Module manager: Jared West
Email: l.j.west@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as an Elective
In this module students learn the basics of hydrogeology including the fundamental physics of flow and contaminant transport through porous media, aquifer hydraulic properties and how to measure them, aquifer structure and heterogeneity, issues of groundwater control in construction, and contaminated land and groundwater investigation, risk assessment and remediation.
The module aims to provide a professional-level training in hydrogeological and contaminant processes in the context of Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Engineering, including underlying fundamental physical and chemical principles. The first part aims at providing the background, concepts and workflows for assessing impacts of groundwater in construction projects and in managing geotechnical hazards. The second part focusses on providing those needed for assessing contaminated land impacts on various receptors such as groundwater, humans and ecosystems, and associated remediation strategies.
Knowledge Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1) Describing how groundwater and contaminated land can be managed using scientific principles;
2) Analysing real data from groundwater systems ;
3) Synthesising of data from a range of sources to quantitatively assess hazards from contaminated land/groundwater;
4) Demonstrating critical evaluation of current practice in groundwater control and contaminated land and groundwater assessment.
Skills learning outcomes
SLO1. Specify ground investigations to obtain geotechnical and hydrogeological data via in situ techniques, laboratory tests and instrumentation and monitoring;
SLO2 Interpret the ground investigation data and develop a ground model including the identification of groundwater and contaminated land risks to the project as appropriate;
SLO3 Analyse, and interpret data using numerical, analytical and critical analysis techniques to develop an engineering understanding of the ground and how this will impact upon future design solutions;
SLO4 Use risk management techniques and manage risks associated with geotechnical engineering activities.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 9 | 3 | 27 |
| Practicals | 2 | 7.5 | 15 |
| Private study hours | 108 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 42 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Formative assessments associated with the lectures; they are submitted to the course tutor who provides individual (written) and generic (verbal) feedback the following week. These exercises include development of conceptual model diagrams, a risk ranking table for contaminated site and a site investigation design diagram/plan for contaminated site.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Coursework | 60 |
| Assignment | Coursework | 40 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team