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Mission and Objectives

Mission

The John Hopkins University Civil Engineering program educates intellectual leaders of the profession by instilling in them a fundamental understanding of the mathematical principles of physics and nature that underlie engineering science, a practical appreciation of the challenges of creative engineering design, and a sense of responsibility for professional service.

Educational Objectives

The program develops a sound understanding of the scientific principles upon which engineering research and practice are based. Different aspects of learning are integrated through classroom, laboratory instruction, and independent study experiences. Graduates of the program possess critical thinking skills, the ability for both independent and team problem-solving, and a sense of the excitement of engineering creativity and design. The program also develops communication skills necessary for its graduates to function in teams and to deal with other professions in public and private arenas. Its progressive education furthers student understanding of the context in which engineering is practiced in modern society. This understanding is reinforced further by internships, study abroad programs, cooperative learning experiences, and a capstone design experience, all of which involve professional engineers in undergraduate learning. Thus, the program educates leaders for tomorrow, providing the tools and perspectives for a lifetime of learning, opportunities, and professional advancement.

Research Objective

Research is essential for expanding the body of engineering knowledge needed for continuous improvement of professional practice to meet new challenges. The civil engineering program integrates new concepts from independent research into classroom and laboratory study. The program strives to develop an enthusiasm on the part of the student for independent creative activities leading to new knowledge that addresses problems of national importance. Independent research provides students with an opportunity to develop their talents and skills for problem formulation and solution under the guidance of a faculty mentor, synthesizing different fields of knowledge to formulate solutions to relevant technical problems using modern engineering tools.

Instilling Importance of Professional Service

Students graduate from the program with a sense of the responsibility that the civil engineering profession accepts for applying the principles of engineering sciences for the betterment of the built environment and society. Its graduates have an appreciation of professional ethics and the value of service to their profession and society through participation in technical activities, and in community, state and national organizations.

 

 

DNS and LES of Turbulent Flows over Wavy Boundaries

Interaction of turbulence with wavy surfaces is important to many applications including drag reduction using fish-like waving motions, sediment transport, and winds over ocean waves.  Prof. Shen’s group uses numerical simulations to study the detailed flow structure and the underlying mechanism.

[faculty page]