UFMF5E-20-1: Mathematics for Civil and

Environmental Engineering
Version: 11
Level: 1
UWE credit rating: 20   ECTS credits: 10
Module type: Standard
Owning Faculty: Environment and Technology
Field: Engineering Design and Mathematics
Faculty Committee approval: _ Date:
Approved for Delivery by: _
Valid from: 2011-09-01
Discontinued from:

Contributes towards:
 BEng (Hons) Architecture and Environmental Engineering
 BEng (Hons) Building Services Engineering
 BSc (Hons) Building Services Engineering
 BEng (Hons) Civil and Environmental Engineering

Pre-requisites:
No specific modules

Co-requisites:
No specific modules

Entry requirements:
Excluded combinations:
(Engineering Mathematics UFQETH-10-1 AND Introductory Mathematics UFQETG-10-1
AND Mathematical Techniques  UFMERF-20-1 )

Learning outcomes:
  the application of mathematical models used to describe and solve engineering
problems encountered in civil and environmental engineering [Comp A B]
 the mathematical language, concepts and techniques which form the basis for
analytical and numerical investigations in engineering [Comp A B]
 logical thinking and the use of symbolic language to describe the relationships
between real or abstract quantities in the context of problems that arise in engineering
[Comp A B]
 recognition and understanding of the mathematical language and concepts met in this
module when encountered elsewhere [Comp A B]
 algebraic manipulation for the study of engineering at an undergraduate level [Comp
A B]
 application of analytical and numerical techniques to the solution of non-linear
equations [Comp A B]
 solution of problems that arise in a variety of engineering contexts that require the use
of differential and integral calculus [Comp A B]
 solution of problems that arise in a variety of engineering contexts that require the use
of matrices and vectors [Comp A B]
 communication skills [Comp A B]
 problem formulation and decision making [Comp A B]
 self-management skills [Comp B]

Syllabus outline:
1. Mathematical Modelling and Applications

Students will be introduced to the concept of a mathematical model and how to interpret a
model in context. As part of this work students will study the modelling cycle and be able to
appreciate how to formulate a model from a real problem in simple cases. Underlying
assumptions behind a given model will be explored and methods for verifying the correctness
or appropriateness of a model will be covered and will include, checking physical
dimensions, comparison with simulated experimental data and considering special cases.

Applications will be chosen either because of their direct relevance to civil /environmental
engineering or because of their value in providing a clear picture as to how a mathematical
model provides a symbolic representation of a physical problem and how it can be used to
manipulate and extract information.

Indicative applications: Dimensional analysis, statics, dynamics, stress analysis, channel

flow, cooling problems, input – output models applied to air flow in a building or pollution in
a water source, power law and exponential models.

2. Mathematical Techniques

Algebraic Manipulation: Transposition of formulae, factorization, completing the square,

algebraic fractions, partial fractions.

Engineering Functions: Properties of standard engineering functions such as; polynomials,

rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions and trigonometric functions, the
inverse function, solving non-linear equations.
Matrix and Vector Algebra: Properties of matrices and determinants, the inverse matrix,
Gaussian elimination. Vector and scalar quantities, resolution of forces, properties of vector
quantities, vector addition, unit vectors, position vectors, scalar product, vector product.

Differential Calculus: Limits, average rate and instantaneous rate of change, revision of
standard derivatives, linear properties, product rule, quotient rule and chain rule. Higher order
derivatives, classification of turning points, numerical solution of non-linear equations.
Taylor style approximations.

Integral Calculus: Revision of standard integrals, indefinite and definite integration,

integration by parts, numerical integration.

Solution of Differential Equations: Solution of first order differential equations. Numerical

solution of first order differential equations using Euler’s method.

Teaching and learning methods:

There will be two different modes of delivery for this module which will normally be
determined by the student’s award.

The class based delivery will involve a mixture of a whole group sessions followed by
smaller group tutorial/workshops.

A blended learning delivery will be available, typically to those studying while in full-time
work with distance learning materials used to deliver content and a series of workshops to
provide additional support and consolidation.

The distance learning resources will be made available to all students on the module.

Indicative sources:
The following list is offered to provide validation panels/accrediting bodies with an
indication of the type and level of information students may be expected to consult. As such,
its currency may wane during the life span of the module specification. However, CURRENT
advice on readings will be available via other more frequently updated mechanisms.

 Croft, A. & Davidson, R. (2010) Engineering Mathematics [A Modern Interactive

Approach]. Prentice-Hall.
 Sing, K. (2003) Engineering Mathematics through Applications. Palgrave.
 Stroud, K. A. (2007) Engineering Mathematics (6th edition). Palgrave.
 James, G. (2010) Modern Engineering Mathematics (4th edition). Prentice-Hall.

Reading strategy:
Essential Reading
Students are required to buy a course text which provides the main source of notes for the
module. The module handbook will provide details of the required text and a programme of
directed study based on this reference.

Further Reading

The module handbook will provide a list of other texts that may be used to complement the
main course reference. In additional to this supporting web-based learning material in the
form of leaflets will be made available via an internet link.

Background Reading

The module handbook will provide details of texts and web-based learning materials that
cover the essential pre-requisite material requires to understand the topics at the level covered
by this module.

Assessment for UFMF5E-20-1 (Standard)

Weighting between components A: 60 B: 40

ATTEMPT 1

First sit

Component A Element weighting

Examination [180 min] 100
Component B Element weighting
Assignment 1 25
Assignment 2 25
Assignment 3 25
Computer-based Tests 25

Second sit

(Further attendance at taught classes is not required)

Component A Element weighting
Examination [180 min] 100
Component B Element weighting
Assignment 100

EXCEPTIONAL SECOND (OR SUBSEQUENT) ATTEMPT

Attendance at taught classes is not required.

Specification confirmed by

_________________________
[Signature of Dean, Associate Dean or Programme Director]