Study with Barbara Rossi from University of Oxford
Civil Engineering: Fundamentals of modern structural engineering and design

Prof. Dr. Barbara Rossi

Professor Introduction
University of Oxford

Programme Dates

July–September 2026

Programme Duration

10 Weeks

Age Range

Prep, Grades 9, 10, 11

Application Deadline

15 May 2026

Programme Fee

980 GBP

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40

Advanced Research & Lectures
Hours

10

Neuroeconomics & Decision Science Topics Covered

95%

Previous Students Satisfaction Rate

100%

Supervision by Oxford/Cambridge professors and tutors

Programme Description

Structural engineering, mainly using mechanical methods to analyze and design structures, and to evaluate and maintain structures.

The research object of structural engineering in a broad sense refers to all artificial structures on the earth's surface or in the shallow crust. The more narrow definition of structural engineering includes mainly industrial and civil buildings. Like medical technology and agricultural technology, human development also requires the advancement of engineering technology.

This course explores the basic knowledge of structural engineering and related theories, such as the composition of structural components (cables, steel bars, beams, plates, plates, shells), the theory of forces, the combination and decomposition of forces; Balance of force and moment; Structural system balance; External stress on the structural system; The relationship between external forces and internal forces; Calculate and determine the internal forces and moments of simple statically indeterminate systems, etc.

Students learn how structures are optimized, what types of external forces act on structures, and how to check whether a simple structure is in equilibrium.

Students will also learn how flat structures such as frames, trusses, or arches transfer external loads to the ground.

Who can join the programme?

  • High school students
  • University students
  • Students interested in applied physics, applied chemistry, civil engineering, environmental engineering, architectural engineering, materials engineering, or related fields

The programme can certainly provide excellent preparation for the IB Extended Essay (EE). It helps students understand the research process, develop research questions, and practice academic writing. If students follow our instructor-led programme and produce strong work, the outcome will be a high-quality paper that can be used as preparation for the IB Extended Essay.

Online Group Research Learning & Thesis Guidance

Programme Learning Report

Certificate of Completion

Recommendation Letter Signed by Professor

Published Research Paper Option

Syllabus

Structural systems and loads, safety and design: Typical structural systems, Basic structural elements, States of stresses, Typical support systems, Structural systems, Buildings; Bridges, Bridge deck systems, Types of loads, Design process

Structural Mechanics: Forces and Moments, Supports, Static Equilibrium, Static Determinacy

Geotechnical engineering / soil mechanics

Digital underground construction

AI for the underground space; Sensor technologies

Structural engineering

Bridge engineering; Truss structure:Analysis of Planar trusses, Truss Stability and Determinacy, Method of Joint, case study: K-Truss

Problem-based learning sessions: design a bridge in London; Case study: Examples of high-rise building structures, Burj Khalifa

Programme Schedule

Date Time
Lesson 1 25 July 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 2 01 August 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 3 08 August 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 4 15 August 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 5 22 August 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 6 29 August 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 7 05 September 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 8 12 September 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 9 19 September 2026 10am - 12pm London time
Lesson 10 26 September 2026 10am - 12pm London time

Published Research Paper Option

Once students have completed the final draft of their papers, they may choose to submit their work to international academic journals indexed by CPCI or EI. We provide guidance and support throughout the submission process for these indexed publications.

The publication fee is £690 per research article, as determined by the journal. Once an article is accepted, it typically becomes searchable on Google and on the journal’s platform approximately seven months after the publication offer is made.