
Assumed Background: The course is a professional subject in which students are expected to have a sound
knowledge of the fundamental principles of fluid flow motion and their applications, have basic computer skills and
are familiar with standard office software. Students must have successfully completed the core course in fluid
mechanics in Year 2 (CIVL2131 Fluid Mechanics for Civil & Environmental Engineers) or Year 3 (CIVL3140 or
equivalent). It is assumed that all students have: a sound knowledge of the basic principles of continuity, energy and
momentum; understand the principles of fluid drag and the importance of boundary conditions. This course is an
advanced fluid mechanics elective.
Assessment:
Wind Tunnel Project (35%, Compulsory)
Final Examination (65%, Short Answer, Problem Solving, Essay Response)
Course Outline:
This course provides an introduction to the challenges presented by the real types of flow encountered in many
Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering applications, ranging from those in classical hydraulic problems
to extreme wind loads on buildings. The analysis of these complex flow patterns requires a sound understanding of
the fundamental relations governing fluid flows. This course builds on students previous knowledge of fluid
mechanics, revisiting some topics in more detail and introducing new advanced contents relevant to the behaviour of
real fluids including two and three dimensional flow motions. In brief, the course topics include: ideal flow
(potential flow theory), flow net analysis, boundary layer theory, and fluid-structure interactions.
Advantages:
Previous students have said they have learnt a lot from this course, as it useful in teaching students how to apply
advanced concepts. Small class sizes make the learning process very one-on-one. Final exam is said to be reasonable
in comparison to the rest of the course. While the lecturers are willing, there is no certainty of lectopia being used, as
rooms are often too small to have video recordings.
Disadvantages:
There is a group project that you will have two weeks to do.if you survive you are the chosen one.
Tips:
The final exam is similar difficulty to the tutes.

Final Exam is open book and 3 hours long.
Fluid courses are naturally challenging due to the nature of the content. However, given the skills and
concepts you eventually learn, these types of course are very rewarding and professionally, very useful.
40 | P a g e

Numerical Methods in Engineering [CIVL4250]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Dorival Pedroso
Lecturer: Dr Dorival Pedroso
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2210, CIVL3210, CIVL3340
Assumed Background: Soil Mechanics, Computer programming, Continuum mechanics, Geomechanics,
Structural mechanics, Geotechnical engineering, Advanced soil mechanics, Advanced Geotechnical
engineering
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Computer Exercises (50%, Fortnightly)
Final Examination (50%, Short Answer)
Course Outline:
Numerical methods are tools for approximating solutions of problems that may have complicated
deductions or cannot be analytically solved (closed-form solutions). The problems considered here are
defined from other disciplines such as structural, soil and rock mechanics. To solve these problems, a
rational framework has to be adopted. The most common framework employed for these disciplines is the
Continuum Mechanics. Particularly the concepts of temperature, stress, strain, and linear elasticity are
considered. This course presents numerical methods for applications in different fields of Civil
Engineering; but with a small focus on Geomechanics. It will include a comprehensive computer
implementation of a number of numerical methods in addition to applications in heat transfer, equilibrium
and dynamics of solids and fluid flow through porous medium (e.g. soils).
Advantages:
Course builds on the concepts of soil mechanics as well as some of the structural concepts with the use of
coding and numerical models. For the final; if you memorize all the summary notes and know how all the
methods are formulated and the relevant theory, the exam is manageable. No major programming or
calculations involving calculators are required for the final exam (apart from knowledge of basic python
syntax).
Disadvantages:
If you struggle with computer programing this course can quickly get on top of you and you will find it
hard to do well. Previous students have found that the notes are gone through very quickly in lectures and
that there is not much assistance provided when it comes to exam preparation (ie. reading through one past
paper, providing no answers).
Tips:
You will not be given past exam answers, so there is the potential to do very well if you put the
time into this course, however if you do not put in the time, or check you past exam answers with
peers, it can be difficult to do well as you will be practicing with wrong answers.
There is a lot of programming involved in the course, similar to Matlab. Doing other
modelling/coding courses can make CIVL4250 easier if you have done them before.
Read the summary notes provided, to the point of memorizing them.
Know how all the various methods were formulated and the theories behind them (ie. weighted
residuals).
41 | P a g e
Geotechnical Investigation & Testing [CIVL4270]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Professor David Williams
Lecturer: Professor David Williams
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2210, CIVL3210
Assumed Background: Assumed backgrounds are the content of courses CIVL2210 and CIVL3210
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 2L 2T 1P (+ Fieldtrip)
Assessment:
Assignment 1 - Planning a Geotechnical Investigation and Testing (17.5%)
Assignment 2 - Design of a Soil Cover of Mine Tailings (17.5%)
Final Examination (65%, MCQ, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
The course covers; the purpose of geotechnical investigation and testing; geotechnical site investigation methods,
including test pitting, drilling, soil sampling, rock coring, in situ testing, cone penetration testing of soil profiles,
and geophysical testing; planning a geotechnical investigation and testing program; laboratory testing methods for
soils and rocks, their applications and limitations, and their interpretation; geotechnical parameter assessment.
Advantages:
There is a two day fieldtrip and everyone loves a fieldtrip! The course teaches all the major site investigation
techniques (sampling, drilling etc.). Like all soil courses the content is very practical and hands on.
Disadvantages:
To get top marks for this course you still need to put in the same amount of effort as any other advanced elective.
Although the content is interesting, the workload can leave you swamped if you do not knuckle down and start the
practical report early.
Tips:
Be careful with the mid-sem holidays field trip and make sure you do not make other plans after you sign
on.
In 2014, the final exam was closed book and consisted of 30 MCQ's (50% of exam) and 2 Problem-Solving
questions (50% of exam).
Assignments 1 and 2 are performed in the same groups consisting of about 5-6 students.
42 | P a g e

