Professional Master’s Degree

Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering

Professional Master’s Degree
Geotechnical and
Foundation Engineering
» Modality: online
» Duration: 12 months
» Certificate: TECH Global University
» Credits: 60 ECTS
» Schedule: at your own pace
» Exams: online
Website: www.techtitute.com/us/engineering/professional-master-degree/master-geotechnics-foundations
Index

01 02
Introduction Objectives
p. 4 p. 8

03 04 05
Skills Course Management Structure and Content
p. 16 p. 20 p. 24

06 07
Methodology Certificate
p. 34 p. 42
01
Introduction
This comprehensive program is designed to provide the student with in-depth
knowledge of the contents and techniques of geotechnical engineering and their
application to the various foundations and structures that can be found in different
types of civil engineering projects. Focused directly on practical application, this
program will address all the current issues in this area of intervention, providing the
professional with a complete and efficient education.
 Introduction | 05

A thorough and intensive study of the differential

characteristics of soils and rocks, in relation to
soil behavior, bearing capacity or strength"
 06 | Introduction

The program is academically designed to provide in-depth knowledge, starting from This Professional Master's Degree in Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering
advanced concepts already acquired in the world of Civil Engineering and from a practical contains the most complete and up-to-date program on the market. Its most notable
application point of view, to the most important geotechnical aspects that can be found in features are:
different types of civil works.
Š Practical cases presented by experts in Civil Engineering and Geotechnics
The content ranges from the specific behavior of soils and rocks, with a constant
Š The graphic, schematic, and practical contents with which they are created, provide
differentiation of both types of terrain throughout all the topics, to their direct application
scientific and practical information on the disciplines that are essential for professional
in foundations and structures.
practice
The program, divided into 10 modules, has a syllabus that mixes some of these modules
Š Practical exercises where the self-assessment process can be carried out to improve
that have more applied theory (such as those related to soil behavior models, the
learning
necessary requirements for a good identification of soils and rocks or the interaction
of the soil with seismic disturbances), with others that have an emphasis on practical Š Special emphasis on innovative methodologies
analysis. The knowledge acquired on the behavior of the soil and its stress-strain states in Š Theoretical lessons, questions to the expert, debate forums on controversial topics, and
this first part is applied to the usual structures of Geotechnical Engineering: slopes, walls, individual reflection assignments
screens, tunnels, etc.
Š Content that is accessible from any fixed or portable device with an Internet connection
Geotechnical engineering and its application in foundations and structures is present in
many civil engineering projects and works. This path, which goes from compaction and
seismic considerations in linear works to the execution of tunnels and galleries, is the one
that is carried out with the case studies addressed in each of the topics. It is a priority
to ensure that these case studies are current and relevant. This allows for an original
and application-oriented analysis of the theoretical concepts developed throughout the
course.

Therefore, the Professional Master's Degree in Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering An intensive study of the contents
integrates the most complete and innovative educational program in the current market
in terms of knowledge and the latest available technologies, in addition to encompassing and techniques of Geotechnical
all sectors or parties involved in this field. In addition, the program consists of exercises Engineering and their application
based on real cases of situations currently managed or previously faced by the teaching
team. to foundations and structures"
All this, through a 100% online program that allows the student to take the course
wherever and whenever they want. All they will need is a device with internet access,
and they will be able to access a universe of knowledge that will be the main basis for
engineers to position themselves in a sector that is increasingly demanded by companies
in various industries.
 Introduction | 07

Acquire the working skills required A 100% online refresher program that
to develop the initial site survey will allow you to balance your studies
and valuations that are essential with the rest of your daily activities
for the creation of adequate and
safe structures"
Make the most of the opportunity and
take the step to get up to date on the
latest developments in Geotechnical
and Foundation Engineering
The program’s teaching staff includes professionals from the sector who contribute
their work experience to this program, as well as renowned specialists from leading
societies and prestigious universities.

The multimedia content, developed with the latest educational technology, will provide
the professional with situated and contextual learning, i.e., a simulated environment that
will provide an immersive education, programmed to learn in real situations.

This program is designed around Problem-Based Learning, whereby the professional

must try to solve the different professional practice situations that arise during the
academic year. For this purpose, the professional will be assisted by an innovative
interactive video system created by renowned and experienced engineering experts.
02
Objectives
Through this program, engineering professionals will acquire the necessary
knowledge to analyze the characteristics of soils and rocks, assessing with
solvency the suitability of each approach in civil works. With the security and
efficiency of a program created to boost professionals in the management and
approach of civil works in relation to the land as an imperative technical base,
this learning will make you unstoppable on your way to mastering these issues.
 Objectives | 09

Learn to recognize the different types of soils

and to adapt the construction works to the
behavior that these differences determine,
according to the latest technological and
scientific developments in the sector”
 10 | Objectives

General Objectives

Š Delve deeper into kinds of soil, not only in their typology but also in their behavior. Not only
in the evident differentiation of stresses and deformations of soils and rocks, but also
under particular but very common conditions, such as the presence of water or seismic
disturbances
Š Efficiently recognize the needs for soil characterization, being able to design campaigns
with the optimal means for each type of structure, optimizing and giving added value to
the study of materials
Š Identify the behavior of slopes and semi-subterranean structures such as foundations
or walls in their different typologies. This complete identification must be based on
understanding and being able to anticipate the behavior of the terrain, the structure and
its interface
Š Know, in detail, the possible faults that each set can produce and, as a consequence,
have an in-depth understanding of the repair operations or improvement of materials to
mitigate damage
Š Carry out a complete review of tunnel and gallery excavation methodologies, analyzing all
drilling procedures, design constraints, support and lining
 Objectives | 11

