Fundamentals of Timber Construction

Each module consists of three stages:

1. Online stage: At this stage, participants learn theoretical knowledge in courses that are either presented or unlocked on a weekly basis. The courses make use of teaching aids such as learning videos, accompanying online material and peer interactions. Optional self-assessments allow participants to check and review the material learned. The online learning platform also features a forum in which learners can contact and exchange ideas with lecturers or with each other. This self-learning phase is focused on independent study of the basic literature. Participants are expected to work out basics, and to prepare for or follow up on individual or group work in the in-person stage.
2. In-person stage: The in-person stage is conducted as a mixture of teacher-centred lectures and peer discussions, excursions and seminars. A particular focus is on joint discussions and interdisciplinary work (in plenary, in groups). Theoretical information is illustrated and consolidated with the aid of examples, and tasks are completed in the form of individual or group work.
3. Transfer stage: A transfer or design project related to real-life work rounds off the didactic concept of the university course. These projects are developed in interdisciplinary groups depending on the constellation of course participants.

• Module Timber as Building Material: DI Dr.techn. Georg Flatscher, BSc.
• Module Timber Construction Methods and Load-Bearing Systems: FH-Prof. DI Dr. Markus Wallner-Novak and HBM DI Alan Hofmann
• Module Timber Structures: Architect DI Stefan Nussmüller

• comprehensive knowledge of timber as a resource and materials as well as current developments and possible areas of application.
• knowledge of timber construction methods and associated load-bearing systems along with the most important criteria for resource-optimised, modern timber construction with regard to structural design and tectonics.
• the ability to develop resilient structures for multi-storey timber buildings and an understanding of serial construction methods and prefabrication.
• expertise in ecological and sustainable construction with timber and the ability to set an environmentally conscious course in construction projects.
• strong problem-solving skills to develop complex timber construction solutions.

The skills acquired in the university course allow graduates to work on or develop timber construction projects as specialists and managers in civil engineering firms (architecture, civil engineering) or to work in timber construction companies.

Depending on the graduate’s specific professional background, the following fields of work are suitable: 

• Timber construction consultant, project manager, e.g. in public institutions
• Demanding (management) functions in timber processing companies

With a professional background in architecture:

• Timber construction architect

With a professional background in civil engineering:

• Timber construction structural engineer

With a professional background in architecture or civil engineering:

• Timber construction building designer
• Timber construction engineer

Institute of Architecture Technology, Chair of Timber Construction at TU Graz

Tom Kaden
Dipl.-Des. BDA Univ.-Prof.

Bettina Gossak-Kowalski
Dipl. Ing.
gossak-kowalskinoSpam@tugraz.at