Reinforced Concrete Design
CSEN3003

Introduction

Civil and construction engineers play a critical role in shaping the built environment, ensuring that structures are safe, durable, and compliant with design standards. Reinforced concrete is one of the most widely used materials in construction, forming the foundation of buildings, bridges, and infrastructure throughout Australia. This unit provides a practical and theoretical introduction to the design of reinforced concrete structures, with a focus on the application of the Australian Standard AS 3600. Students will learn to design key structural elements— including beams, slabs, columns, footings, and retaining walls—using current industry practices and code requirements.

Building on concepts covered in earlier units such as statics, structural analysis, and material mechanics, students will deepen their understanding of load paths, section behaviour, and failure mechanisms in reinforced concrete components. Topics such as bending, shear, axial load interaction, and serviceability are addressed through both analytical and design-focused tasks.

Through worked examples, design assignments, and case-based learning, students will develop the skills to interpret and apply design standards confidently. A strong mathematical component underpins the unit, requiring students to apply concepts from calculus and algebra to perform structural calculations, verify compliance with design codes, and evaluate the strength and serviceability of structural elements. By the end of this unit, students will be equipped to undertake reinforced concrete design in line with Australian practice, forming a strong foundation for further study and professional work in structural engineering. The unit supports the development of Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competencies, particularly in the areas of discipline knowledge (1.3), standards and sustainability (1.6), problem solving (2.1), and application of technical tools and techniques (2.2).