Engineering Geology and Geotechnics

Engineering geology and geotechnics is the application of geological knowledge to engineering and construction, addressing the questions that arise whenever human beings build structures on, in, or with the Earth. How stable is this slope? What ground conditions will be encountered when tunnelling here?

What are the geological risks for this dam, road, or building? Answering these questions requires both a deep understanding of how geological materials behave and the engineering judgement to translate that understanding into safe and cost-effective design.

At the University of Exeter this three-year, full-time programme develops your understanding of geological processes and materials alongside the geotechnical engineering principles needed to work safely and effectively in the construction and infrastructure industries. You will study rock mechanics, soil mechanics, hydrogeology, site investigation, slope stability, foundation design, and the geological hazards that engineers must understand and manage. The programme is accredited by the Geological Society, which is the first step on the path to Chartered Geologist status after graduation, providing professional recognition for the quality and coverage of the training.

Graduates of engineering geology and geotechnics work in geotechnical consultancies, civil engineering firms, mining and quarrying companies, environmental agencies, and government bodies responsible for infrastructure, planning, and natural hazard management. Many work on major construction projects including tunnels, bridges, dams, offshore platforms, and coastal defences, providing the geological expertise without which safe engineering design is impossible. Others move into natural hazard assessment, groundwater management, contaminated land, or the growing field of climate change adaptation.

Chartered Geologist status and the path towards Chartered Engineer registration open clear professional development routes. Further study at Masters level in engineering geology, geotechnics, or environmental geoscience is available for those who want to specialise further.