Specific Objectives

Module 1. Soil and Rock Behavior Š Acquire the necessary knowledge regarding drilling fluids, both for field testing and for
Š Establish the main differences between dynamic and static characterization and behavior other types of drilling: Characteristics, applications, performance, etc.
of soils and rocks Š Deepen understanding of the practical utility of permeability tests, identifying their fields
Š Present the most important geotechnical parameters in both cases and their most of application and their convenience
commonly used constitutive relationships Š Make special emphasis on the correct planning of a geotechnical survey campaign,
Š Gain detailed knowledge of the different behaviors of terrain and the most commonly establishing the timing and performance of each phase
used elastic and plastic models for all types of terrain Š Extend in a practical way the knowledge of laboratory tests, not in terms of definition,
Š Make a presentation of the most common stress cases in practice and soil behavior which is a known fact, but in terms of being able to foresee the results to be obtained and
at different degrees of saturation, swelling and compaction in soils. The fundamental to identify inappropriate results and malpractice in their execution
principles of these constraints and their application throughout the development of terrain Š Establish the usefulness of geophysical survey systems
dynamics and statics are the application parts and objectives for this module Š As far as auscultation is concerned, the main objective of the subject is the recognition
Š From the practical point of view, the objectives will be marked by the need to discern all of the elements to be auscultated and their actual application on site. In addition, new
the parameters, stresses, types of stresses and soil and rock concepts. In the same way, technologies for continuous auscultation are analyzed
we must know which of the constitutive models of the terrain should be used for each of
the cases, depending on the characteristics of each of the actions to be approached Module 3. Behavior of Water in Terrain
Š Identify of the presence of water in the behavior of soils and acquire correct knowledge of
Module 2. Terrain Reconnaissance: Characterization and Auscultation the different storage functions and characteristic curves
Š Define the characteristics to be contained in a specific geotechnical study applied to each Š Discuss the terms of effective and total pressures and determine the exact influence of
particular soil and application requirements effective and total pressures on the loadings of the land
Š Establish the concepts included in the most important international standards for Š Identify the most common errors regarding the use of these terms of effective and total
sampling and field testing, making a comparison of each one of them pressures, and show practical applications of these concepts that are of great importance
Š Acquire in-depth knowledge of the data obtained in field surveys and their interpretation Š Apply knowledge of the behavior of semi-saturated soils in data collection and sample
Š Recognize the need to complement field tests with other complementary tests, such as analysis, with regard to laboratory tests: drained and undrained tests
dynamic and static penetration tests
 12 | Objectives

Š Determine the uses of soil compaction as a measure to reduce soil saturation. Correctly Š Delve into the different practical methodologies for the analysis of ground behavior under
handle the compaction curve by analyzing the most common errors and their applications seismic conditions, both semi-empirical simulations as well as complex finite element
Š Analyze the most common saturation processes such as swelling, suction and modeling
liquefaction in soils, describing the characteristics of the processes and their Š Quantify the impact of seismic disturbances on foundations, both in terms of their
consequences in soils definition in the design and final sizing
Š Apply all these concepts to the modeling of stresses and their variation according to the Š Apply all of these conditions to both shallow and deep foundations
degree of saturation of the soil Š Perform a sensitivity analysis of the above-mentioned behaviors in containment
Š Know in detail the applications of saturation in surface works and saturation removal structures and in the most common elements of subway excavations
processes in superficial linear works Š Apply the study of seismic wave disturbances in other elements that can propagate along
Š Correctly define zonal hydrogeology in a project, determining the concepts that should the ground, such as the study of noise and vibration transmission in the ground
encompass its study and the long-term consequences it may have on structural elements
Š Explain in depth the definition of preconsolidation processes as a way to provide soils Module 5. Land Treatment and Improvement
Š Acquire comprehensive knowledge of the different types of existing land treatments
with improved mechanical properties by reducing soil saturation
Š Analyze the range of existing typologies and their correspondence with the improvement
Š Carry out flow modeling, the permeability concept and its actual application in interim and
of the different properties
final construction states
Š Know precisely the variables that are found in the processes of land improvement by
Module 4. Seismicity Continuous Medium Mechanics and Constitutive injection: consumption, requirements, advantages and disadvantages
Models. Application to Soils and Rocks
Š Present, in an extensive way, gravel column treatments as relatively-little-used elements
Š Identify the effects induced in the ground by seismic action, as part of the non-linear
of land treatment, but with remarkable technical applications
behavior of the ground
Š Gain in-depth knowledge of soil treatments by chemical treatment and freezing, as little-
Š Deepen understanding of the particularities of the terrain, discretizing between soils and
known treatments, but with very good spot applications
rocks, and understand the instantaneous behavior under seismic loads
Š Define the applications of preloading (preconsolidation), which was covered in a previous
Š Analyze the most important regulations in the seismic field, especially in areas of the
module, as an element of soil treatment to accelerate the evolution of soil behavior
planet where earthquakes are frequent and of significant magnitude
Š Analyze the changes that the seismic action produces in the identifying parameters of the
terrain and observe how they evolve depending on the type of seismic action
 Objectives | 13

Š Complete the knowledge of one of the most used ground treatments in subway works, Module 7. Superficial Foundations
such as micropile umbrellas, defining applications different from the usual ones and the Š Gain in-depth knowledge of the conditioning factors that influence the design and
characteristics of the process behavior of shallow foundations
Š Deal in depth with soil decontamination as a land improvement process, defining the Š Analyze the trends in the different international design standards, contemplating their
typologies that can be used differences in terms of criteria, and the different safety coefficients used
Š Recognize the different actions present in shallow foundations, both those that require
Module 6. Slope Analysis and Stability
and those that contribute to the stability of the element
Š Determine, for soils and rocks, the stability conditions and behavior of slopes, whether it
is stable or unstable, and the stability margin Š Establish a sensitivity analysis of the behavior of the foundations in the evolution of this
type of loads
Š Define the loads to which each part of the slope is subjected and the operations that can
be carried out on them Š Identify the different types of improvement of foundations already in use, classifying them
according to the type of foundation, the soil on which it is located and the age at which it
Š Investigate the potential mechanisms of slope failure and the analysis of practical cases
was built
of this type of failure
Š Break down, in a comparative way, the costs of the use of this type of foundations and
Š Determine the sensitivity or susceptibility of slopes to different mechanisms or triggering
their influence on the rest of the structure
factors, including external effects such as the presence of water, the effect of rainfall,
earthquakes, etc Š Identify the most common types of surface foundation failures and their most effective
corrective measures
Š Compare the effectiveness of different remediation or stabilization options and their
effect on slope stability
Š Learn more about the different options for improving and protecting slopes, from the
point of view of structural stability and the conditions to which they may be subjected
during their service life
Š Design optimal slopes in terms of safety, reliability and economy
Š Review the application of slopes in hydraulic works as a major part of the design and use
of major slopes
Š Detail the calculation methodologies associated with finite elements currently in use for
the design of this type of elements
 14 | Objectives

