Course Number and Title:
CET 135 Engineering Materials and Construction Methods
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: CET 100 and (MAT 183 or concurrent or higher).
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
2 lecture hours/week
2 lab hours/week
0 offsite lab hours
Course Description
This course introduces fundamental materials, methods, and practices used in civil and environmental engineering construction. Students explore the properties, behavior, and testing of soil, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel, and learn their applications in site development and infrastructure projects. The course also covers construction phases, equipment, techniques, cost estimation, sustainable construction practices, sediment and erosion control, and professional safety standards. Laboratory exercises and hands-on testing provide practical experience, reinforcing the relationship between material performance, construction methods, and real-world engineering applications. Students will have the opportunity to earn the Contractor Training Program certification offered through the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).
Disclaimer
Students will take the Contractor Training Program certification offered through DNREC and if successful will earn certification.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Explain the phases and roles in the construction process. (CCC 1, 2, 5; PGC 1, 5, 7)
- Describe the properties and behaviors of common construction materials. (CCC 1, 2, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5, 7)
- Apply knowledge of soil and aggregate properties to site engineering and construction decisions. (CCC 1, 2, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5, 7)
- Describe the types of below-grade construction and foundation drainage systems. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 3, 7)
- Describe the properties and applications of bituminous asphalt and pavement materials. (CCC 1, 2, 6; PGC 1, 3, 7)
- Identify concrete types, properties, and testing methods. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 7)
- Discuss the properties and uses of steel in civil and environmental applications. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 7)
- Interpret common construction documents used in civil and environmental engineering. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 3, 7)
- Explain construction methods, techniques, and equipment used in civil and environmental engineering. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 3, 7)
- Discuss sustainable construction practices, including sediment and erosion control. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 4, 5, 6, 7)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Explain the phases and roles in the construction process.
- Identify and describe the phases of construction.
- Describe the roles and responsibilities of professionals and regulatory agencies in the construction process.
- Identify applicable building, municipal, and development codes related to site engineering and construction.
- Describe the properties and behaviors of common construction materials.
- Identify common construction materials and describe their general applications in civil and environmental applications.
- Recognize the various types of loads (stress and strain) that can affect structures.
- Describe the structural properties of materials as they relate to engineering design and construction.
- Apply knowledge of soil and aggregate properties to site engineering and construction decisions.
- Classify soil and aggregate types.
- Describe how soil and aggregate properties influence site feasibility, bearing capacity, and construction methods.
- Identify common site investigation techniques used to assess subsurface conditions.
- Estimate basic earthwork volumes and material needs based on soil characteristics.
- Describe the types of below-grade construction and foundation drainage systems.
- Identify types of building foundation systems.
- Explain the function of footings, foundation walls, piles, slabs, and reinforcement.
- Explain damp proofing and dewatering processes.
- Identify subgrade drainage systems.
- Describe the properties and applications of bituminous asphalt and pavement materials.
- Identify uses and types of asphalt materials.
- Explain classification systems and construction processes.
- Estimate quantities and costs for asphalt applications.
- Identify concrete types, properties, and testing methods.
- List and describe types of concrete and their construction applications.
- Describe the manufacturing process of cement.
- Identify the chemical and physical composition of Portland cement.
- Estimate concrete mix designs using provided criteria.
- Perform standard industry tests for concrete.
- Discuss the properties and uses of steel in civil and environmental applications.
- Describe steel production methods.
- Identify common structural steel shapes, dimensions, and weights.
- Discuss metal pipes used in drainage and utility systems.
- Explain physical properties and fastening methods for steel.
- Interpret common construction documents used in civil and environmental engineering.
- Identify symbols, legends, and notation commonly used in civil and environmental construction documents.
- Recognize and interpret features of site plans, including grading, utilities, and topography.
- Identify property lines, easements, and legal descriptions.
- Locate footings, foundation walls, and structural components on drawings.
- Read construction specifications, including material requirements and performance standards.
- Explain construction methods, techniques, and equipment used in civil and environmental engineering.
- Describe common construction equipment and explain their basic uses and capabilities.
- Identify and describe grading, compaction, utility installation, and paving methods used in site development.
- Discuss sustainable construction practices, including sediment and erosion control.
- Define sustainability in site engineering and construction.
- Identify resource efficiency, water conservation, and material recycling principles.
- Identify green building materials and certification programs.
- Describe erosion and sediment control strategies used on construction sites and explain how hydrology and drainage principles inform risk identification.
- Review Delaware’s Sediment and Stormwater Program, including key regulations and available certifications.
- Describe best management practices for stormwater management and explain their role in sustainable site design.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Percentage of final grade |
Summative Assessments |
3-4 Exams - (Equally weighted) | 30% |
Formative Assessments |
Labs - (Equally weighted) | 30% |
The course will contain various formative assessments including but not limited to: (all equally weighted) | 40% |
TOTAL | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
CET/EET
1. Apply technical knowledge, skills, and engineering principles in various civil and environmental engineering applications.
2. Conduct field and laboratory testing using industry-standard procedures.
3. Select and apply appropriate materials, technologies, and best practices for civil and environmental engineering projects.
4. Utilize engineering software, visual communication tools, and technical documentation to support diverse civil and environmental engineering activities.
5. Interpret and apply relevant industry regulations and standards to civil and environmental engineering applications.
6. Pursue industry-recognized certifications related to civil and environmental engineering technology.
7. Demonstrate professionalism and ethical responsibility while prioritizing safety, quality, timeliness, and continuous improvement in civil and environmental engineering practices.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.