The academic content and curriculum of the Geotechnical Associate Degree Program aims to provide students with basic knowledge and practical skills in the fields of soil and foundation engineering. This program is specifically geared towards understanding the engineering properties of soils, soil-soil interactions and soil mechanics. The curriculum generally includes theoretical lectures, laboratory work and field applications.
Soil Mechanics: This course covers the physical and mechanical properties of soil. Students learn basic topics such as soil structure, classification, permeability and compressibility.
Soil Dynamics and Seismology: This course, which aims to understand the behavior of soil under seismic waves, is critical for structural design, especially in earthquake zones.
Foundation Engineering: This course covers the principles of foundation design necessary for the safe and efficient placement of structures in the ground. It examines various types of foundations such as pile foundations, strip foundations and slab foundations.
Soil Testing Methods: Laboratory and field tests are essential to determine the engineering properties of soils. In this course, students learn how to take and test soil samples.
Soil Improvement Techniques: Weak soils need to be improved for engineering applications. This course examines soil stabilization and improvement methods.
Hydrogeology and Geotechnical Investigations: Understanding water and soil interactions is especially important for the design of water structures and foundations. This course focuses on the movement and control of groundwater.
Environmental Geotechnics: This course deals with the effects of environmental issues on soil and foundation engineering. Particular emphasis is placed on the design of landfills and soil contamination.
Project Management and Construction Law: Students learn the fundamentals of project management and the legal frameworks applicable to construction projects.
The curriculum of the program also offers internship and practicum opportunities, allowing students to reinforce their theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Students develop their professional skills by gaining work experience in the field and working on real-world engineering problems. This balanced approach ensures that graduates are ready to enter the world of work and have a head start in their careers.