Module 8. Deep Foundations Module 10. Tunnel and Mining Engineering

Š Acquire detailed knowledge of piles as deep foundation elements, analyzing all their Š Establish the different most common methodologies for tunnel excavation, both those
characteristics, construction typologies, auscultation capacity, types of failure, etc excavated by conventional methods and those excavated by mechanical means
Š Review other deep foundations of more specific use, for special structures, pointing out Š Be clear about the classification of these methodologies according to the type of terrain,
those types of projects in which they are used and in very particular practical cases excavation diameters and end use of tunnels and galleries
Š Analyze the major enemies of this type of foundations, such as negative friction or loss of Š Apply the very different soil and rock behaviors defined in other modules of this master's
tip resistance, among others degree to tunnel and gallery excavation
Š Have a high degree of knowledge of deep foundation repair methodologies and Š Recognize the design constraints of the supports and revetments, and understand more
auscultation, both initial execution and repairs deeply their relationship with rock mechanical classifications and soil typologies
Š Measure, in a correct way and according to the particular characteristics of the work, the Š Adapt all these conditions to other types of deep excavation such as shafts, subway
appropriate deep foundations connections, interactions with other structures, etc
Š Complete the study of deep foundations with the upper bracing elements and their Š Analyze the mining excavation with the particularities it has due to the depth of its actions
grouping, with a clear development of the structural dimensioning of the pile caps
Š Gain detailed knowledge of the interaction of deep excavations on the surface Performing
an approach to seat calculation in different phases
Module 9. Retaining Structures: Walls and Screens
Š Define and acquire complete knowledge of the loads that the soil produces on the Š Establish a concrete relationship between seismic disturbances and the stress-strain
retaining structures behavior of tunnels and galleries, as well as identify how this type of disturbance modifies
the supports and linings
Š Extend this knowledge with the analysis of the interaction of surface loads, lateral loads
and seismic loads that may occur in the soil adjacent to this type of structure
Š Go through the different types of retaining structures, from the most common continuous
screens and piles to other elements of more specific use such as sheet piling or Soldier-
piles
Š Deal with the deformational behavior of the backside of these elements, both in the short
and long term, with special interest in the calculation of surface seating in deep screens
Š Learn more about the sizing and behavior of bracing structures, struts and anchors
Š Analyze with current finite element calculation methods the most common safety
coefficients in this type of structures as well as their correlation by applying statistical
reliability concepts
 Objectives | 15

A unique specialization program that

will enable you to acquire superior
knowledge for development in this
field"
03
Skills
This Professional Master's Degree will enable the professional to detect and solve problems
within broad contexts related to Geotechnical Engineering. All this, taking into account
aspects such as the market, the structure of the current system and the development of
business projects, incorporating the assurance of in-depth knowledge of the problems that
the field can cause and the proper use and management of its possibilities. This is done
with the certainty of being up to date with the most innovative proposals in this field.
 Skills | 17

You will develop competence in the global

management of the practical conditions
affecting civil engineering projects, with
knowledge of the current international
context"
 18 | Skills

General Skills

Š Master the global environment of Geotechnical Engineering and foundations, from the
international context and markets, to project development, operation and maintenance
plans and sectors such as insurance and asset management
Š Know how to apply acquired knowledge and problem-solving skills in current or unfamiliar
environments within broader contexts related to Geotechnics
Š Be able to integrate knowledge and get a deep vision of the different uses of Geotechnics,
as well as the importance of its use in today’s world
Š Know how to communicate design, development and management concepts of the
different systems of civil engineering
Š Understand and internalize the scope of digital and industrial transformation applied to
foundation systems for efficiency and competitiveness in today’s market
Š Be able to perform critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new and complex ideas
related to the field of Civil Engineering
Š Be able to promote, in professional contexts, technological, social or cultural progress
within a knowledge-based society
 Skills | 19

Specific Skills

Š Perform a safe approach to a construction site that has geotechnical components

Š Master the concepts necessary to identify the actions to be taken, the tasks to be
coordinated or the corrective decisions to be made, after a very exhaustive review of the
casuistry that can be generated by Geotechnical Engineering
Š Know in depth the practical and concrete data, so that the subject matter and the way of
dealing with each of the topics creates a reference base
Š The program is academically designed to provide in-depth knowledge, starting from
advanced concepts already acquired in the world of Civil Engineering, and from a practical
application point of view, of the most important geotechnical aspects that can be found in
different types of civil engineering projects
Š Understand the specific behavior of soils and rocks
Š Know how to differentiate the types of terrain

Improving your geotechnical skills will

give you a boost to your professional
career, with greater intervention skills
and better results"
04
Course Management
TECH follows strict criteria for all its educational programs. This guarantees students
that, by studying here, they will find the best educational content taught by the
best professionals in the sector. In this sense, this Professional Master’s Degree
in Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering is delivered by highly prestigious
professionals in this field, who contribute their years of experience to this program, as
well as the knowledge they’ve acquired from research in the field. All this to provide
the engineer with a high-level program, which will enable them to practice with greater
guarantees of success.
 Course Management | 21

