Geological Engineering
UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
TUCSON, ARIZONA

Geological Engineering
integrates geosciences and engineering.

Geosciences cover the evolution, composition, structure of earth systems, and changes that take place in the earth. Engineers apply scientific knowledge, laboratory and field-exploration methods, computational techniques, and engineering judgment (through experience), to determine physical, engineering and chemical properties of earth systems and to analyze and design geo-engineering structures for the benefit of society.
Geological Engineering is a high-tech field. Data are collected with state-of-the-art instrumentation. Advanced computer technology and sophisticated software are used to analyze and process data. Geo-engineers utilize pattern recognition, image processing, statistical and probabilistic techniques. The unique blend of geological expertise and engineering knowledge, which geological engineers offer, is in demand throughout the world.

 UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA CAMPUS MALL

GEOPHYSICS FIELD CAMP,
 NEAR HUACHUCA MTNS, SOUTHERN ARIZONA

TOUR OF YUCCA MOUNTAIN,
PROPOSED WASTE RESPOSITORY

SHEAR TEST, GEOMECHANICS CLASS

COMPRESSION TEST, GEOMECHANICS CLASS

• natural-resource exploration & development (mining, petroleum, water, geothermal)
• environmental site characterization and remediation
• geotechnical investigation and design for hazardous-waste disposal sites, building and bridge foundations, dams and tunnels
• design of retaining walls, highway & railway embankments, highway and mine slopes
• underground rock excavation for shelter, transportation, storage and utilities
• earth materials for construction
• effects of natural disasters such as earthquakes, landslides and floods

COURSES IN THE GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING PROGRAM provide a strong fundamental knowledge and skills in engineering and earth sciences, including courses in:

• physics, chemistry, mathematics
• geosciences, hydrogeology
• mechanics, soil and rock engineering
• geophysical engineering
• computer programming
• geographic information systems (GIS)
• English, general education, social sciences and humanities
• communication, team work and leadership

ROCK SLOPE STABILITY FIELD TRIP

GEOLOGICAL ENGINEERING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Upon graduation, Geological Engineers are prepared to start a successful career as a practicing engineer, or to engage in graduate studies in a geo-engineering discipline. Graduates find employment in:

• geotechnical, geophysical, and geo-environmental fields
• water resource, construction, and mining companies
• oil & gas production industry
• federal, state and local
• government agencies
• and laboratories 
• educational institutions

Graduates have the flexibility to choose a field job, office job, or a combination between the two. Career opportunities can be found throughout the world, with exciting potential for travel to exotic places during your geological engineering career.

MINING DEVELOPMENT
Phelps Dodge, Morenci

WATER RESOURCES
CONSTRUCTION
OIL EXPLORATION
AND DEVELOPMENT
MINING EXPLORATION
Phelps Dodge, Morenci

A UNIQUE ELECTROMAGNETIC SUBSURFACE
IMAGING SYSTEM HAS BEEN DEVELOPED IN
THE LASI LAB

AN IMAGE PRODUCED WITH THIS SYSTEM
SHOWS THE LOCATION OF A CONTAMINANT PLUME

The University of Arizona is a leader in research in the high-tech field of Geological Engineering.

The Laboratory for Advanced Subsurface Imaging (LASI) works on novel methods for subsurface exploration in diverse fields, such as water resources, environmental restoration, mining, petroleum, and unexploded ordnance mapping.

Innovative research on rock mass fracture geometry characterization and effect of fractures on rock slope stability, underground rock mass stability, and hydro-mechanical behavior of jointed rock masses is being carried out in the Rock Mass Modeling and Computational Rock Mechanics Laboratory.

HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY TENSOR
IN 3-D : FRACTURED ROCK MASS SITE IN CA

Dr. Pinnaduwa H. S. W. Kulatilake
Professor, Geological Engineering
Director, Rock Mass Modeling and Computational Rock
   Mechanics Laboratory
Tel.  520-621-6064, FAX 520-621-8059
kulatila@u.arizona.edu