Geotechnical Engineering is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on studying the behavior of ground materials, including soil and rock, and using this knowledge in the design and implementation of foundations, underground facilities, and various structures. This specialty aims to ensure the safety and stability of structures that interact with the ground. Here’s a comprehensive look at the main aspects of the geotechnical engineering major:

Theoretical basics:

• Study of soil and rock mechanics to understand their physical and mechanical properties.
• Understand the basic principles of stress, stress and strain in geomaterials.

Foundation analysis and design:

• Designing shallow and deep foundations such as piles, columns and strip foundations.
• Soil bearing and stability analysis to ensure foundation safety.

Stability of slopes and ground structures:

• Analysis of the stability of natural and artificial slopes to avoid landslides.
• Design barriers and support systems to improve slope stability.

Geotechnical environmental engineering:

• Addressing environmental pollution and restoring contaminated sites using geotechnical techniques.
• Designing waste disposal and lining systems to reduce environmental pollution.

Seismic engineering:

• Study the effect of earthquakes on soil and structures and analyze the response of structures to earthquakes.
• Designing earthquake protection systems to reduce damage caused by earthquakes.

Dynamic soil:

• Study of soil behavior under dynamic loads such as wind and earthquakes.
• Design structures to withstand dynamic loads and ensure their stability.

Geotechnical exploration techniques:

• Use drilling techniques and field tests to analyze soil and rock properties.
• Apply techniques such as geophysics and geochemistry to explore and analyze sites.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing:

• Using geographic information systems to analyze geotechnical data and plan projects.
• Applying remote sensing techniques to collect and analyze data in geotechnical projects.

Geotechnical modeling and simulation:

• Use software and mathematical models to simulate the behavior of soil and underground structures.
• Analyze data from simulations to improve the design and implementation of geotechnical projects.

Research and development:

• Participate in research and development projects to improve geotechnical engineering techniques and materials.
• Publishing research and participating in scientific conferences to share results and innovations.

Practical training and practical applications:

• Obtain practical experience through internships in civil engineering companies and geotechnical projects.
• Work on real projects to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical environment.

Professional ethics and practices:

• Understand ethical and professional issues in geotechnical engineering.
• Adherence to engineering standards and laws to ensure the safety and quality of projects.

The Geotechnical Engineering major provides broad opportunities to work in multiple fields such as foundation design, slope stabilization, environmental engineering, and seismic engineering. This specialty contributes to building safe and stable structures and improving infrastructure, which supports sustainable development and keeps communities safe.