Learn with the best and acquire the

knowledge and skills you need to
intervene in this area of development
with total success"
 22 | Course Management

Management

Dr. Estébanez Aldona, Alfonso

Š Civil Engineer, graduated from the Polytechnic University of Madrid
Š PhD student at ETSI Caminos, Canales y Puertos UPM in the Department of Terrain Engineering
Š Course on Health and Safety Coordinator in Construction Works registered by the CAM nº 3508
Š Engineering and Technical Director at ALFESTAL
Š International Consultant and Project Manager at D2
Š Project Manager in the Department of Tunnels and Underground Works in Inarsa S.A
Š Assistant Technician in the Geology and Geotechnical Department of Intecsa-Inarsa
 Course Management | 23

Professors
Dr. Sandin Sainz-Ezquerra, Juan Carlos Dr. Clemente Sacristan, Carlos
Š Specialist in the calculation of structures and foundations, fields in which he has Š Civil Engineer graduated from the Polytechnic University of Madrid
developed his entire professional career over the last 25 years Š Development of large-scale linear works for different administrations (ADIF, Ministry of
Š Civil Engineer at the ETSI of Roads, Canals and Ports at the Polytechnic University of Public Works, Provincial Council of Vitoria) being a reference project manager in the field
Madrid (UPM) of linear works
Š PhD student at ETSI Roads, Canals and Ports at UPM in the Department of Structures. Š Executive at BALGORZA S.A
Š Course on Integration of BIM Technology in Structural Design 2017 Š Occupational risk prevention course for construction company managers
Š Lecturer in the BIM Master’s Degree developed at the Colegio de Caminos 2019 Š Advanced course in management of large turnkey projects (EPC)
Š Technical assistance for SOFISTIK AG for Spain and Latin America, finite element
modeling software for terrain and structures

Ms. Lope Martín, Raquel

Š Geological Engineer, Complutense University of Madrid UCM
Š PROINTEC Technical Department.
Š She has been involved in various projects requiring improvement treatments, both
nationally and internationally: jet grouting, gravel columns, vertical drains, etc
Š Course on Geotechnics Applied to Building Foundations
Š Course on Technical Control for Property and Casualty Insurance Geotechnics,
foundations and structures
05
Structure and Content
The syllabus has been built based on the intensive and high-impact teaching
requirements of this Professional Master's Degree. Through a complete course,
which incorporates all the fields of work in which geotechnical analysis intervenes,
the student will develop their theoretical and practical knowledge, achieving a
professional and personal growth that will allow them to intervene in this field of
work with the confidence of an expert
 Structure and Content | 25

A high-impact syllabus, focused on the complete

acquisition of knowledge, incorporating both
theoretical knowledge and practical skills"
 26 | Structure and Content

Module 1. Soil and Rock Behavior 1.7. Characterization of the Rock Massif
1.7.1. Characterization of the Properties of Massifs
1.1. Fundamental Principles and Magnitudes
1.7.2. Deformity Properties of Massifs
1.1.1. Ground as a Three-Phase System
1.7.3. Post-Breakage Characterization of the Massif
1.1.2. Types of Stress States
1.8. Rock Dynamics
1.1.3. Constitutive Quantities and Relationships
1.8.1. Crust Dynamics
1.2. Semi-Saturated Soils
1.8.2. Rock Elasticity-Plasticity
1.2.1. Soil Compaction
1.8.3. Rock Elasticity Constants
1.2.2. Water in Porous Environment
1.9. Discontinuities and Instabilities
1.2.3. Stress in Soil
1.9.1. Geomechanics of Discontinuities
1.2.4. Behavior of Water in Soil and Rocks
1.9.2. Water in Discontinuities
1.3. Behavior Models in Soils
1.9.3. Discontinuity Families
1.3.1. Constitutive Models
1.10. Limit States and Loss of Equilibrium
1.3.2. Non-Linear Elastic Models
1.10.1. Natural Stress in Terrain
1.3.3. Elastoplastic Models
1.10.2. Types of Breakages
1.3.4. Basic Formulation of Critical State Models
1.10.3. Flat Break and Wedge Break
1.4. Soil Dynamics
1.4.1. Behavior after Vibrations Module 2. Terrain Reconnaissance: Characterization and Auscultation
1.4.2. Soil-Structure Interaction
2.1. Geotechnical Study
1.4.3. Soil Effect on Structures
2.1.1. Terrain Recognition
1.4.4. Behavior in Soil Dynamics
2.1.2. Content of the Geotechnical Study
1.5. Expansive Soils
2.1.3. On-site Testing and Trials
1.5.1. Saturation Processes Swelling and Collapse
2.2. Standards for the Execution of Tests
1.5.2. Collapsible Soils
2.2.1. Comparison of International Standards
1.5.3. Soil Behavior under Swelling
2.2.2. Results and Interactions
1.6. Rock Mechanics
2.3. Field Probes and Reconnaissance
1.6.1. Mechanical Properties of Rocks
2.3.1. Probes
1.6.2. Mechanical Properties of Discontinuities
2.3.2. Static and Dynamic Penetration Tests
1.6.3. Applications of Rock Mechanics
2.3.3. Permeability Tests
 Structure and Content | 27

