Structural Engineering

Faculty

• Dr. Mazdak Tootkaboni

Overview

Structural engineering is the art and science of determining the forms and shapes of man's structures so that they are able to support the loads imposed on them.

Structural engineers design and evaluate the behavior of buildings, bridges, stadiums, airports, power plants, underground structures, ocean structures, and more. In fact, as the late Dr. Thomas Kavanah, frequently stated, "If something is large, if it is one of a kind, if it is important in the daily lives of a great many people, the chances are it is planned and designed by a structural engineer."

The goals of structural engineering are to design a structure being strong, stable, durable, and reliable, at a minimum possible cost. In order to achieve these goals the structural engineer should have broad range of knowledge and skill.

At UMass Dartmouth, students build a strong foundation in structural engineering and construction materials. Structural mechanics, analysis, steel and reinforced concrete design, and computer methods are parts of the program.

Students have the opportunity to conduct research in different structural engineering areas, such as a new construction materials or a new analysis techniques for structures. The experience prepares students for the next step into professional practice or research.

Completion of the Civil Engineering program at UMass Dartmouth fulfills all the first professional degree requirements for entrance into the structural engineering profession.