Introduction to Bridge Engineering

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

In this class we will study how bridges are built and why they don’t fall. We will review their history, from the classical roman arch to modern cable-stayed bridges, and apply principles of mechanics to understand load paths and material strength. By the end of the class students will be able to identify the components of a bridge, differentiate bridge types and the span range for each type, track their historic evolution, list common problems encountered in bridges, recognize market sectors for professional development and opportunities offered by the bridge engineering industry.