2.4. Identification Tests Module 3. Behavior of Water in Terrain

2.4.1. Status Tests
3.1. Partially Saturated Soils
2.4.2. Resistance Tests
3.1.1. Storage Function and Characteristic Curve
2.4.3. Expansivity and Aggressivity Tests
3.1.2. Condition and Properties of Semi-Saturated Soils
2.5. Considerations Prior to Proposing Geotechnical Surveys
3.1.3. Characterization of Partially Saturated Soils in Modeling
2.5.1. Perforation Program
3.2. Effective and Total Pressure
2.5.2. Geotechnical Performance and Scheduling
3.2.1. Total, Neutral and Effective Pressure
2.5.3. Geological Factors
3.2.2. Darcy’s Law in Terrain
2.6. Perforation Fluids
3.2.3. Permeability
2.6.1. Variety of Perforation Fluids
3.3. Drainage Incidence in Tests
2.6.2. Fluid Characteristics: Viscosity
3.3.1. Drained and Undrained Shear Tests
2.6.3. Additives and Applications
3.3.2. Drained and Undrained Consolidation Tests
2.7. Geological-Geotechnical Testing, Geomechanical Stations
3.3.3. Post-Rupture Drainage
2.7.1. Test Typology
3.4. Soil Compaction
2.7.2. Determination of Geomechanical Stations
3.4.1. Principle Fundamentals in Compaction
2.7.3. Characterization at Great Depth
3.4.2. Compaction Methods
2.8. Pumping Wells and Pumping Tests
3.4.3. Tests, Trials and Results
2.8.1. Typology and Means Required
3.5. Saturation Processes
2.8.2. Test Planning
3.5.1. Swelling
2.8.3. Interpretation of the Results
3.5.2. Suction
2.9. Geophysical Investigation
3.5.3. Liquefaction
2.9.1. Seismic Methods
3.6. Stresses in Saturated Soils
2.9.2. Electric Methods
3.6.1. Tension Spaces in Saturated Soils
2.9.3. Interpretation and Results
3.6.2. Evolution and Transformation in Stresses
2.10. Auscultation
3.6.3. Associated Displacements
2.10.1. Superficial and Firm Auscultation
3.7. Application to Roads and Plains
2.10.2. Auscultation of Movements, Stresses and Dynamics
3.7.1. Compaction Values
2.10.3. Application of New Technologies in Auscultation
3.7.2. Bearing Capacity of the Soil
3.7.3. Specific Tests
3.8. Hydrogeology in Structures
3.8.1. Hydrogeology in Different Soil Types
3.8.2. Hydrogeology Model
3.8.3. Problems that Groundwater Can Cause
 28 | Structure and Content

3.9. Compressibility and Preconsolidation 4.6. Seismicity in Excavations

3.9.1. Compressibility in Soils 4.6.1. Influence of Earthquakes on Earth Pressure
3.9.2. Preconsolidation Pressure Terms 4.6.2. Typologies of Equilibrium Losses in Earthquakes
3.9.3. Water Table Oscillations in Preconsolidation 4.6.3. Measures for Control and Improvement of Excavation in Earthquakes
3.10. Fluid Analysis 4.7. Site Studies and Seismic Hazard Calculations
3.10.1. One-Dimensional Flow 4.7.1. General Criteria of Design
3.10.2. Critical Hydraulic Gradient 4.7.2. Seismic Danger in Structures
3.10.3. Flow Modelling 4.7.3. Special Seismic Construction Systems for Foundations and Structures
4.8. Liquefaction in Saturated Granular Soils
Module 4. Seismicity Mechanics of the Continuous Medium and
4.8.1. Liquefaction Phenomenon
Constitutive Models Application to Soil and Rocks 4.8.2. Reliability of Calculations Against Liquefaction
4.1. Seismic Response of Soils 4.8.3. Evolution of Parameters in Liquefactive Soils
4.1.1. Seismic Effect in Soils 4.9. Seismic Resilience in Soils and Rocks
4.1.2. Non-Lineal Behavior in Soils 4.9.1. Fragility Curves
4.1.3. Induced Effects Due to Seismic Action 4.9.2. Seismic Risk Calculations
4.2. Seismic Study in Regulations 4.9.3. Estimation of Soil Resistance
4.2.1. Interaction Between International Standards 4.10. Transmission of Other Types of Waves in Terrain Sound Through Terrain
4.2.2. Comparison of Parameters and Validations 4.10.1. Vibrations Present in the Terrain
4.3. Estimated Ground Motion under Seismic Conditions 4.10.2. Transmission of Waves and Vibrations in Different Types of Terrain
4.3.1. Predominant Frequency in a Stratum 4.10.3. Disturbance Transmission Modeling
4.3.2. Jake's Thrust Theory
4.3.3. Nakamura Simulation
Module 5. Land Treatment and Improvement
4.4. Earthquake Simulation and Modeling 5.1. Objectives. Movements and Property Enhancement
4.4.1. Semiempirical Formulas 5.1.1. Internal and Global Property Enhancement
4.4.2. Simulations in Finite Element Modeling 5.1.2. Practical Objectives
4.4.3. Analysis of Results 5.1.3. Improvement of Dynamic Behaviors
4.5. Seismicity in Foundations and Structures 5.2. Improvement by High-Pressure Mixing Injection
4.5.1. Modulus of Elasticity in Earthquakes 5.2.1. Typology of Soil Improvement by High-Pressure Grouting
4.5.2. Variation in the Stress-Strain Relationship 5.2.2. Characteristics of Jet-Grouting
4.5.3. Specific Rules for Piles 5.2.3. Injection Pressures
 Structure and Content | 29

5.3. Gravel Columns

5.3.1. Overall Use of Gravel Columns
5.3.2. Quantification of Land Property Improvements
5.3.3. Indications and Contraindications of Use
5.4. Improvement by Impregnation and Chemical Injection
5.4.1. Characteristics of Injections and Impregnation
5.4.2. Characteristics of Chemical Injections
5.4.3. Method Limitations
5.5. Freezing
5.5.1. Technical and Technological Aspects
5.5.2. Different Materials and Properties
5.5.3. Application and Limitation Fields
5.6. Preloading, Consolidations and Compactions
5.6.1. Preloading
5.6.2. Drained Preloading
5.6.3. Control During Ejection
5.7. Improvement by Drainage and Pumping
5.7.1. Temporary Drainage and Pumping
5.7.2. Utilities and Quantitative Improvement of Properties
5.7.3. Behavior after Restitution
5.8. Micropile Umbrellas
5.8.1. Ejection and Limitations
5.8.2. Resistant Capacity
5.8.3. Micropile Screens and Grouting
5.9. Comparison of Long-Term Results
5.9.1. Comparative Analysis of Land Treatment Methodologies
5.9.2. Treatments According to Their Practical Application
5.9.3. Combination of Treatments
5.10. Soil Decontamination
5.10.1. Physicochemical Processes
5.10.2. Biological Processes
5.10.3. Thermal Processes
 30 | Structure and Content

