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Seismology to Earthquake Engineering

Jean François Semblat, Benjamin RICHARD, and Cédric Giry

This course ranges from the earth structure, the generation of earthquakes and seismic waves by faults to the seismic response of soils, foundations and structures as well as seismic risk. It is consequently aimed at undergraduates, graduates and professionals interested in engineering seismology, earthquake engineering or seismic risk. It investigates various technical fields: rock mechanics, soil dynamics, structural dynamics and dynamic soil-structure interaction.

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This course ranges from the earth structure, the generation of earthquakes and seismic waves by faults to the seismic response of soils, foundations and structures as well as seismic risk. It is consequently aimed at undergraduates, graduates and professionals interested in engineering seismology, earthquake engineering or seismic risk. It investigates various technical fields: rock mechanics, soil dynamics, structural dynamics and dynamic soil-structure interaction.

Various types of sessions are proposed: regular sessions describing a phenomenon or explaining its basic principles, lab sessions illustrating concepts through simple experiments (fault motion, liquefaction, resonant column tests, shaking table tests) and research topics focusing on advanced topics from various research fields (e.g. magnet-Earth, seismicity of Mars, seismic sensors, probabilistic approaches). Several quizzes, as well as 3 mini-projects, will allow you to check your knowledge and assess your understanding of the various topics.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Week 1 - Seismicity and faults
The first week allows to discover the Earth structure, the plate tectonics, the behaviour of faults in the crust and the radiation of seismic waves. The seismicity of the Earth is studied and that of Mars is shown as well! The control of faults and the magnetic properties of the Earth are finally explained.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Appeals to those with an interest in seismicity, faults, and earth structure, while introducing concepts in rock mechanics, soil dynamics, and dynamic soil-structure interaction
Involves various technical fields, including rock mechanics, soil dynamics, structural dynamics and dynamic soil-structure interaction, thus broadening the knowledge base of learners
Develops learners' understanding of earthquake engineering and seismic risk, addressing practical aspects such as vulnerability and damage assessment, as well as theoretical concepts in seismic response of soils and structures
Features regular sessions, lab sessions, and research topics, providing learners with a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to the subject
Provides an in-depth understanding of advanced topics such as magnet-Earth interactions, seismic sensors, and probabilistic seismic risk assessment

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive seismology and earthquake engineering overview

