Geotechnical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Geotechnical Engineering at the University of Ottawa offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of geotechnical engineering, preparing graduates for a career in designing, analyzing, and supervising projects involving soil and rock mechanics. The program combines core engineering fundamentals with specialized courses that explore the behavior of earth materials, site investigation techniques, foundation design, slope stability, and environmental considerations related to geotechnical works. Students will develop strong skills in problem-solving, project management, and sustainable engineering practices, with opportunities for hands-on experiences through laboratory work, field studies, and collaborative research projects. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of safety, ethical standards, and innovative solutions in engineering design, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex geotechnical challenges in infrastructure development, urban planning, and natural resource management. In addition, students will learn about the use of modern software tools and laboratory equipment essential for geotechnical analysis. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, teamwork, and professional communication, preparing students for employment in consulting firms, construction companies, government agencies, or to pursue graduate studies. With its strategic location and partnerships within the industry, the University of Ottawa provides students with excellent networking opportunities and access to leading experts in the field. Graduates of this program will be capable of contributing to sustainable development and innovative geotechnical solutions that meet societal needs while respecting environmental constraints. Upon completion of the BSc in Geotechnical Engineering, graduates will be eligible for registration as professional engineers and ready to embark on successful careers making meaningful impacts in the infrastructure, environmental, and resource sectors.

• DEEP FOUNDATIONS 
• SITE IMPROVEMENTS
• MECHANICS OF UNSATURATED SOILS
• NUMERICAL METHODS FOR GEOTHECHNICAL ENGINEERS
• ICE MECHANICS
• CASE STUDIES IN GEOTHECHNICAL ENGINEERING
• ADVANCED SOIL MECHANICS I
• ADVANCED SOIL MECHANICS II 
• PAVEMENTS AND MATERIALS
• EARTH RETAINING STRUCTURES
• FOUNDATION ENGINEERING
• IN SITU METHODS IN GEOMECHANICS
• NUMERICAL METHODS IN GEOMECHANICS
• SEEPAGE AND WATER FLOW THROUGH SOILS

Requirements

• Hold a related master's degree
• Application Fee:$100.00 ($CDN non-refundable)
• 2 Recommendation letter(s)
• Transcript
• Proof of proficiency in your program's language of instruction, in the case of applicants whose first language is neither English nor French
  Language proficiency test scores equivalencies:TOEFL 550 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 5.0 (Paper-based), TOEFL 79-80 / IELTS Overall 6.5 - Individual 5.0 (Internet-based)
• Preference form
• Resume
• Graduates from other programs have to take all undergraduate mathematics + must have command of English and a minimum of four relevant undergraduate courses

Scholarships

• Full/Partial FGPS Scholarship
• Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
• Mitacs Globalink Fellowship

The University of Ottawa offers a specialized program in Geotechnical Engineering, which is a sub-discipline of Civil Engineering focused on the behavior of earth materials and their application in the design and construction of foundations, slopes, retaining structures, and other geotechnical systems. This program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of soil and rock mechanics, providing the technical skills necessary to evaluate ground conditions, predict geotechnical performance, and develop innovative solutions for infrastructure projects.

Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to engage in both theoretical coursework and practical laboratory and field experiences. Core courses typically include topics such as soil mechanics, foundation engineering, earth retaining structures, slope stability, geotechnical design, and environmental geotechnics. The curriculum often emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices in geotechnical engineering and incorporates current technological advances such as geotechnical instrumentation, numerical modeling, and geotechnical risk assessment.

The program may also include opportunities for research and collaboration with industry professionals, allowing students to participate in projects related to infrastructure development, waste containment, tunneling, and other geotechnical challenges. Graduates from this program are prepared for careers in consulting firms, government agencies, construction companies, and research institutions. They can work on designing foundations for buildings and bridges, evaluating landslide risks, or developing geotechnical solutions for environmental remediation.

The faculty involved in delivering the Geotechnical Engineering program at the University of Ottawa is composed of experts with extensive research backgrounds and industry experience. The university supports students through various resources such as modern laboratories, technical workshops, and internships. Additionally, the program emphasizes professional development and ethical practices in engineering.

Overall, the Geotechnical Engineering program at the University of Ottawa offers a rigorous academic pathway for students interested in understanding and solving complex ground-related engineering problems, with a strong foundation in both scientific principles and practical application. Upon graduation, students are well-positioned to contribute effectively to major infrastructure projects and innovations in the field of geotechnical engineering.