Master of Science in Geotechnical Engineering

Postgraduate

Overview Modules Staff profiles

Program's Overview

The Master of Science in Geotechnical Engineering at INES-Ruhengeri is designed to produce experts equipped with the knowledge and skills to investigate, analyze, design, and manage geotechnical aspects of civil engineering projects. As infrastructure demands increase across Africa, there is a growing need for professionals who can ensure stability, safety, and sustainability of structures by mastering the behavior of soils and rocks, and managing complex underground construction challenges.

This program emphasizes both advanced theory and hands-on practice, with a strong integration of field-based investigations, lab testing, computer modeling, and industrial-based research. It builds on foundational civil engineering principles while focusing deeply on specialized areas such as slope stability, rock mechanics, earthworks, and underground structures.

Program Structure

The Master of Science in Geotechnical Engineering is a two-year postgraduate program structured across four semesters. During the first three semesters, students undertake intensive coursework covering core areas such as engineering mathematics, computer applications, geotechnical investigations, and structural design principles. The final semester is fully dedicated to a Master’s Thesis, focused on industrial-based research.

In Semester 1, students build a solid foundation through modules like Advanced Computer Programming Applied to Civil Structures, Advanced Mathematical Analysis for Engineering, and Applied Statistics and Research Methodology. Semester 2 shifts focus to the investigation of soil and rock behavior, with modules including Advanced Ground Investigations, Rock Mechanics, and Engineering Earthworks. In Semester 3, learners dive into geotechnical design and application through Advanced Foundation Engineering, Slope Stability and Retaining Structures, and Underground Construction. Finally, Semester 4 centers on a comprehensive Master’s Thesis worth 60 credits, where students apply research methods to solve real-world geotechnical challenges.

Entry Requirements

Combinations

The Master of Science in Geotechnical Engineering at INES-Ruhengeri is tailored for professionals and recent graduates who aspire to specialize in the field of geotechnics and underground infrastructure. This program is ideal for individuals with a strong foundation in civil engineering and a keen interest in soil mechanics, foundation design, and subsurface investigations.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for admission, applicants must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in one of the following disciplines:

Civil Engineering – with background in construction materials, structural mechanics, and engineering analysis.

Structural Engineering – especially those with exposure to soil-structure interaction and design of foundations.

Construction Engineering – candidates familiar with on-site construction practices and geotechnical implications.

Geotechnical Engineering – those seeking to deepen their expertise and conduct research in advanced topics like slope stability, foundation systems, and underground construction.

???? Minimum Academic Qualification:

Applicants must have achieved at least a Second Class Upper Division (or its equivalent) in their undergraduate studies.

Candidates with foreign qualifications must provide equivalency approval from the Higher Education Council (HEC) Rwanda to validate their academic background.

This program welcomes both local and international students who are ready to contribute to the development of resilient infrastructure in Rwanda and across the region.

Required documents

Exit and Career Profile

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will possess the skills and expertise to:

✅ Conduct site investigation and geotechnical testing

✅ Analyze soil-structure interactions and rock behavior

✅ Design safe and sustainable foundations and retaining systems

✅ Manage large-scale earthworks and underground construction

✅ Interpret complex data and produce actionable engineering solutions

✅ Lead multidisciplinary teams in construction and infrastructure projects

Graduates will be well-prepared for roles such as:

Geotechnical Engineer

Foundation Design Engineer

Tunnel & Underground Construction Engineer

Infrastructure Risk Analyst

Consultant in Slope Stability and Site Investigations

Researcher or Academic in Geotechnical Sciences

Contacts of the Head of Department

Names: Dr. Eng. NYIRAJANA Jacqueline

E-mail: jnyirajana@ines.ac.rw

Tel: +250 782272177

Offered Modules

Year 1

N^o	Module Title	N^o of credits	Semester
1	Advanced Computer Programming Applied to Civil Structures	20	1
2	Advanced Mathematical Analysis for Engineering	20
3	Applied Statistics and Research Methodology	20
1	Advanced Ground Investigations	20	2
2	Rock Mechanics	20
3	Engineering Earthworks	20