Learn how to model using HEC-RAS, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ powerful software for modeling river hydraulics and floodplain systems. Whether you’re completely new to hydraulic modeling or you’re looking to strengthen and update your skills, this course provides a step-by-step approach to building and analyzing models that simulate real-world conditions. You’ll start with the basics of 1D steady flow modeling, learning how to define geometry, assign Manning’s n values, apply boundary conditions, and compute water surface profiles.
As you progress, you’ll explore unsteady flow modeling, including the setup of hydrographs, time step management, storage areas, and flow routing. The course then introduces 2D modeling, where you’ll create 2D flow areas, refine computational meshes, define internal boundaries, and simulate overland flow using terrain data. You’ll also learn how to integrate 1D and 2D domains for more complex systems. Advanced topics include modeling bridges, culverts, weirs, and lateral structures, as well as configuring sediment transport simulations using gradation data and transport functions.
Throughout the course, you’ll gain hands-on experience with RAS Mapper, where you’ll learn to visualize inundation extents, flood depths, velocities, and water surface profiles. Each lesson is focused, practical, and aligned with tasks hydraulic modelers encounter in consulting, public agency work, and research. No prior experience with HEC-RAS is required, though a basic understanding of open channel hydraulics will be helpful.
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to independently build, run, and troubleshoot both 1D and 2D HEC-RAS models, analyze hydraulic behavior, and apply your skills to support a wide range of water resources and flood risk management projects.
- This course is ideal for beginners new to hydraulic modeling, professionals looking to expand their skills in HEC-RAS, and experienced users seeking a practical refresher on both 1D and 2D modeling workflows. Whether you’re an engineer, planner, or floodplain manager, you’ll find valuable tools and techniques to apply in real-world projects.
