University Diploma in Asphalt and Pavement Studies

• Asphalt Technology - 5ZZBBW - 20 credits
• Pavement Management & Design - 5ZZBBY - 20 credits
• Pavement Solutions - 5ZZBBZ - 20 credits

Optional additional modules:

• Contracts Management - 5ZZBBX - 20 credits
• Business Management - 5ZZBCF - 20 credits

To achieve the qualification you will complete these three modules:

Pavement Management and Design (20 credits)

This module establishes the basis for all engineering processes related to the road structure and its surface, including the essential criterion for the safe use of the pavement. You'll develop an understanding of the way in which pavements work to protect the underlying soil, by working through the fundamental analytical principles of pavement design leading up to the current HA design method. You'll also cover pavement assessment, which is required to ensure that the road surface is both safe and strong enough to carry the ever increasing traffic loading, through to the design of treatments to maintain the structure. This includes overlay design, and assessment of skid resistance and entails learning about the principles of skid resistance and road drainage. You will develop your knowledge of the 'Asset Management' approach to maintaining highways, and prioritisation of maintenance treatments.

Asphalt Technology (20 credits)

You'll focus on developing your knowledge of the technology, standards, and other requirements that apply to bituminous mixtures. In addition to this you'll develop knowledge of the technology and principles of designing the mixtures as well as the specific processes and knowledge required to produce, transport and place the mixtures.

Pavement Solutions (20 credits) The module develops an understanding of the fundamental properties of asphalt mixtures through a discussion of their function in road pavements. The production of bitumen and special binders, such as emulsions and polymer modified binders is described and their fundamental properties are introduced. The achievement of the fundamental requirements of an asphalt mix, durability, resistance to cracking and resistance to deformation will be described. The major specialist treatments for the surface of roads, and there reinforcement, will be discussed to enable rational decisions to be made concerning their suitability for specific project. Sustainability will also be considered through recycling and consideration of 'alternatives aggregates'. Furthermore, cement and unbound mixtures for roads and their place and function in asphalt pavements are introduced. The specialist topics of mastic asphalt and surface dressing are also covered in the module.

The following modules are optional and can be added to your studies for an additional fee:

Contracts Management (20 credits)

Contracts are fundamental to commercial activity. The asphalt industry is a part of the construction industry which has developed its own forms of contract designed to service the type of exchange with which it is engaged. This module provides you with an appropriate background to this topic so that you understand the impact and consequences of 'The Contract' on your daily activities. You'll also cover the techniques of estimation and organisation which underpin the procurement of work by a contractor. The law, relevant to the establishment of, operation and maintenance of roads and as it relates to statutory undertakers is covered as are the specific construction design and management safety regulations.

Business Management (20 credits)

You'll cover the business and financial knowledge and skills that are required to effectively manage a mineral extraction site, a road construction site or related manufacturing facility. You'll cover general management topics, administration and relevant legal implications. You'll also recognise the requirement for the highest standards in respect of health, safety and environmental management.