According to learners, 'Seismology to Earthquake Engineering' offers a fantastic overview and comprehensive coverage from basic seismicity to advanced earthquake engineering and seismic risk. Students consistently highlight the highly knowledgeable and brilliant instructor, and the incredibly insightful and engaging lab sessions, especially the shaking table tests, for making abstract concepts concrete. While mini-projects are seen as helpful for solidifying understanding, some found them demanding. The course assumes a certain level of prerequisite knowledge, with some advanced topics feeling a bit rushed or requiring external research, particularly for those without a strong prior background in dynamics. It's considered highly relevant for professionals.
Benefits learners with a strong prior background in dynamics.
"Some parts, especially the research topics, were a bit too advanced for me as an undergraduate."
"I struggled with the complex structures and nonlinearities section. I felt I needed more foundational knowledge to complete them effectively."
"I found that the course assumes a certain level of prerequisite knowledge, which is fair for this type of content."
Hands-on projects aid understanding but can be demanding.
"The mini-projects helped solidify my understanding."
"The mini-projects were challenging but fair."
"I found the mini-projects demanding, requiring significant external research."
Led by a highly knowledgeable and brilliant instructor.
"The professor was very knowledgeable..."
"The instructor's expertise shines through."
"The instructor is brilliant."
Practical labs make abstract concepts concrete and insightful.
"The labs were incredibly insightful, especially the shaking table tests."
"The lab sessions were highly engaging, making abstract concepts concrete."
"The practical lab sessions and research topics were a standout."
Provides a broad and deep understanding of the field.
"This course provided a fantastic overview of seismology and earthquake engineering."
"The content is comprehensive, bridging the gap between theoretical seismology and practical earthquake engineering effectively."
"The breadth and depth are impressive. From plate tectonics to vulnerability assessment, it covers everything."
Learners desire additional practical examples and case studies.
"I wish there were more practical examples or case studies linked to real-world engineering problems."
"I appreciated the balance of theory and practice, but more real-world examples would be beneficial."
"I found myself wishing for additional practical case studies to deepen my understanding."
Some sections are rushed, requiring external study for clarity.
"The course has a lot of good information, but it feels a bit rushed in places."
"Some explanations could be more thorough, especially in the later weeks on nonlinear analyses."
"I found myself needing to look up a lot of external resources to fully grasp some of the advanced topics."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Seismology to Earthquake Engineering with these activities:
Organize and supplement your course notes and materials
Stay organized and enhance your understanding by actively managing your course materials.
Browse courses on Note-Taking
Show steps
  • Regularly review and condense your lecture notes, highlighting important concepts.
  • Supplement your notes with additional materials from textbooks, research papers, or online resources.
  • Create a structured system for organizing your notes, such as using folders or digital note-taking apps.
Organize and review course materials
Strengthens understanding of the course material by organizing and reviewing notes, assignments, and other resources.
Show steps
  • Gather all of your lecture notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
  • Organize the materials by topic or week.
  • Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Review fundamental concepts of soil mechanics and earthquake engineering
Strengthen your foundation by revisiting key concepts that will be essential for success in this course.
Browse courses on Soil Mechanics
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or online resources on soil mechanics, focusing on topics such as soil properties, stress-strain behavior, and soil testing.
  • Revisit fundamental principles of earthquake engineering, including earthquake magnitude, ground motion, and structural response.
  • Consider taking practice tests or quizzes to assess your understanding of these concepts.
15 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 18 activities
Review Basic Engineering Concepts
Ensure a strong foundation in basic engineering concepts for successful engagement in this course.
Browse courses on Engineering
Show steps
  • Review textbooks or online resources on basic engineering principles
Analyze earthquakes and seismic waves using online tools
Reinforce your understanding of the various types and propagation of seismic waves through hands-on simulations.
Browse courses on Seismic Waves
Show steps
  • Explore online visualization tools for earthquake and seismic wave analysis.
  • Use these tools to analyze real-world earthquake data and study the characteristics of seismic waves.
  • Experiment with different parameters to observe their impact on seismic wave propagation and ground motion.
Practice solving earthquake engineering problems
Strengthens problem-solving skills and helps apply the concepts learned in the course to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on Foundations
Show steps
  • Find practice problems in textbooks, online resources, or ask your instructor.
  • Solve the problems step-by-step, showing all your work.
  • Check your answers with the solutions provided, or ask for help if needed.
Discuss Earthquake Engineering Case Studies
Engage in discussions with peers to gain diverse perspectives on earthquake engineering.
Browse courses on Earthquake Engineering
Show steps
  • Select a case study of an earthquake event
  • Prepare a presentation on the case study
  • Participate in group discussions
Simulate earthquake scenarios using specialized software
Gain hands-on experience in simulating earthquake scenarios and evaluating their potential impact on structures.
Show steps
  • Identify and access reputable software platforms for earthquake simulation.
  • Follow guided tutorials to learn the basics of the software's functionality.
  • Apply the software to simulate various earthquake scenarios and analyze the resulting structural responses.
  • Compare and interpret the simulation results to understand the influence of different factors on seismic risk.
Attend a webinar or conference related to earthquake engineering
Connect with professionals in the field and gain insights into the latest developments and best practices.
Browse courses on Earthquake Engineering
Show steps
  • Research upcoming webinars or conferences related to earthquake engineering.
  • Register and attend the event, actively participating in discussions and networking with attendees.
  • Follow up with new connections and explore opportunities for collaboration or further learning.
Analyze Seismic Data
Develop proficiency in seismic data processing and visualization techniques.
Browse courses on Data Exploration
Show steps
  • Identify a suitable seismic data set
  • Use software to plot and analyze the data
  • Interpret the results and draw conclusions
Solve Earthquake Engineering Problems
Enhance problem-solving skills in earthquake engineering by practicing real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on Earthquake Engineering
Show steps
  • Review the concepts of earthquake engineering
  • Solve practice problems on structural analysis
  • Analyze and interpret the results
Design and develop a seismic risk model
Designing and developing a seismic risk model will help you understand the concepts of seismic risk and how to quantify it.
Show steps
  • Identify the seismic hazards in your area.
  • Collect data on past earthquakes in your area.
  • Develop a model to predict the probability of future earthquakes.
  • Use your model to assess the seismic risk to your community.
  • Develop mitigation strategies to reduce the seismic risk to your community
Find and follow tutorials on earthquake engineering
Provides additional guidance and examples to supplement the course material, deepening understanding of specialised topics.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on topics you find challenging or want to learn more about.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step, taking notes and practicing the techniques shown.
  • Apply what you learn from the tutorials to your own projects or assignments.
Create a presentation on a specific topic in earthquake engineering
Allows students to delve deeper into a topic of interest and communicate their understanding effectively.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that you are interested in or that you find challenging.
  • Research the topic thoroughly, using textbooks, journal articles, and other reliable sources.
  • Create a presentation that is clear, concise, and engaging.
  • Practice your presentation several times before delivering it.
Develop an Earthquake Risk Assessment Model
Apply knowledge of earthquake engineering and risk assessment to create a valuable tool.
Browse courses on Quantitative Risk Analysis
Show steps
  • Gather data on earthquake hazards and vulnerabilities
  • Develop a methodology for assessing risk
  • Implement the model using appropriate software
  • Validate and present the model
Design an Earthquake-Resistant Structure
Integrate knowledge of earthquake engineering principles into a tangible design project.
Browse courses on Structural Engineering
Show steps
  • Determine the design criteria and constraints
  • Select appropriate materials and structural elements
  • Analyze and optimize the design
  • Create a detailed design document
  • Present the design to a panel of experts
Contribute to an Open-Source Earthquake Research Project
Gain hands-on experience in earthquake research and contribute to the scientific community.
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Identify a suitable open-source project
  • Contribute code, documentation, or data
  • Collaborate with other researchers
Start a personal project related to earthquake engineering
Gives students the opportunity to apply their learning to a real-world problem and develop valuable project management skills.
Browse courses on Engineering Design
Show steps
  • Identify a problem or opportunity related to earthquake engineering that you are passionate about.
  • Develop a plan for your project, including your goals, objectives, and timeline.
  • Start working on your project, breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks.
  • Regularly track your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Career center

