This course deals with rocks, particularly on how these geological materials react to both geological and construction induced stresses. Construction of structures in or on rock mass (e.g. foundation, slope, tunnel & cavern) depends greatly on the rock mass properties and the interaction between the rock mass and the engineered structures. The term 'rock mechanics' refers to the basic science of mechanics applied to rocks, while the term 'rock engineering' refers to any engineering activities involving rocks. Basic knowledge in geology (particularly rock types, discontinuities in rock and structural geology) is essential for this course.