Fields of expertise

One of the main tasks for an engineering geologist is to conduct the ground investigation. This requires gathering information for the subsurface of relevance to the proposed engineering works. This is likely to require both traditional methods such as mapping and drilling, and new technologies such as geophysics, CAD, GIS and geostatistics. Other tasks include assessing the impact of geology on the stability of foundations, dams, slopes, or undergound structures, the prediction of land subsidence due to mining, karst or fluid extraction, the quantitative description of groundwater flow and contamination, and, last but certainly not least, the broad field of environmental geotechnics.

The special skills offered by TUDelft

The Engineering Geology Masters programme embraces all the relevant disciplines pertinent to the needs of an engieering geologist wishing to be trained for employment in industry. Special attention is given to the ground conditions likely to be encountered in lowland countries and their adjoining areas. Such topics include the durability of coastal defenses and the impacts of the dredging and offshore industries. Electives allow further specialisation in a wide range of construction applications.

The students are taught by a dedicated team of specialists, all of whom have experience of industrial applications as well as actively pursuing research and publication opportunities. A substantial proportion of the course is taught in the field. Exposure to the complexity of the subsurface and its dynamic processes is progressively developed through study of idealised cases, case histories and an intensive fieldwork programme in the Western Netherlands, Belgium and Spain. Field visits and guest lectures by industrial practitioners are central to the development of the students' understanding of the subject as well as helping forge stronger links with potential employers. The course philosophy is reinforced by a strong alumnus organisation.

Further information

For more information on the MSc Engineering Geology as a specialisation within Geo-Engineering, please contact:

Possible topics for the MSc Thesis

MSc students are encouraged to take part in the on-going research activities of the Geo-Engineering Section during their thesis work, and with the external organisations with which the Section is collaborating. The MSc thesis focusses on a practical problem of relevance to engineering geology practice. This usually involves a study of existing information and consideration of the issues involved. Then follows a practical phase integrating relevant theory with data derived from field observations, field tests or laboratory work. Take a look at research topics in Engineering Geology to get an idea of the range of topics currently being pursued within the Engineering Geology Group.