Learners who complete Seismology to Earthquake Engineering will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Earthquake Engineer
An Earthquake Engineer designs and builds structures to withstand earthquakes. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of seismology and earthquake engineering, which are essential for the safe design of structures in earthquake-prone areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Earthquake Engineer
Engineering Geologist
An Engineering Geologist applies geological principles to the design and construction of structures. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of seismology and earthquake engineering, which are essential for the safe design of structures in earthquake-prone areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Engineering Geologist
Geophysicist
A Geophysicist studies the physical properties of the Earth. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of seismology, which are essential for understanding the Earth's structure and dynamics. The course covers topics such as seismic waves, earthquake source mechanisms, and seismic hazard assessment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geophysicist
Seismologist
A Seismologist studies earthquakes and seismic waves. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of seismology, which are essential for understanding the causes and effects of earthquakes. The course covers topics such as seismic waves, earthquake source mechanisms, and seismic hazard assessment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Seismologist
Structural Engineer
A Structural Engineer designs and builds structures to withstand various loads, including earthquakes. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering, which are essential for the safe design of structures in earthquake-prone areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Structural Engineer
Hazard Mitigation Specialist
A Hazard Mitigation Specialist develops and implements plans to reduce the risk of natural disasters, including earthquakes. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for developing effective hazard mitigation plans. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hazard Mitigation Specialist
Natural Disaster Relief Coordinator
A Natural Disaster Relief Coordinator coordinates relief efforts in the aftermath of natural disasters, including earthquakes. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for understanding the needs of earthquake victims and developing effective relief plans. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Natural Disaster Relief Coordinator
Risk Analyst
A Risk Analyst assesses the risk of natural disasters, including earthquakes. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for understanding the risk of earthquakes and developing effective risk management plans. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs and builds infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering, which are essential for the safe design of infrastructure in earthquake-prone areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer designs and implements solutions to environmental problems, including the effects of earthquakes. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for understanding the environmental impacts of earthquakes and developing effective mitigation strategies. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Engineer
Insurance Underwriter
An Insurance Underwriter assesses the risk of insurance claims, including claims for earthquake damage. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for understanding the risk of earthquake damage and setting appropriate insurance rates. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Insurance Underwriter
Real Estate Developer
A Real Estate Developer acquires and develops land for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for understanding the risk of earthquake damage to buildings and developing safe and sustainable real estate projects. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Developer
Transportation Engineer
A Transportation Engineer designs and builds transportation systems, including roads, bridges, and railroads. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering, which are essential for the safe design of transportation systems in earthquake-prone areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Transportation Engineer
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner plans and designs cities and towns. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering and seismic risk assessment, which are essential for understanding the risk of earthquake damage to buildings and developing safe and sustainable urban areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Water Resources Engineer
A Water Resources Engineer designs and builds water supply and wastewater systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of earthquake engineering, which are essential for the safe design of water systems in earthquake-prone areas. The course covers topics such as seismic hazards, ground motion, soil-structure interaction, and structural response to earthquakes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Water Resources Engineer

