Basic Structural Design
Structural analysis and design for buildings, bridges, and other structures form the core of this MIT OpenCourseWare course. It traces the historical development of structural form, from Gothic cathedrals to long span suspension bridges, and has students investigate how structural systems and elements behave through design exercises, case studies, and load testing of physical models. Students design structures using timber, masonry, steel, and concrete, building an appreciation for structural design's role today, including the environmental impact of large scale construction. Materials include course readings, design assignments, and case study documentation as published through MIT OpenCourseWare. No enrollment or certificate is offered, but the full curriculum is free to access and follow at your own pace.