Advanced structural analysis
Graduate · Engineering
Syllabus focus
Topics typically covered
Standard syllabus
Matrix structural analysis
- Direct stiffness method for 2D/3D frames
- Coordinate transformations and global assembly
- Release conditions and semi-rigid connections
- Geometric stiffness and P-Δ effects intro
- Substructuring and superelements
- Nonlinear material models for frames (intro)
- Plastic hinge formation and pushover analysis
- Cable and membrane structures (intro)
- Plate and shell element formulations overview
- Convergence and ill-conditioning in FE models
Structural dynamics and earthquake engineering
- MDOF modal analysis and response spectra
- Duhamel integral and modal superposition
- Damping models: Rayleigh and modal damping
- Response spectrum analysis for seismic loads
- Time-history analysis intro
- Base isolation and energy dissipation devices
- Soil-structure interaction effects
- Wind loading and along-wind response
- Vibration serviceability for floors and bridges
- Performance-based seismic design concepts
STEM / applied
Design codes and advanced applications
- AISC steel design provisions at advanced level
- ACI concrete frame and shear wall modeling
- LRFD versus ASD philosophy in codes
- Forensic analysis of structural collapses
- Long-span bridge structural systems
- High-rise building lateral systems
- Retrofit and strengthening techniques
- Probabilistic structural reliability intro
- BIM-structural analysis interoperability
- Thesis topic development in structures
Research and computational practice
- Nonlinear FE software: OpenSees, Abaqus
- Progressive collapse and robustness
- Shape memory alloys in structures (survey)
- 3D printed structural components testing
- Machine learning for damage detection
- Experimental shake table testing awareness
- Peer review of structural journal papers
- Professional engineer licensure for structural stamp
- International building code comparisons
- Qualifying exam structures preparation
Study units
Each unit includes a study guide, worksheets, review, practice test, and answer key. One unit is free; subscribe for the full class.
- Matrix structural analysis
Direct stiffness method for 2D/3D frames
Coming soon - Structural dynamics and earthquake engineering
MDOF modal analysis and response spectra
Coming soon - Design codes and advanced applications
AISC steel design provisions at advanced level
Coming soon - Research and computational practice
Nonlinear FE software: OpenSees, Abaqus
Coming soon
Notes
Topics reflect common engineering syllabi at US colleges and universities. Exact order, depth, and applied emphasis vary by institution, department, and instructor.