First Semester (January 2027 – July 2027) Â | Â Second Semester (September 2027 – February 2028)
Shared with: PhD Programme 
| MSc Programme
First Semester – 27 ECTS (CFU)
1. Dynamic Analysis of Structures – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer: Prof. G.J. O’Reilly
The course introduces the basic principles of structural dynamics, focusing on how structures respond to dynamic and seismic loading, and providing a solid foundation for understanding the many challenges of earthquake engineering.
2. Fundamentals of Probability Theory – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer: Prof. I. Iervolino
The course aims at providing the basics of probability theory and calculus for the quantitative characterization of uncertainty and its mathematical treatment in engineering problems. More specifically, the course intends to give students the theoretical grounds for the following seismic hazard and risk assessment classes.
3. Seismic Hazard and Engineering Seismology – 6 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer: Dr. M. Pagani
The course provides essential knowledge in applied seismology for engineering and geophysical practice. It covers intensity measures, seismic hazard assessment, and ground motion prediction, along with fundamentals of theoretical seismology such as wave propagation and source modelling.
4. Nonlinear Response Analysis – 6 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturers: Prof. R. Pinho & Dr. G. Gabbianelli
The course provides an in-depth exploration of advanced nonlinear analysis and computational modelling techniques for structures subjected to strong earthquake ground motion. The course emphasises both theoretical understanding and practical implementation using state-of-the-art software tools.
5. Fundamentals of Seismic Design – 6 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturers: Prof. R. Monteiro & Dr. G. Mucedero
The course focuses on the seismic design of reinforced concrete structures, comparing force-based and displacement-based design philosophies. Topics include Eurocode 8 provisions, capacity design, detailing, non-linear modelling, and practical assignments related to structural design and analysis.
6. Advanced Strategies for Seismic Protection of Structures – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer: Prof. R. Pinho
The course provides knowledge on seismic assessment and retrofitting of buildings and infrastructure within a performance-based framework. It covers research on seismic strengthening through experimental, numerical, and analytical studies, post-earthquake evidence, and compares traditional and innovative strengthening techniques, including active control systems.
7. Non-Structural Elements in Earthquake Engineering – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturers: Dr. G. Gabbianelli & Dr. P. Morandi
The course introduces seismic analysis and design of non-structural elements, covering their classification, earthquake behaviour, and main design methods according to current regulations. It provides tools for analysis, design, and seismic qualification to improve resilience and building safety.
Second Semester – 33 ECTS (CFU)
8. Advanced Seismic Hazard Analysis – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer:Â Prof. B. Bradley
The course explores advanced methodologies for seismic hazard assessment, focusing on uncertainty quantification and complex seismic scenarios for engineering applications. Topics include site-specific hazard analysis, site effects, ground motion selection and simulation, physics-based and data-driven approaches, and computational tools for ground motion prediction.
9. Risk Assessment and Loss Estimation – 6 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturers: Prof. P. Bazzurro & Prof. D. Vamvatsikos
The course introduces risk assessment and loss estimation for assets exposed to earthquakes and tropical cyclones. It covers hazard modelling, seismic risk for individual buildings and portfolios, and practical case studies, with applications in insurance and reinsurance sectors.
10. GEM Models, OpenQuake Engine and Tools Training – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturers: Dr. H. Crowley & Prof. V. Silva
The course introduces the key concepts of seismic risk assessment and provides hands-on experience with the OpenQuake open-source engine. Through practical sessions, students will perform hazard and risk analyses, including scenario simulations and portfolio loss estimations.
11. Seismic Assessment of Masonry Structures – 3 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer: Prof. F. Graziotti
The course aims to provide an introduction to materials, construction practices, structural behaviour, analysis methods and the main regulatory requirements for the seismic assessment and adaptation/improvement of existing masonry buildings.
12. Bridge Structures – 6 ECTS (CFU)
Lecturer: Prof. G.M. Calvi
The course aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the bridge design process, spanning from conceptual design to the detailed design of individual components. The course is also designed to help students understand the transmission mechanisms of applied loads, such as heavy traffic loads, impacts, horizontal braking/centrifugal forces, wind, and seismic loads on bridges.
• Internship in an affiliated institution – 6 ECTS (CFU)
• Final exam – 3 ECTS (CFU)