Civil Engineering Design: The Glen Canyon Dam Case Study

Understanding how massive infrastructure projects are planned, designed, and managed is essential for anyone aspiring to enter the field of civil and environmental engineering. This text-based course provides a comprehensive introduction to civil engineering design using the iconic Glen Canyon Dam as a central case study. You will explore the core principles of structural mechanics, hydrology, and environmental impact assessment that govern large-scale public works. What you'll learn: • Understand foundational civil engineering terminology and structural design principles for massive concrete dams. • Analyze the hydrological concepts of water storage, river basin management, and spillway design. • Evaluate environmental impacts, ecological consequences, and modern mitigation strategies for large reservoirs. • Examine modern climate resilience planning and water resource management in arid regions. • Apply basic engineering decision-making frameworks to balance infrastructure needs with environmental sustainability. The course begins with essential terminology and the physical principles of dam design, before progressing to hydrological modeling, environmental impact evaluations, and modern sustainability challenges. This introductory course is designed for aspiring civil engineers, environmental science students, and curious learners with no prior engineering background. Start reading today to build your foundational knowledge of civil engineering design.