Structural Analysis

Unit code: NEC3101 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
NEC2102 - Solid Mechanics
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit develops advanced knowledge and skills in the analysis of structural systems subjected to static loading, with a focus on trusses, beams, and rigid frames. Students engage with both classical and matrix-based methods such as stiffness and flexibility approaches and apply commercial software to determine internal forces, displacements, and structural stability. Emphasis is placed on engineering problem-solving, model development and validation, and the interpretation of structural behaviour to support safe and efficient design decisions. Through collaborative tasks, professional communication, and structured analysis, students strengthen their ability to work effectively in teams, demonstrate engineering judgement, and apply digital tools with confidence in real-world contexts.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Determine internal axial forces, shear forces, and bending moments in statically determinate and indeterminate structures;
  2. Evaluate deflections and rotations in structural systems composed of connected linear elements under linear-elastic assumptions;
  3. Collaborate effectively within a team setting to construct and analyse digital models of structural systems using commercial structural analysis software, and validate outputs against theoretical expectations;
  4. Critically review and compare approximate analysis techniques for common structural forms; and
  5. Formulate and resolve standard structural engineering problems using both analytical and computational methods, demonstrating sound engineering judgement.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 40%
Analysis Exercise Part 1 and 2 (Group) (1500 words each)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Problem-solving scenario test (Individual) (60 minutes)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 30%
Problem-solving scenario test (Individual) (60 minutes)

Portfolio: Analysis of determinate and indeterminate structural systems. These progressive assessments ensure accountability through structured reflection, documented collaboration, and detailed explanation of techniques, with in-class progressive milestone checks linked to individual students also being used to enhance security. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further support the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.

Tests: These are invigilated secure assessments with unpredictable questions that test deep understanding, require explanation of reasoning and process, and include application to new scenarios.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering)
NHEC | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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