Module 6. Slope Analysis and Stability 6.8. Slopes in Dams with Loose Material
6.8.1. Particular Features of Slopes in Dams
6.1. Slope Stability and Calculations
6.8.2. Slope Behavior under Loose Materials Dam Loads
6.1.1. Factors Affecting Slopes Stability
6.8.3. Auscultation and Monitoring of Slope Evolution
6.1.2. Slope Foundation Stability
6.9. Dams in Maritime Works
6.1.3. Slope Body Stability
6.9.1. Particular Features of Slopes in Maritime Works
6.2. Factors that Influence Stability
6.9.2. Slope Behavior under Maritime Works
6.2.1. Geotechnical Stability
6.9.3. Auscultation and Monitoring of Slope Evolution
6.2.2. Conventional Slope Loads
6.10. Simulation and Comparative Software
6.2.3. Accidental Slope Loads
6.10.1. Simulations for Slopes in Rock and Soil
6.3. Ground Slopes
6.10.2. Bidimensional Calculations
6.3.1. Stability in Ground Slopes
6.10.3. Finite Element Modeling and Long-Term Calculations
6.3.2. Elements Influencing Stability
6.3.3. Calculation Methods Module 7. Superficial Foundations
6.4. Rock Slopes
7.1. Footings and Foundation Slabs
6.4.1. Stability in Rock Slopes
7.1.1. Most Common Types of Footings
6.4.2. Elements Influencing Stability
7.1.2. Rigid and Flexible Footings
6.4.3. Calculation Methods
7.1.3. Large Shallow Foundations
6.5. Foundation and Slope Base
7.2. Design Criteria and Regulations
6.5.1. Important Land Requirements
7.2.1. Factors that Affect Footing Design
6.5.2. Typology of Foundations
7.2.2. Elements Included in International Foundation Regulations
6.5.3. Base Land Considerations and Improvements
7.2.3. General Comparison Between Normative Criteria for Shallow Foundations
6.6. Breakages and Discontinuities
7.3. Forces on Foundations
6.6.1. Typologies of Slope Instability
7.3.1. Forces in Buildings
6.6.2. Characteristic Detection of Stability Losses
7.3.2. Forces in Retaining Structures
6.6.3. Short- and Long-Term Stability Improvement
7.3.3. Terrain Forces
6.7. Slope Protection
7.4. Foundation Stability
6.7.1. Parameters that Influence Stability Improvement
7.4.1. Bearing Capacity of the Soil
6.7.2. Short- and Long-Term Slope Protection
7.4.2. Sliding Stability of the Footing
6.7.3. Temporal Validity of Each Type of Protection Element
7.4.3. Tipping Stability
 Structure and Content | 31

7.5. Ground Friction and Adhesion Enhancement Module 8. Deep Foundations

7.5.1. Soil Characteristics Influencing Soil-Structure Friction
8.1. Piles: Calculation and Dimensioning
7.5.2. Soil-Structure Friction According to the Foundation Material
8.1.1. Types of Piles and Their Application to Each Structure
7.5.3. Soil-Citation Friction Improvement Methodologies
8.1.2. Limitations of Piles Used as Foundations
7.6. Foundation Repairs Underlay
8.1.3. Pile Calculation as Elements of Deep Foundations
7.6.1. Need for Foundation Repair
8.2. Alternative Deep Foundations
7.6.2. Types of Repairs
8.2.1. Other Types of Deep Foundations
7.6.3. Underlay Foundations
8.2.2. Particularities of Pile Alternatives
7.7. Displacement in Foundation Elements
8.2.3. Specific Works that Require Alternative Foundations
7.7.1. Displacement Limitation in Shallow Foundations
8.3. Pile Groups and Pile Caps
7.7.2. Consideration of Displacement in the Calculation of Shallow Foundations
8.3.1. Limitations of Piles Used as Individual Elements
7.7.3. Estimated Calculations in the Short Term and in the Long Term
8.3.2. Pile Caps of Pile Groups
7.8. Comparative Relative Costs
8.3.3. Limitations of Pile Groups and Interactions Between Piles
7.8.1. Estimated Value of Foundation Costs
8.4. Negative Friction
7.8.2. Comparison According to Superficial Foundations
8.4.1. Fundamental Principles and Influence
7.8.3. Estimation of Repair Costs
8.4.2. Consequences of Negative Friction
7.9. Alternative Methods Foundation Pits
8.4.3. Calculation and Mitigation of Negative Friction
7.9.1. Semi-Deep Superficial Foundations
8.5. Maximum Capacity and Structural Limitations
7.9.2. Calculation and Use of Pit Foundations
8.5.1. Individual Structural Topping of Piles
7.9.3. Limitations and Uncertainties About the Methodology
8.5.2. Maximum Capacity of Pile Groups
7.10. Types of Faults in Superficial Foundations
8.5.3. Interaction with Other Structures
7.10.1. Classic Breakages and Capacity Loss in Superficial Foundations
8.6. Faults in Deep Foundations
7.10.2. Ultimate Resistance in Superficial Foundations
8.6.1. Structural Instability in Deep Foundations
7.10.3. Overall Capacities and Safety Coefficients
8.6.2. Bearing Capacity of the Terrain
8.6.3. Maximum Ground Capacity
8.7. Deep Foundation Repairs
8.7.1. Interventions on Ground
8.7.2. Interventions on Foundations
8.7.3. Unconventional Systems
 32 | Structure and Content

