Topic outline

  • Anatomy of a Steel Girder Bridge System

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides an in-depth exploration of the structural, mechanical, and material components that define steel girder bridge systems, a common choice for medium- to long-span bridges in highway and railway infrastructure. 

    Emphasizing structural engineering principles, this course examines the individual and interconnected roles of girders, bearings, decks, diaphragms, bracing, connections, and support systems. It also addresses fabrication and erection considerations, corrosion protection methods, and maintenance requirements essential to the long-term functionality of steel girder bridges.

    Topics:

    Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the primary structural components of a steel girder bridge system and their functions
    • Analyze the roles of superstructure and substructure elements, including connection and bearing systems
    • Identify design considerations related to load transfer, fabrication, erection, and inspection
    • Examine corrosion protection techniques and long-term maintenance strategies
    • Interpret the influence of design codes, material specifications, and construction practices on bridge system performance

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil engineers, structural engineers, bridge design specialists, transportation infrastructure professionals, and any other licensed engineers engaged in the design, inspection, rehabilitation, or construction of bridge systems. It qualifies for continuing education credit across multiple engineering disciplines. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1