Reinforced concrete research involves studies in areas such as columns, beam-column joint details, anchorage of reinforcement, and repair of damaged members subjected to seismic loading. Model and full-scale prestressed concrete, steel plate girders, and composite highway bridges are studied. The lateral and local stability of structural steel beams, the behavior of bolted and welded beam-column connections, and the ultimate strength of tubular joints in offshore structures are investigated. Parallel-chord wood floor trusses have been investigated, along with the ultimate load capacity of wood joist floor systems. Masonry research involves static and dynamic testing of structural elements and subassemblages.
Extensive use is made of computer-based procedures for extension of limit design concepts.
In addition, experimental data are correlated with the results of modern, computer-aided analysis techniques. Research topics related to offshore engineering range from fluid- structure interaction and wave forces, to dynamic response of offshore platforms and analysis of piles and pile groups. Degrees Incoming M.S. students are expected to have undergraduate preparation in Structural Engineering that is roughly equivalent to that offered at The University of Texas at Austin. The program provides the opportunity for study at the M.S. and Ph.D. levels. M.S. Program - The M.S. degree requires completion of a specified number of courses and the preparation of a report or thesis.