8.8. Pile-Piles in Large Structures 9.5. Design and Pile Calculations

8.8.1. Special Needs in Special Foundations 9.5.1. Sheet Piles
8.8.2. Mixed-Pile Piles: Types and Uses 9.5.2. Sheet Pile Use Limitations
8.8.3. Mixed Foundations in Special Structures 9.5.3. Planning, Performance and Execution Details
8.9. Sonic Continuity and Auscultation Checks 9.6. Design and Continuous Sheet Calculations
8.9.1. Pre-Execution Inspections 9.6.1. Continuous Sheets
8.9.2. Checking the Condition of the Casting: Sonic Checks 9.6.2. Limitation of the Use of Continuous Sheets
8.9.3. Auscultation of Foundations During Service 9.6.3. Planning, Performance and Execution Details
8.10. Dimension Software for Foundations 9.7. Anchoring and Bracing
8.10.1. Individual Pile Simulations 9.7.1. Movement-Limiting Elements in Retaining Structures
8.10.2. Modeling of Pile Caps and Structural Assemblies 9.7.2. Types of Anchoring and Limiting Elements
8.10.3. Finite Element Methods in the Modeling of Deep Foundations 9.7.3. Control of Injections and Injection Materials
9.8. Ground Movements in Containment Structures
Module 9. Retaining Structures: Walls and Screens
9.8.1. Stiffness of Each Type of Retaining Structure
9.1. Ground Thrusts 9.8.2. Movement Limitations in the Ground
9.1.1. Ground Thrusts Present in Retention Structures 9.8.3. Empirical and Finite Element Computational Methods for Motions
9.1.2. Impact of Surface Loads on Thrusts 9.9. Decrease of Hydrostatic Pressure
9.1.3. Modeling of Seismic Loads in Retaining Structures 9.9.1. Hydrostatic Loads in Retaining Structures
9.2. Pressure Modulus and Ballast Coefficients 9.9.2. Behavior of Retention Structures According to Long-Term Hydrostatic Pressure
9.2.1. Determination of Geological Properties Influencing within Retaining Structures 9.9.3. Drainage and Waterproofing of Structures
9.2.2. Spring Type Models of Simulation in Retention Structures 9.10. Reliability in the Calculation of Retaining Structures
9.2.3. Pressure Modulus and Ballast Coefficient as Elements of Soil Resistance 9.10.1. Statistical Calculation in Retaining Structures
9.3. Walls: Types and Foundations 9.10.2. Safety Coefficients for the Design Criterion
9.3.1. Types of Walls and Behavior Differences 9.10.3. Types of Faults in Retaining Structures
9.3.2. Particularities of Each Type with Regard to Calculation and Limitation
9.3.3. Factors that Affect Inside the Foundation of the Walls
9.4. Continuous Sheet Piles, Sheet Piling and Pile Screens
9.4.1. Basic Differences in the Application of Each of the Screen Types
9.4.2. Individual Characteristics in Each Type
9.4.3. Structural Limitations of Each Type
 Structure and Content | 33

Module 10. Tunnel and Mining Engineering 10.8. Mining Engineering

10.8.1. Particular Characteristics of Mining Engineering
10.1. Excavation Methods
10.8.2. Particular Types of Excavation
10.1.1. Application of Methodologies According to Geology
10.8.3. Particular Planning for Mining Excavations
10.1.2. Excavation Methodologies According to Length
10.9. Ground Movements Seating
10.1.3. Construction Risks of Tunnel Excavation Methodologies
10.9.1. Movement Stages in Tunnel Excavations
10.2. Tunnels in Rock-Tunnels in Soil
10.9.2. Semiempirical Methods for the Determination of Tunnel Seating
10.2.1. Basic Differences in Tunnel Excavation According to Terrain
10.9.3. Finite Element Calculation Methodologies
10.2.2. Problems in the Excavation of Tunnels in Soil
10.10. Seismic and Hydrostatic Loads in Tunnels
10.2.3. Problems Encountered in the Excavation of Rock Tunnels
10.10.1. Influence of Hydraulic Loads in Support Coatings
10.3. Tunnels with Conventional Methods
10.10.2. Long-Term Hydrostatic Loads in Tunnels
10.3.1. Conventional Excavation Methodologies
10.10.3. Seismic Modeling and its Impact on Tunnel Design
10.3.2. Excavation Ability of Terrain
10.3.3. Yields According to Methodology and Geotechnical Characteristics
10.4. Tunnels with Mechanical Methods (TBM)
10.4.1. Types of TBM
10.4.2. Tunnel Supports in Tunnels Excavated with TBM
10.4.3. Yields According to Methodology and Geomechanical Characteristics
10.5. Microtunnels
10.5.1. Range of Use of Microtunnels
10.5.2. Methodologies According to the Objectives and Geology
10.5.3. Coatings and Limitations of Microtunnels
10.6. Support and Coatings A unique learning opportunity that
10.6.1. General Support Calculation Methodology
10.6.2. Sizing of Final Coatings will catapult your career to the next
10.6.3. Long-Term Behavior of Coatings
level. Don't let it slip away"
10.7. Wells, Galleries and Connections
10.7.1. Well and Gallery Sizing
10.7.2. Connections and Provisional Breakages of Tunnels
10.7.3. Auxiliary Elements in the Excavation of Shafts, Galleries and Connections
06
Methodology
This academic program offers students a different way of learning. Our methodology
uses a cyclical learning approach: Relearning.
This teaching system is used, for example, in the most prestigious medical schools in
the world, and major publications such as the New England Journal of Medicine have
considered it to be one of the most effective.
 Methodology | 35

Discover Relearning, a system that abandons

conventional linear learning, to take you through
cyclical teaching systems: a way of learning that
has proven to be extremely effective, especially in
subjects that require memorization"
 36 | Methodology

Case Study to contextualize all content

Our program offers a revolutionary approach to developing skills and
knowledge. Our goal is to strengthen skills in a changing, competitive, and
highly demanding environment.