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Seismology to Earthquake Engineering.
Cover image
Introduction to Seismology
Save
This introductory textbook on seismology provides an overview of the field, covering topics such as the Earth's structure, earthquakes, seismic waves, and seismic hazard assessment. It useful reference for students and professionals in the field.
Introduction to Seismology
Paperback
$$$
Introduction to Seismology
Paperback
$$$
Introduction to Seismology
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Basic Structural Dynamics
Save
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of seismic design of structures, covering topics such as seismic codes, structural analysis, and seismic design details. It valuable reference for students and professionals in the field.
Basic Structural Dynamics
Paperback
Check
Basic Structural Dynamics
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Seismic Analysis of Structures
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of seismic analysis of structures. It covers both linear and nonlinear seismic analysis methods.
Seismic Analysis of Structures
Paperback
Check
Seismic Analysis of Structures
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Mechanics of Earthquakes and Faulting
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanics of earthquakes and faulting, covering topics such as earthquake source mechanics, fault mechanics, and earthquake prediction. It valuable reference for students and professionals in the field.
The Mechanics of Earthquakes and Faulting
Paperback
$$$
The Mechanics of Earthquakes and Faulting
Hardcover
$$$
The Mechanics of Earthquakes and Faulting
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Earth Anchors
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil dynamics and earthquake geotechnical engineering. It covers all aspects of soil dynamics including soil properties, wave propagation, and soil-structure interaction.
Earth Anchors
Paperback
Check
Earth Anchors
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Practical Civil Engineering
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of earthquake engineering for structural design. It covers all aspects of earthquake engineering including seismic hazard assessment, structural analysis, and detailing.
Practical Civil Engineering
Paperback
$$$
Practical Civil Engineering
Kindle Edition
$$$
Earthquake-resistant Design of Structures
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of earthquake resistant design of structures. It covers all aspects of earthquake resistant design including seismic hazard assessment, structural analysis, and detailing.
Earthquake-resistant Design of Structures
Paperback
Check
Earthquake-resistant Design of Structures
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for...
Save
Provides the seismic design criteria for buildings and other structures as set forth by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for...
Paperback
Check
Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for...
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
5 weeks of study, 3-5 hours/week
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
École Polytechnique
Instructors
Jean François Semblat
Benjamin RICHARD
Cédric Giry
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Appeals to those with an interest in seismicity, faults, and earth structure, while introducing concepts in rock mechanics, soil dynamics, and dynamic soil-structure interaction
Involves various technical fields, including rock mechanics, soil dynamics, structural dynamics and dynamic soil-structure interaction, thus broadening the knowledge base of learners
Develops learners' understanding of earthquake engineering and seismic risk, addressing practical aspects such as vulnerability and damage assessment, as well as theoretical concepts in seismic response of soils and structures
Features regular sessions, lab sessions, and research topics, providing learners with a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to the subject
Provides an in-depth understanding of advanced topics such as magnet-Earth interactions, seismic sensors, and probabilistic seismic risk assessment
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