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Course syllabus - Introduction to building engineering

Scope

7.5 credits

Course code

BTA223

Valid from

Autumn semester 2026

Education level

First cycle

Progressive Specialisation

G2F (First cycle, has at least 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements)

Main area(s)

Building Engineering

Organisation

Department of Engineering Sciences

Revised

2025-11-03

Literature lists

Course literature is preliminary up to 8 weeks before course start. Course literature can be valid over several semesters.

Objectives

This course aims to provide students from non-building engineering backgrounds (such as energy or environmental engineering) with a fundamental understanding of building structures, materials, and construction processes. It serves as an introductory course to prepare students for further studies in building engineering

Learning outcomes

  1. Understand basic concepts and terminology in building engineering.
  2. Describe the structural components of buildings and their functions.
  3. Identify common building materials and their properties.
  4. Explain the different phases of the construction process, from planning to completion.
  5. Explain fundamental structural loads and their effects on buildings.
  6. Interpret construction drawings and technical documents.

Course content

The course provides an introduction to building engineering, covering fundamental principles, historical development, and current trends. It explores building structures and components, including foundations, walls, floors, roofs, and load-bearing systems, along with key aspects of construction materials such as properties, applications, and sustainability.

Additionally, the course introduces planning and project management in construction, as well as basic structural analysis, including forces, loads, and building behavior. Technical drawings and documentation, including construction plans and 2D/3D modeling, are also covered.

Specific requirements

At least 150 higher education credits, of which at least 60 higher education credits in building technology, structural engineering, civil engineering, energy engineering or equivalent.

Examination

Assignment (INL1), 1.5 credit, grade Pass (G) or Fail (U). Learning outcome: 1-4.
Exam (TEN1), 6 credit, grades Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E), Insufficient (F). Learning outcome: 1-6.

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding disability study support, can request adaptions for the examination. It is the examiner who takes decisions on any adaptions, based on the certificate and other conditions.

Grade

AF-skala

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

Overlap with BTA144 and BTA146.