1. Hydraulic and Ocean Engineering
The rapid development of human civilization and industries has put increasing demand on both our water supply and quality of water. Water resources engineering achieves the suitable distribution and use of water resources through an understanding of the natural environment, systematic analysis and planning, and the use of modern engineering technology. The planning and construction of dams, restoration of rivers, management and allocation of surface and groundwater, and prevention of water pollution are dependent upon knowledge in this field. In addition, Taiwan is surrounded on all sides by water, linking us inseparably with it both in terms of the natural environment and natural resources. Thus, ocean and coastal related construction and research, such as harbor planning, ocean structure, and coast erosion are essential.
2. The Importance of Hydraulic and Ocean Engineering
Economic development and higher living standards have led to rising water demands and related problems, such as the pollution of rivers, land subsidence due to the over-pumping of groundwater, seawater intrusion, flooding and drainage problems from typhoons or heavy rains, and riverbed erosion. The development of water conservancy project is crucial in Taiwan; although with plentiful rainfall, where rapid streams and uneven rain distribution pose a challenge to the maintenance of water resources.. The erection of dams seems to be an effective solution, since Taiwan��s many dams not only serve as water reservoirs, but also generate power. However, the buildup of sediment has greatly reduced these dams�� ability to function. Therefore, the study of dam maintenance and pollution prevention is a most important task.
3.Hydraulic and Ocean Engineering at NCTU Civil Engineering
In order to provide students with a solid foundation in hydraulic and ocean engineering, the course offerings at National Chiao Tung University place equal emphasis on theory and practice. Students may choose courses based on individual interest or specialty. Basic courses include Fluid Mechanics, Hydrology, Hydraulic Engineering, Groundwater Hydrology, Engineering Statistics, Engineering Economics, and Ocean Engineering. Applied courses include Open Channel Hydraulics, Principles of Environmental Dispersion, Water Resources System Planning, Mechanics of Sediment Transport, Groundwater Management and Pollution Remediation, Intermediate Fluid Mechanics, Water Wave Theory, Coastal Process, Ocean Engineering, and Ocean Environment.
4. Future Prospects
As previously mentioned, the surrounding waters and coastline are Taiwan��s greatest resource. Not only should they be protected and kept clean, it is even more important to understand how they can be used to our economic advantage.
Traditionally, research in hydraulic or ocean engineering is focused on fluid mechanics and hydrology, and less on issues of pollution, environment, and landscape. However, with increased awareness in environmental conservation, pollution related topics such as nonpoint source pollution control, groundwater pollution control, and ocean environmental pollution will become more important in future research. With the application of new technological advances such as remote sensing and geographic information systems in research methods, safety and natural considerations will be the emphasis for future projects, incorporating the construction process with the natural environment.