Advanced Structural Engineering [CIVL4331]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Johnny Ho
Lecturer: Dr Johnny Ho
Assumed Background: Design of statically determinate reinforced concrete beams and the analysis of
simple beams, continuous beams and portal frames.
Assessment:
Assignment 1 - Prestressed Concrete Structures (15%)
Assignment 2 - Neutral Axis of Composite Sections (3%)
Assignment 3 - Design of Steel & Concrete Composite Beams (6%)
Assignment 4 - FRP Strengthening of Steel & Concrete Composite Beam (6%)
Final Examination (70%, Extended Essay, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
The course studies Fundamental principles of prestressing; materials and systems for prestressed concrete;
loss of prestress; design of simple and composite beams; secondary moment; concordant cable; linear
transformation; design and construction of prestressed concrete bridges and portal frames. It further looks
at an introduction to composite structures; design of steel-concrete composite structures; Introduction to
bonded structures; design of FRP-concrete composite beams; design of FRP-steel composite beams.
Advantages:
The lectures can be very interesting and expand upon what is in the pre-reading and lecture material, so it is
worthwhile to attend lectures. Being an advanced course, the course covers topics previously not covered
by other courses, so this could offer new areas of interest or study to you, especially if youre interested in
doing a project/thesis in structural engineering.
Disadvantages:
Being a new course in 2014, this course can be expected to change a bit for 2015, so be prepared. The
readings can sometimes be a bit dry, and are only expanded upon in lectures, unless youre prepared to ask
questions about them during lectures. The assignments can be quite challenging the first time around, so
dont leave them to do at the last minute.
Tips:
Take note of the different weightings of assignments, noting that they may not always reflect the
amount of work youll have to put into them.
Keeping up to date with the workload throughout the semester will put you in a good position for
the final exam.
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Engineering of Small Buildings [CIVL4320]

Difficulty Rating:
This course has been set to undergo a restructure for 2015.

Expect changes to previous years.
Course Coordinator: Dr Vinh Dao
Lecturer: Dr Peter Mullins
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG4320, CIVL3340
Assumed Background: Structural mechanics (CIVL2330), introductory structural design (CIVL2340), and
structural analysis (CIVL3340). It is recommended that students have either passed, or are concurrently enrolled in
CIVL3350.
Assessment:
Design assignment A Architectural (7%)
Mid semester exam (18%, MCQ)
Design Assignment B Structural (20%)
Course Outline:
The course studies the structural engineering design of low rise buildings. It covers problems and techniques
associated with design and construction of buildings of timber and masonry. The course addresses building
regulations, loads, foundations, framing concepts, material properties and detailing. In tutorial exercises each
student will design a building to satisfy site and building function criteria and then develop a preliminary structural
design.
Advantages:
Gain valuable, applicable knowledge about house design, as well as construction. Mid-semester examination and
final examination are said to be manageable, it is your assignment marks that will ultimately determine your final
grade. Very useful in helping to learn Australian Standards/Codes, however this process is very self-driven.
Disadvantages:
Semester assignment is based on designing a house, and thus, whilst practical, can be quite time intensive. From
previous years, there was a requirement for all drawings to be done in pencil, by hand so students may require
specialty pens and tracing paper.
Tips:
The course, whilst not overly complicated, does require a significant proportion of time and thus could be
better suited for a semester with a lesser workload. Recommended prerequisites and assumed background do
remain as described
The assignment is very useful in studying for the mid-semester examination.
The assignment was broken up in two parts: Part 1 Architecture/Design and Part 2 Engineering &
Construction Outline.
You will feel like you can design a house at the end of this course.
44 | P a g e

Mine Waste Management & Landform Design [MINE4000]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Professor David Williams
Lecturer: Professor David Williams
Assumed Background: While a basic knowledge of mine waste management and landform design would
be a distinct advantage, it is not essential.
Incompatible: CIVL4220, CIVL4240, CIVL7290, MINE7000
Contact Hours: 1L
Assessment:
Assignment 1 - Improving Density and Strength of Tailings (25%)
Assignment 2 - Facilitating Waste Rock Dump Closure (25%)
Final Examination (50%, half MCQ, half Short Answer)
Course Outline:
The Course is presented in 13 convenient modules, each contained in PowerPoint presentations, with the
following key underlying themes:
1. Conveying key geotechnical knowledge and understanding related to mine waste management
and rehabilitation.
2. Promoting lateral, critical analytical thinking of mine waste management and rehabilitation
issues.
3. Promoting problem-solving skills in mine waste management and rehabilitation.
Advantages:
Minimal contact hours. Professor Williams is an industry leader in tailings and teaches the content in a way
that is directly relevant to the real world. There are 6 formative quizzes during semester that become a great
resource when studying for the final exam.
Disadvantages:
To get top marks for this course you still need to put in the same amount of effort as any other advanced
elective.
Tips:
Professor Williams has the nickname Good Guy David because he will look after you in the
final exam.
This is a good course to take if you are looking to work during the week and dont want to be at
uni much.
45 | P a g e
Sustainable Built Environment [CIVL4180]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Professor David Lockington
Lecturer: Professor David Lockington
Recommended Prerequisites: Completion of all compulsory 3rd year Civil courses
Assumed Background: Students are expected to have successfully completed three years of the Civil Engineering
degree
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Online Test - Open Book Midsem (20%, MCQ)
Project Report - Thermal Performance of a Dwelling (15%)
Course Outline:
This course develops the scientific and engineering skills necessary to design energy-efficient and sustainable
buildings and built environments. The course covers fundamentals of heat and mass transfer within and through the
building envelope, active and passive modifiers (including green roofs and walls) and exchanges with the
surrounding environment. Sustainable approaches to supporting transport and water and waste infrastructure in the
context of the building set within a precinct will also be studied. Current sustainability certification schemes are
presented and discussed critically (e.g., Green Star, LEED, BREEAM).
Advantages:
The concepts and calculations done are fairly straight forward and easy to understand so learning the basics of the
course isnt too difficult.
Disadvantages:
Being a fairly new course, it was not structured the best. The assignments were incredibly time consuming and were
done on a program called Design Builder which students felt was irrelevant and frustrating. The final exam was
based on very specific questions from the course content and therefore hard to do well in.
Tips:
It isnt recommended to take this as a bludge subject as there is a lot of work involved
This course was taught for the first time in 2013 and is still open to slight tweaks in 2015. It is recommended
to contact Prof. Lockington if you wish to know more about this course.
In 2014, not one single person got a 7 in this course, so if you are looking for the top grade, you better bring
youre A-game.
46 | P a g e

Advanced Electives

Semester 2
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Industrial Wastewater & Solid Waste Management [CHEE4012]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Stefano Freguia
Lecturer: Dr William Clarke & Dr Stefano Freguia
Recommended Prerequisites: CHEM1020 + (CHEE2003 or CIVL3130 or CIVL2131 or MINE2101)
Assumed Background: Although there is no specific background required, the course is aimed at third and final
year engineering (particularly Environmental, Civil and Chemical Engineering) students who have an interest in
water, solid waste and environmental process technologies. A good understanding of process engineering principles
and basic chemistry is helpful.
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 5C
Assessment:
Workshop Presentation (5%)
Workshop Report (15%)
Peer Review (10%)
Field Trip Report - Wastewater (P/F)
Field Trip Report - Landfill (5%)
Tutorial Work (5%)
Solid Waste Report (20%)
Course Outline:
The delineation between solid waste and wastewater management is an operational definition rather than a definition
based on the waste itself. Landfills, incineration and tailings dams are all technologies that are clearly in the realm of
solid waste, yet municipal solid wastes and mining wastes contain free moisture that must be managed.
Conversely, wastewater treatment plants receive waste that flows through the sewerage system or directly from an
industrial process. This waste will predominantly be water contaminated by dissolved constituents, but this stream
will also contain solids. In fact, the basis of the treatment of domestic wastewater is to convert the dissolved
constituents to microorganisms (biosolids) that can then be concentrated, separated and reused or disposed of as a
solid waste. With this in mind, the topics in this course have been broadly categorised along technology lines rather
than the physical state of the waste stream.
Advantages:
For those interested in this field of study the course is highly relevant and will teach you a lot about the technology
involved with waste management (thermal, biological etc.). You also get two fieldtrips in the first half of semester
which allows you to see exactly how the theoretical concepts are applied.
Disadvantages:
It was difficult for the makers of this guide to find civil engineers who had done this course so there is a high
likelihood that the other people in the class will have a different background knowledge base to you (this can be good
or bad depending on your situation).
Tips:
There is some group work involved so mark sure you do this course with a buddy.
The exam is open book so make sure you take quality notes during semester.
48 | P a g e

Modelling of Environmental Systems [CIVL3150]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Professor Ling Li
Lecturer: Professor Ling Li, Professor William Clarke
Recommended Prerequisites: ENGG1500, (CIVL3130 or CHEE2003 or MINE2101)
Assumed Background: It is assumed that all students: have a sound knowledge of the basic principles of
mass, energy and momentum conservations; have basic computer skills and are familiar with standard
computing languages and software. Students should have completed the earlier undergraduate courses on
fluid mechanics, hydraulics, hydrology and environmental systems.
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Environmental Systems Project (50%)
Course Outline:
This subject aims to provide the students with concepts, theories and skills to address environmental
problems/issues based on systems thinking and modelling approaches, with a number of examples on
several important environmental systems.
Advantages:
Using flow diagrams and computer programs you can develop some really interesting mathematical models
that have real world applications. This course deals with real world problems and will give you the tools to
solve them.
Disadvantages:
Fair amount of programing as can be expected in any modelling course and it can be easier to fall behind,
and thus lose a large percentage of your final grade.
Tips:
The coding aspects are similar to other modelling/coding courses and can make CIVL3150 easier if
you have done these courses before.
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Advanced Open Channel & Hydraulic Structures [CIVL4120]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Prof. Hubert Chanson
Lecturers: Prof. Hubert Chanson, Dr Luke Toombes
Assumed Background: Students must have successfully completed the core course in fluid mechanics in Year 3
(CIVL3130 or equivalent). The course CIVL3140 is strongly recommended, possibly taken simultaneously.
Incompatible: Nil.
Contact Hours: 3L 1T (+1 Fieldtrip)
Course not
Assessment:
Project (35%)
taught in 2015
A minimum of 45% marks at the end of semester examination is required to pass the course.
Failure to contribute to the project shall result in an immediate failure of the course.
Course Outline:
Students are introduced to advanced open-channel hydraulics and applications including the design of spillways,
energy dissipaters& hydraulic models; sediment transport and reservoir management; and environmental impact on
the catchment. This course is an advanced hydraulic engineering elective for students interested in hydraulic
engineering and water resources.
Advantages:
Student feedback from previous years has found the field/project work to be a valuable part of the course with real
world applications, and vital lecturer communication and guidance. In previous years, the second part of the course
(last 3 weeks) was taught by an industry professional from Aurecon this was said to be a very good set of lectures.
Course is interesting, and students in the past have done better than expected.
There is a field trip that most students enjoy because it shows theory in practice, but it is a long day.
Disadvantages:
Lecture notes have had a tendency to contain errors (as well as textbook) and logic gaps which have not been made
obvious to students. Lecturer said to have used the worst OHT [Projector] imaginable. There is a general lack of
tutorial answers, particularly worked solutions (as opposed to single value solutions). As such, students in the past
have found the content to take a very long time to learn. The field trip itself was described as horrendously long.
Tips:
Similar difficulty and requirements to the other fluid courses.

The course is best taught by teaching yourself through the textbook. Recommended individual homework to
read the textbook prior to lectures.
In the past, many in the cohort have thought they were going to fail, but still ended up doing quite well.
50 | P a g e

Coastal & Estuarine Processes [CIVL4110]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Assoc. Prof. Peter Nielsen
Lecturer: Assoc. Prof. Peter Nielsen
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL3130 or CIVL2131
Assumed Background: MATH2000, CIVL3130 or CIVL2131
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Fieldwork/ Group Report (20%)
Tutorial Exercises (0%, Formative)
Presentation (20%)
Final Examination (60%, Short Answer)
Course Outline:
In this course you will extend your knowledge of fluid mechanics to understand the natural processes
occurring in estuarine and exposed coastal environments. This is an exciting course as learning activities will
include a major field study at Brunswick Heads where you will form a group and collect coastal and
estuarine data measurements over a 24.5 hour tidal cycle from the Brunswick River and the adjacent beach.
You and your group members will prepare a group report on your field data and present the collective
findings on a particular topic, e.g., observed tidal dynamics, in an oral group presentation to your class.
Advantages:
The course generally receives positive feedback due to its informative and relevant topics, major field study,
clear explanations and purpose-made textbook (from course profiles). Professor Nielsen is an enthusiastic
lecturer who wrote the recommended textbook for this course and thus it acts as a good reference point.
There is an overnight fieldtrip to Brunswick Heads where you work with a group to observe a full tidal
cycle. Tutes are formative but a great study tool for the final exam.
Disadvantages:
Sometimes questions can be a bit out there and its difficult to know where to start or what to do next. The
tutorials arent assessable, which isnt really a disadvantage but it means you dont do them religiously and
thus slack off. The report and presentation can be quite time consuming towards the end of semester and
many groups struggled if they had poor data. Make sure to get good data on the field trip and to start early
such you can ask questions of the lecture to obtain the relevant theoretical knowledge.
Tips:
Last time this course was run it was one of the most popular courses amongst students.
Similar difficulty and requirements to the other fluid courses, however, if you read the book and
understand whats going on thats all Prof. Nielsen is looking for.
You will be expected to transport yourself to and from the field site (for overnight field trip),
and provide for your own accommodation (such as a tent on the river, local caravan park or hotel)
and food requirements.
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Advanced Transport Engineering [CIVL4411]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Assoc. Prof. Adam Pekol
Lecturer: Assoc. Prof. Adam Pekol
Recommended Prerequisites: CIVL2410 + CIVL3420
Assumed Background: CIVL2410 + CIVL3420
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Tutorial Exercises (35%)
Participation/Attendance (5%)
Final Examination (60%, Short Answer, Short Essay, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
This course builds on the second and third year traffic/transport subjects and introduces students to more advanced
topics in transport engineering. The course includes modules covering travel demand forecasting, impact assessment,
freight transport, externalities and energy. Students will also learn about public transport, airport planning, seaport
operations and the geometric design of roads from a series of external lecturers.
Advantages:
The course is easy to do well in, because there are so many resources and Pekol is a great lecturer. You get to do a
field trip to The Port of Brisbane which is a whole lot of fun. The course also builds well on the other traffic courses;
you do not start at a basic level, but at the same time you are not designing an entire road network in week 1.
Disadvantages:
The assignments are done in groups and weighted poorly for the amount of time it takes to do them.
Tips:
If you put the time into this course there will be no surprises in the final exam.
Although the tutes are hard and take a long time, they count for a large portion of your final grade so you
need to do well in them.
52 | P a g e

Advanced Rock Mechanics [CIVL4280]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Prof. David Williams
Lecturers: Prof. David Williams, Dr Mehdi Serati, Prof. Marc Ruest, Assoc. Prof. Penny Stewart
Recommended Prerequisites: MINE3121
Assumed Background: Assumed background is the content of course MINE3121.
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Prac 1: Lab testing of Rocks (20%)
Prac 2: Rock Mechanics Analysis (20%)
Final Examination (60%, MCQ, Problem Solving)
Course Outline:
The course covers the following topics:
1. Investigation of rock masses
2. In situ and laboratory testing of rocks, their applications and limitations, and their interpretation
3. Rock mass classification systems
4. Rock parameter assessment
5. Rock support and excavation lining systems
6. Applications of rock mechanics
7. Analytical and numerical analyses of rock masses, including example applications to rock slopes,
underground excavations in rock, and rock support and excavation lining systems.
Advantages:
The lecture notes and the tutorials for the course are very comprehensive. The wide variety of lecturers
makes the lectures/tutorials refreshing and interesting. The lectures in particular relate to real-life examples
and how the principles are used in practice very well. The laboratory sessions are very similar to MINE3121
laboratory sessions, but with more advanced concepts and questions. The final exam is usually similar in
style to previous years, with some MCQ as well as short problem solving exercises.
Disadvantages:
The practicals require you to work in groups of 3-5, so make sure you are with a good group. They can also
be quite time consuming if you want to get high marks. In 2014, the lectures and tutorials were run in a 4
hour block on a Friday, so be aware that this may occur again.
Tips:
If you put effort into the practical assignments they can be a very easy way to boost your marks
going into the final.
The tutorial questions are very similar to what can be expected on the final exam.
53 | P a g e
Advanced Soil Mechanics [CIVL4230]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Robert Day
Lecturer: Dr Robert Day
Assumed Background: It is assumed that students have a good understanding of statics, mechanics and introductory
soil mechanics. In particular, the concepts of stress and strain, effective stress, consolidation, Mohr Columb failure
criteria, earth pressure, and retaining walls are very important.
Incompatible: Nil.
Assessment:
Assignment 1 - Retaining Walls 10%)
Problem Sheets (0%, Formative)
Assignment 2 -Mohrs Circle (10%)
Assignment 3 - Critical State Soil Mechanics (10%)
Course Outline:
This course merges theoretical and applied soil mechanics theory. It extends the students' depth of understanding in
essential soil mechanics theory and geotechnical analysis. Advanced topics include failure criteria and critical state
soil mechanics. Literature reviews and case studies of failures are examined to encourage self-education.
Advantages:
Dr Day is a really good lecturer who makes the course content interesting. The assignments are really good and you
get to do real world things like designing a retaining wall.
Disadvantages:
Content can be fairly intense at times as it is easy to fall behind in lectures. This is one of the harder geotech courses
taught.
Tips:
The final exam has no surprises and if you look at past exams you will get a good idea of exam content.

54 | P a g e

Advanced Structural Analysis [CIVL4332]

Difficulty Rating:
Course Coordinator: Dr Hamid Ronagh
Lecturers: Dr Hamid Ronagh, Assoc. Prof. Faris Albermani, Dr Joe Gattas.
Assessment:
Assignment 1 - Finite Element method (15%)
Assignment 2 - Dynamics of Structures (15%)
Course Outline:
This is an advanced course offering students an introduction to the finite element method and dynamic
analysis. Guest lecturers will also be invited to give presentations on different aspects of more challenging
projects.
Advantages:
The lectures can be very interesting if youre interested in particular aspects of a project. Being an advanced
course, the course covers topics previously not covered by other courses, so this could offer new areas of
interest or study to you, especially if youre interested in doing a project/thesis in structural engineering. Dr
Gattas lectures are always particularly interesting and insightful.
Disadvantages:
Being a new course in 2014, this course can be expected to change a bit for 2015, so be prepared. The
assignments can be quite challenging, so dont leave them to do at the last minute. Finite Element analysis
can be difficult if you havent worked with some structural software before, and youre not used to the
mathematical concepts.
Tips:
The assignments are equally weighted, and the final exam is balanced evenly across both topics, so
make sure you get a good grasp of both.
Keeping up to date with the workload throughout the semester will put you in a good position for
the final exam.
55 | P a g e
Your GPA/Honours (Students Pre 2015)

The following is an excerpt from the EAIT website regarding how honours are awarded:
From 2012, Bachelor of Engineering honours are based on the weighted GPA over all attempts at all courses
undertaken at UQ that count towards the BE. Grades are weighted by the year level of the course (first digit in
the course code); for example, fourth year courses are weighted 4 times as much as first year courses.
For students who commenced the BE or BE dual program before 2012, honours will be calculated on both the
GPA and weighted GPA. Honours will be awarded according to the best outcome
The policy set out below applies for all students:
Bachelor of Engineering Honours cut-offs:
Class of Honours
Honours I
Honours IIA
Honours IIB
GPA
6.000 - 7.000
5.500 - 5.999
5.000 - 5.499
Dual Degree Honours Calculation

Students enrolled in dual degrees with Engineering should note that only the courses that contribute to the BE
requirement of the dual degree count toward honours in the Bachelor of Engineering. The underlying principle
behind this is that the honours are awarded for performance in Engineering.
The number of units contributing to the BE for dual degree programs are Program
BE Requirement (units)
Total Requirement (units)
BE/BA
56
88
BE/BBusMan
52
88
BE/BCom
52
88
BE/BEcon
52
88
BE/BInfTech
56
88
BE/BSc
62
80
Students enrolled in a dual degree should lodge a course plan using the Dual Degree Course Plan form with the
Faculty Academic Office by the beginning of the first week of classes in the semester prior to graduation. This
will assist the Office to calculate accurately the grade point average for the courses contributing to the BE.
Calculating GPA
(unit value* grade) / (unit value)
i.e. if you do STAT2201 with a grade of 7, this course has a unit value of 1
and CIVL4512 with a grade of 5, this course has a unit value of 2
Therefore your GPA would be [(1*7) + (2*5)]/ (1+2) => GPA=5.67
Calculating Weighted GPA
Calculating your weighted GPA is the same as above but second year courses are weighted twice as
much as first year courses, third year courses weigh three times as much etc.
This method of GPA calculation is beneficial if you flunk first year and do well in the later years of
your degree.
i.e. if you do second year STAT2201 with a grade of 7, this course has a unit value of 1
and fourth year CIVL4514 with a grade of 5, this course has a unit value of 2
Therefore your GPA would be [(2*1*7) + (4*2*5)]/ (2*1+4*2) => GPA=5.4
56 | P a g e

GPA/Honours Bachelor of Engineering

(Honours) Program - 2015 Enrolments
Beginning in 2015, all new enrolments are no longer part of the traditional Bachelor of Engineering
degree and are now part of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) program. There are some key
advantages and disadvantages between the two programs as explained below.
The obvious key advantage is the inclusion of an honours degree for all graduating students. This is
beneficial from an employment perspective and reflects a Level 8 qualification in the Australian
Framework.
The main disadvantage that may encourage students to not opt-in to the new Bachelor of
Engineering (Honours) program is the change of the cut-offs for the class of honours.
Post 2015 Honours Cut-offs

GPA range
6.200 - 7.000
5.650 - 6.199
5.000 - 5.649
4.000 - 4.999
<4.000
Proposed class of Honours

Class I
Class IIA
Class IIB
Class IIIA
Class IIIB
Therefore, when considering changing between the two program systems, one must look at the class
of honours they would be eligible for under both systems and make a decision based on those
numbers.
It is important to note that the GPA used to calculate the class of honours in the new system is based
on the weighted GPA of your first attempt at each course that is a part of the engineering program.
For more information contact the EAIT Faculty or see the FAQ link below.
http://www.uq.edu.au/study/?page=212601
57 | P a g e
Subject List
The following list is a modified excerpt from the EAIT website.
Part A - Compulsory
Year 1, Semester 1
Course Code
Units
ENGG1100
2
Year 1, Semester 1 or 2
Course Title
Engineering Design
Course Code
ENGG1400
MATH1051
Year 1, Semester 2
Units
2
2
Course Title
Engineering Mechanics: Statics & Dynamics
Calculus & Linear Algebra I [1]
Course Code
ENGG1200
MATH1052
Year 2, Semester 1
Units
2
2
Course Title
Engineering Modelling & Problem Solving
Multivariate Calculus & Ordinary Differential Equations
Course Code
CIVL2130
CIVL2330
CIVL2410
MATH2000
STAT2201
Year 2, Semester 2
Units
1
2
2
2
1
Course Title
Environmental Issues, Monitoring & Assessment
Structural Mechanics
Traffic Flow Theory & Analysis
Calculus & Linear Algebra II
Analysis of Engineering & Scientific Data
Course Code
CIVL2131
CIVL2210
CIVL2340
CIVL2360
Year 3, Semester 1
Units
2
2
2
2
Course Title
Fluid Mechanics for Civil & Environmental Engineers
Fundamentals of Soil Mechanics
Introduction to Structural Design
Reinforced Concrete Structures & Concrete Technology
Course Code
CIVL3140
CIVL3210
CIVL3340
Year 3, Semester 2
Units
2
2
2
Course Title
Catchment Hydraulics: Open Channel Flow & Design
Geotechnical Engineering
Structural Analysis
Course Code
CIVL3141
CIVL3350
CIVL3420
CIVL3510
Year 4, Semester 1
Units
2
2
2
2
Course Title
Catchment Hydrology
Structural Design
Transportation Systems Engineering
Introduction to Project Management
Course Code
CIVL4514
Units
2
Course Title
Civil Design I
58 | P a g e

Year 4, Semester 2
Course Code
Units
Course Title
CIVL4515
2
Civil Design II [6] [7]
or
CIVL4516
2
Civil Design III
Part B0 - Preparatory Mathematics & Science Electives
Course Code
Units
CHEM1090
2
MATH1050
2
PHYS1171
2
Part B1 - Introductory Electives
Course Title
Introductory Chemistry [2]
Mathematical Foundations [1] [3]
Physical Basis of Biological Systems [4]
Course Code
Units
CHEM1100
2
CSSE1001
2
ENGG1300
2
ENGG1500
2
ENGG1600
2
ERTH1501
2
MINE2105
2
PHYS1002
2
REDE1300
2
Part B2 - Advanced Electives
Course Title
Chemistry 1
Introduction to Software Engineering
Introduction to Electrical Systems
Engineering Thermodynamics
Introduction to Research Practices - The Big Issues
Earth Processes & Geological Materials for Engineers
Introduction to Mining
Electromagnetism and Modern Physics
Building Construction Management & Economics
Course Code
CHEE4012
CIVL3150
CIVL4110
CIVL4120
CIVL4140
CIVL4160
CIVL4180
CIVL4230
CIVL4250
CIVL4270
CIVL4280
CIVL4320
CIVL4331
CIVL4332
CIVL4411
CIVL4522
CIVL4560
CIVL4580
CIVL4582
ENGG3700
ENGG4900
MINE4000
Course Title
Industrial Wastewater & Solid Waste Management
Modelling of Environmental Systems
Coastal & Estuarine Processes [8]
Advanced Open Channel Flow & Hydraulic Structures [9]
Ground Water & Surface Flow Modelling
Advanced Fluid Mechanics
Sustainable Built Environment
Advanced Soil Mechanics
Numerical Methods in Engineering
Geotechnical Investigation & Testing
Advanced Rock Mechanics
Engineering of Small Buildings
Advanced Structural Engineering
Advanced Structural Analysis
Advanced Transport Engineering
Construction Engineering Management
Project
Research Thesis [5]
Research Thesis [5]
Introduction to Fire Safety Engineering
Professional Practice and the Business Environment
Mine Waste Management & Landform Design
Units
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
4
4
2
2
2
59 | P a g e
Choosing Other Electives

When choosing an elective you will need to download and submit an approval form to the
EAIT office, failure to do this will result in the course not counting towards you degree.
The form can be found under electives on the EAIT homepage.
Having said this, there a number of courses that are pre-approved (do not need an application)
and also course that will not be allowed:
Automatically approved courses (no application required)

ACCT1101
ARCH1110
COMP1900 (pre-2011)
COSC2500
COSC3000
COSC3500
ECON1010
ECON1020
ENVM2522
ERTH1000
FINM2401
LAWS1100
MATH???
MGTS1301
OHSS1000
PHIL1020
PHIL2011
PHIL2040
PHYS????
REDE1300
TIMS3309
Accounting for Decision Making

Principles of Architecture
Information Access and Internet Skills (from 2010)
Numerical Methods in Computational Science
Visualisation, Computer Graphics & Data Analysis
High-performance Computing
Introductory Microeconomics
Introductory Macroeconomics
Environmental Markets & Emissions Trading
Planet Earth: The Big Picture
Financial Management
Business Law
Any level 2 or 3 MATH course
Introduction to Management
Introduction to Occupational Health & Safety
Introduction to Logic
Philosophy of Modern Physics
Philosophy of Mathematics
Any level 2 or 3 PHYS course
Building Construction Management & Economics
Fundamentals of Technology and Innovation Management
Denied courses (permission will never be given)

AGRC1009
AGRC1017
COMP1900
ECON1050
ECON1310
FINM1401
HMST1023
Non-English Courses
MATH1040
MGTS1201
MGTS2604
MGTS2961
Any MUSC
PSYC1020
PSYC1030
PSYC1040
SCIE1000
STAT1201
STAT2701
WRIT1001
60 | P a g e

Learning outcomes not consistent with engineering

Similar to MATH1040 which is BE Pre-requisite
Students cover this content during their degree
Incompatible with MATH1051
Content covered in STAT2201
Pre-requisite for civil engineering
Similar content to INFS1200/CSSE1000/CSSE1001
Engineering students do ENGG1100
Can only be taken in first semester of study
Other Resources

First year engineering student guide:

http://www.eait.uq.edu.au/filething/get/13163/Bachelor%20of%20Engineering%20Guide%202015.p
df
General guide released by EAIT for first year engineers

Library:
Ground Floor of Hawken and http://www.library.uq.edu.au/
Your one-stop shop for past exams, clickers, textbooks, Computers etc.
School of Civil Engineering:
Lcvel 5, Advanced Engineering Building
Computer Labs:
3rd floor of The Hawken Engineering Building
Hawken Building Library (Floors 1-4)
Redroom:
Under the Main Food Court
Report here daily for boat race training.
Civil Engineers preparing to beat Mechanical Engineers at Boat Races
61 | P a g e
Always Reference Your

Standards
and
Stay Civil.
The End.
62 | P a g e

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2015 Subject Guide

For Civil Engineering Students

About the guide

Your 2015 Exec

The Civil Engineering Cudas, UQIC Rugby Team

CESA 2014 Pubcrawl in Semester 1

New Subjects for 2015

CIVL4522 Construction Engineering Management (Semester 2)

CESA Graduation Dinner 2014

Environmental Issues, Monitoring & Assessment [CIVL2130]

Structural Mechanics [CIVL2330]

Traffic Flow Theory & Analysis [CIVL2410]

Calculus & Linear Algebra II [MATH2000]

Analysis of Engineering & Scientific Data [STAT2201]

Fluid Mechanics [CIVL2131]

The exam is open book.

Reinforced Concrete Structures & Technology [CIVL2360]

Introduction to Structural Design [CIVL2340]

Fundamentals of Soil Mechanics [CIVL2210]

Catchment Hydraulics: Open Channel Flow & Design [CIVL3140]

Geotechnical Engineering [CIVL3210]

Catchment Hydrology [CIVL3141]

Introduction to Project Management [CIVL3510]

Structural Design [CIVL3350]

Transportation Systems Engineering [CIVL3420]

Civil Design I, II/III

Research Thesis [CIVL4580 & CIVL4582]

Ground Water & Surface Flow Modelling [CIVL4140]

Introduction to Fire Safety [ENGG3700]

Advanced Fluid Mechanics [CIVL4160]

The final exam is similar difficulty to the tutes.

Numerical Methods in Engineering [CIVL4250]

Geotechnical Investigation & Testing [CIVL4270]

Advanced Structural Engineering [CIVL4331]

Engineering of Small Buildings [CIVL4320]

This course has been set to undergo a restructure for 2015.

Mine Waste Management & Landform Design [MINE4000]

Sustainable Built Environment [CIVL4180]

Industrial Wastewater & Solid Waste Management [CHEE4012]

Modelling of Environmental Systems [CIVL3150]

Advanced Open Channel & Hydraulic Structures [CIVL4120]

Similar difficulty and requirements to the other fluid courses.

Coastal & Estuarine Processes [CIVL4110]

Advanced Transport Engineering [CIVL4411]

Advanced Rock Mechanics [CIVL4280]

Advanced Soil Mechanics [CIVL4230]

Advanced Structural Analysis [CIVL4332]

Your GPA/Honours (Students Pre 2015)

Dual Degree Honours Calculation

GPA/Honours Bachelor of Engineering

Post 2015 Honours Cut-offs

Proposed class of Honours

Choosing Other Electives

Automatically approved courses (no application required)

Accounting for Decision Making