Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027
Module ENGI47415: Hydrology and Water Resources
Department: Engineering
ENGI47415: Hydrology and Water Resources
| Type | Tied | Level | 4 | Credits | 15 | Availability | Available in 2026/2027 | Module Cap |
|---|
| Tied to | H1KB09 |
|---|
Prerequisites
- None
Corequisites
- None
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None
Aims
- This module is designed solely for students studying Department of Engineering degree programmes.
- To provide an overview and describe the characteristics of hydrological systems.
- To enable students to apply mathematical and fluid mechanics principles to solve a range of hydrological problems.
Content
- Hydrological measurements
- Groundwater flow modelling
- Evaporation modelling
- Soil water modelling
- Rainfall-runoff modelling
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- How to acquire measurements of river flows, groundwater levels, precipitation and evaporation.
- How to apply fluid mechanics principles to determine relevant equations for describing flow in porous media.
- How to apply thermodynamic principles to estimate evaporation from meteorological data.
- How to apply mass conservation principles to derive fluid flow models for hydrological systems.
- AHEP4 Learning Outcomes: In order to satisfy Professional Engineering Institution (PEI) accreditation requirements the following Accreditation of Higher Education Programmes (AHEP4) Learning Outcomes are assessed within this module:
- M1. Apply a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering principles to the solution of complex problems. Much of the knowledge will be at the forefront of the particular subject of study and informed by a critical awareness of new developments and the wider context of engineering (exam assessed).
Subject-specific Skills:
- Will be able to derive and apply mathematical models to describe various aspects of hydrological systems.
- Will be able to apply mathematical models to solve hydrology related engineering problems.
Key Skills:
- Capacity for independent self-learning within the bounds of professional practice.
- Specialised numerical skills appropriate to an engineer.
- Mathematics relevant to the application of advanced engineering concepts.
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- The module content is delivered through lectures and reinforced by Formative Problem Sheets and Problem Classes, equipping students with the required problem-solving capability.
- Throughout the academic year, students will be required to submit Formative Problem Sheets via the virtual learning environment to monitor and consolidate their understanding as the course progresses.
- Students will attend one Discussion Class in the Michaelmas term and a second in the Epiphany term. These sessions provide an opportunity to consolidate material covered in lectures and to receive guidance and support from a demonstrator.
- At the start of the academic year, students will complete a benchmark test to assess prior knowledge and highlight areas needing further consolidation. This diagnostic activity directs students towards appropriate revision resources and independent study.
- A mock examination will be held in the Epiphany term to provide a formative, exam‑style experience. Students may then discuss their performance informally with academic staff, either during Office Hours or an Academic Adviser session, and receive targeted feedback ahead of the summative assessment.
- A further Revision Class will be held ahead of the main examination period to support students in preparing for their final assessments.
- Written timed examinations are appropriate because of the wide range of analytical, in-depth material covered in this module and allow students to demonstrate the ability to solve advanced problems independently.
- Students are encouraged to engage with staff Office Hours for one‑to‑one or small‑group discussion of any aspect of the module. These sessions are offered weekly during teaching, timings are published on Learn Ultra.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | Attendance Monitored |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 20 | Typically 1 per week | 1 hour | 20 | |
| Revision Classes | 3 | Throughout the academic year | 2 | Yes ■ | |
| Discussion Classes | 2 | Throughout first two terms | 3 hours (includes 1 hour preparation to be completed before attending the session) | 6 | Yes ■ |
| Preparation and Reading | 122 | ||||
| Total | 150 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Examination | Component Weighting: 100% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| On Campus Written Examination | 2 hours | 100% | |
Formative Assessment:
Formative assessment is provided by means of formative problem sheets, benchmark test and mock examinations.
■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.