This course will consist of a research investigation thesis project (no course content teaching). Students will be expected to develop a project topic, investigation objectives and project plan and submit it for approval before proceeding. The project must be focused on a topic which is predominantly of a geotechnical nature within a mining context. It must include a significant component of investigation and analysis. Students are expected to include a relevant literature review; research plan; and report on findings, conclusions and recommendations. The project must be written in the form of a professional thesis report, in line with the School’s published report writing guidelines. Students must also prepare a presentation on their project. Assessment will include both the written report and the presentation which may be required to be presented in a face to face or distance mode.