At TECH, you will experience a

learning methodology that is shaking
the foundations of traditional
universities around the world"

You will have access to a

learning system based on repetition,
with natural and progressive teaching
throughout the entire syllabus
 Methodology | 37

A learning method that is different and innovative

This TECH program is an intensive educational program, created from scratch,
which presents the most demanding challenges and decisions in this field,
both nationally and internationally. This methodology promotes personal and
professional growth, representing a significant step towards success. The case
method, a technique that lays the foundation for this content, ensures that the
most current economic, social and professional reality is taken into account.

Our program prepares you to face new

challenges in uncertain environments
and achieve success in your career”

The case method is the most widely used learning system in the best faculties in the
world. The case method was developed in 1912 so that law students would not only
learn the law based on theoretical content. It consisted of presenting students with
real-life, complex situations for them to make informed decisions and value judgments
on how to resolve them. In 1924, Harvard adopted it as a standard teaching method.
The student will learn to solve What should a professional do in a given situation? This is the question that you are
complex situations in real business presented with in the case method, an action-oriented learning method. Throughout
environments through collaborative the program, the studies will be presented with multiple real cases. They will have to

activities and real cases combine all their knowledge and research, and argue and defend
their ideas and decisions.
 38 | Methodology

Relearning Methodology
TECH effectively combines the Case Study methodology with a
100% online learning system based on repetition, which combines 8
different teaching elements in each lesson.

We enhance the Case Study with the best 100% online teaching
method: Relearning.

In 2019, we obtained the best learning

results of all online universities in the world

At TECH, you will learn using a cutting-edge methodology designed to

educate the executives of the future. This method, at the forefront of
international teaching, is called Relearning.

Our university is the only one in the world authorized to employ this
successful method. In 2019, we managed to improve our students'
overall satisfaction levels (teaching quality, quality of materials, course
structure, objectives...) based on the best online university indicators.
 Methodology | 39

In our program, learning is not a linear process, but rather a spiral (learn, unlearn,
forget, and relearn). Therefore, we combine each of these elements concentrically.
This methodology has trained more than 650,000 university graduates with
unprecedented success in fields as diverse as biochemistry, genetics, surgery,
international law, management skills, sports science, philosophy, law, engineering,
journalism, history, and financial markets and instruments. All this in a highly
demanding environment, where the students have a strong socio-economic profile
and an average age of 43.5 years.

Relearning will allow you to learn with less effort and

better performance, involving you more in your learning,
developing a critical mindset, defending arguments, and
contrasting opinions: a direct equation for success.

From the latest scientific evidence in the field of neuroscience, not only do we know
how to organize information, ideas, images and memories, but we know that the
place and context where we have learned something is fundamental for us to be able
to remember it and store it in the hippocampus, to retain it in our long-term memory.

In this way, and in what is called neurocognitive context-dependent elearning, the

different elements in our program are connected to the context where the individual
carries out their professional activity.
 40 | Methodology

This program offers the best educational material, prepared with professionals in mind:

30%
Study Material
All teaching material is produced by the specialists who teach the course, specifically
for the course, so that the teaching content is highly specific and precise.
These contents are then applied to the audiovisual format, to create the TECH online
working method. All this, with the latest techniques that offer high quality pieces in each
and every one of the materials that are made available to the student.

Classes
There is scientific evidence suggesting that observing third-party experts can
be useful.
Learning from an Expert strengthens knowledge and memory, and generates
confidence in future difficult decisions.

Practising Skills and Abilities 10%

They will carry out activities to develop specific skills and abilities in each subject area.
Exercises and activities to acquire and develop the skills and abilities that a specialist
needs to develop in the context of the globalization that we are experiencing.

Additional Reading
8%
Recent articles, consensus documents and international guidelines, among others.
In TECH's virtual library, students will have access to everything they need to
complete their course.
 Methodology | 41

Case Studies
Students will complete a selection of the best case studies chosen specifically
for this program. Cases that are presented, analyzed, and supervised by the best
specialists in the world.

20%

Interactive Summaries
The TECH team presents the contents attractively and dynamically in multimedia
lessons that include audio, videos, images, diagrams, and concept maps in order to
reinforce knowledge.
This exclusive educational system for presenting multimedia content was awarded
by Microsoft as a "European Success Story".

25%
Testing & Retesting
We periodically evaluate and re-evaluate students’ knowledge throughout the
4% program, through assessment and self-assessment activities and exercises, so that
3% they can see how they are achieving their goals.
07
Certificate
The Professional Master's Degree in Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering
guarantees you, in addition to the most rigorous and up-to-date education, access
to a Professional Master’s Degree issued by TECH Global University.
 Certificate | 43

Successfully complete this program

and receive your university qualification
without travel or laborious paperwork”
 44 | Certificate

This program will allow you to obtain your Professional Master’s Degree diploma in Geotechnical This TECH Global University title is a European program of continuing education and professional
and Foundation Engineering endorsed by TECH Global University, the world’s largest online updating that guarantees the acquisition of competencies in its area of knowledge, providing a
university. high curricular value to the student who completes the program.

TECH Global University is an official European University publicly recognized by the Government Title: Professional Master’s Degree in Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering
of Andorra (official bulletin). Andorra is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) Modality: online
since 2003. The EHEA is an initiative promoted by the European Union that aims to organize
Duration: 12 months
the international training framework and harmonize the higher education systems of the
Accreditation: 60 ECTS
member countries of this space. The project promotes common values, the implementation of
collaborative tools and strengthening its quality assurance mechanisms to enhance collaboration
and mobility among students, researchers and academics.

ECTS ECTS

60 6
6
6
6
60
6
6
6
6
6
6

*Apostille Convention. In the event that the student wishes to have their paper diploma issued with an apostille, TECH Global University will make the necessary arrangements to obtain it, at an additional cost.
Professional Master’s
Degree
Geotechnical and
Foundation Engineering
» Modality: online
» Duration: 12 months
» Certificate: TECH Global University
» Credits: 60 ECTS
» Schedule: at your own pace
» Exams: online
Professional Master’s Degree
Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering