Geotechnical Engineering

Scope and Objectives

Graduate study in geotechnical engineering at Oregon State University emphasizes the integration of scientific principles and the art of engineering in applications of soil mechanics, foundation engineering, geological engineering, and highway materials engineering. Theory is prominent, but it is constantly and critically re-evaluated with respect to its limitations and applicability to the practice of good geotechnical engineering. The M.S. program prepares students for careers in consulting, design, development, or construction and provides the background for students more interested in research, teaching, or specialization to pursue the Ph.D. degree.

Program of Study

The courses offered in the geotechnical engineering graduate curriculum are listed below. A thesis or a project report is a requirement of the M.S. program.

CE 514 Groundwater Hydraulics
CE 518 Groundwater Modeling
CE 528 Soil Improvement
CE 571 Foundations for Structures
CE 572 Soil Testing for Engineers
CE 573 Earth Structures
CE 574 Engineering Properties of Soils
CE 575 Earth Retention and Support
CE 576 Designing with Geotextiles
CE 579 Deep Foundations
CE 578 Geotechnical Earthquake
CE 570 Geotechnical Engineering Engineering Practice

Facilities

Geotechnical Engineering Field Site

Supporting Programs

Environmental & Water Resources Engineering
Hazardous & Toxic Waste Management
Hydrology
Seepage & Groundwater Hydraulics
Groundwater Remediation
Geosciences
Engineering Geology
Geophysics
Geomorphology
Hydrogeology
Structure-Tectonics
GIS
Structural Engineering & Mechanics
Engineering Mechanics
Structural Dynamics
Structural Analysis and Designs
Finite Element Analysis
Mathematics & Statistics
Engineering Mathematics
Statistical Inference
Oceanography & Ocean Engineering
Geological Oceanography
Marine Geotechnique
Transportation Engineering
Pavement Design
Pavement Rehabilitation
Highway Materials
Soil Improvement

Research Areas

• Micro-scale level - Computer simulation of very small elements
• Small-scale level - Lab experiments simulate soil behavior
• Large-scale level - Field research at Geotech Field Site

Graduate Admissions

Visit the departmental graduate admissions page for more information.

Financial Support

Research and teaching assistantships are available for qualified graduate students. Financial support, as well as on-the-job experience, is also available through cooperative programs with various industries and governmental agencies.