About This Course
Structural engineering practice has been transformed by the adoption of powerful analysis and design software that allows engineers to model complex structures, run rigorous analyses, and produce code-compliant designs with greater speed and accuracy than ever before. ETABS, developed by Computers and Structures Inc. (CSI), is the industry standard for multi-storey building analysis and design, while ProtaStructure offers an integrated BIM-ready environment that streamlines reinforced concrete detailing, post-processing, and drawing production. Together, these two platforms cover the full spectrum of structural design workflows demanded by modern engineering offices.
This ten-day programme by TrainingComplex is designed for practising structural engineers, civil engineers, and design professionals who want to develop or consolidate advanced competency in both platforms. The curriculum progresses logically from foundational modelling concepts through to advanced analysis techniques, seismic design, and automated drawing production. Each day combines structured instruction with guided software exercises on realistic building projects, so participants leave with both conceptual understanding and the muscle memory needed to perform in a professional environment.
The course covers a broad range of structural systems including reinforced concrete frames, flat slabs, shear walls, steel moment frames, and composite elements. Design code compliance — including Eurocodes, ACI, BS standards, and local variants — is integrated throughout, ensuring that participants can configure and apply the correct design parameters for their project jurisdictions. Participants also explore the interoperability between ETABS and ProtaStructure, learning how to transfer models, reconcile results, and exploit the complementary strengths of each platform within a single project workflow.
Upon completing this programme, participants will have the confidence to independently set up, analyse, design, and document structural projects using both software tools, significantly improving their productivity and the quality of their engineering outputs.
Who Should Attend
- Structural engineers seeking to formalise and deepen their ETABS and ProtaStructure skills
- Civil engineers transitioning into structural design roles
- Design engineers working in multi-disciplinary consultancy firms
- Senior structural technicians responsible for model preparation and detailing
- BIM coordinators and structural BIM modellers
- Graduate engineers entering their first structural design positions
- Project engineers who review or approve structural analysis outputs
- Academics and postgraduate students specialising in structural engineering
Learning Objectives
- Understand the theoretical basis of structural modelling, analysis methods, and design code frameworks underpinning both ETABS and ProtaStructure
- Build accurate 3D structural models of multi-storey reinforced concrete and steel buildings in ETABS from scratch
- Define load cases, load combinations, and mass sources correctly in accordance with Eurocode, ACI, and BS loading standards
- Perform linear static, response spectrum, and time-history seismic analyses in ETABS and interpret the results critically
- Design reinforced concrete beams, columns, slabs, and shear walls in ETABS with full code-compliance checks
- Design steel members and connections using ETABS steel design modules and evaluate utilisation ratios
- Create, configure, and analyse complete building models in ProtaStructure including foundations, slabs, and lateral systems
- Generate automated reinforcement detailing drawings and schedules from ProtaStructure and apply quality checks
- Transfer and reconcile structural models between ETABS and ProtaStructure within an integrated project workflow
- Apply seismic design principles and drift/irregularity checks in compliance with relevant international codes
- Interpret and troubleshoot analysis warnings, convergence issues, and design failures in both platforms
- Produce professional structural analysis reports and design summaries suitable for submission to checking authorities
- Apply best-practice modelling standards, file management protocols, and quality assurance procedures in software-based structural design
Course Modules
Module 1: Fundamentals of Structural Modelling and Software Orientation
- Overview of ETABS and ProtaStructure: capabilities, licensing, and industry applications
- Structural modelling concepts: nodes, elements, sections, materials, and boundary conditions
- Setting up a new project in ETABS: units, grid systems, and storey definition
- Setting up a new project in ProtaStructure: project wizard, code selection, and reference levels
- File management, template use, and version control best practices
- Navigating the user interface and customising workspaces in both platforms
Module 2: Geometry Definition and Structural Element Modelling in ETABS
- Defining columns, beams, and walls as frame and area objects in ETABS
- Modelling flat slabs, ribbed slabs, and waffle slabs using shell elements
- Applying section properties and assigning material grades to structural members
- Creating and managing section groups and property sets for efficiency
- Modelling openings, setbacks, and structural irregularities
- Importing architectural CAD and DXF drawings as modelling references
Module 3: Loads, Load Cases, and Load Combinations in ETABS
- Defining dead, superimposed dead, live, wind, and seismic load cases
- Applying area loads, line loads, and point loads to structural elements
- Using ETABS load pattern tools for automatic floor load distribution
- Configuring load combinations in accordance with Eurocode, ACI, and BS standards
- Defining mass sources for dynamic analysis using seismic mass contributions
- Reviewing and validating total base reactions against manual calculations
Module 4: Structural Analysis in ETABS: Linear Static and Modal Analysis
- Running linear static analysis and reviewing deformed shapes and reactions
- Performing modal analysis: extracting natural frequencies and mode shapes
- Evaluating mass participation ratios and determining the number of modes required
- Reviewing storey drifts, displacements, and storey shear outputs
- Detecting and resolving common analysis errors and instability warnings
- Interpreting analysis results tables and using graphical display tools effectively
Module 5: Seismic Analysis and Design in ETABS
- Principles of seismic design: ductility, capacity design, and seismic hazard parameters
- Defining response spectrum functions from Eurocode 8, UBC, and ASCE 7
- Running response spectrum analysis and reviewing CQC/SRSS modal combination results
- Checking inter-storey drift limits and torsional irregularities against code thresholds
- Applying seismic detailing requirements to reinforced concrete members
- Introduction to non-linear time-history analysis: input ground motions and output interpretation
Module 6: Reinforced Concrete Design in ETABS
- Configuring concrete design preferences and overwrites for beams and columns
- Running automated RC beam design and reviewing moment, shear, and torsion reinforcement
- Designing RC columns under combined axial load and biaxial bending with interaction diagrams
- Designing shear walls and core walls: boundary elements, coupling beams, and pier labelling
- Checking punching shear around column heads and slab edges in flat slab systems
- Exporting design results tables and identifying members requiring manual review or redesign
Module 7: Steel Structure Modelling and Design in ETABS
- Defining steel section profiles: I-sections, hollow sections, angles, and channels from section databases
- Modelling steel moment frames, braced frames, and hybrid lateral systems
- Assigning design groups and auto-select section lists for member optimisation
- Running steel member design checks for combined bending, shear, axial, and lateral-torsional buckling
- Reviewing utilisation ratios and resizing members to achieve code-compliant and economical designs
- Introduction to composite beam design: effective slab width, shear stud specifications, and transformed sections
Module 8: Building Modelling and Analysis in ProtaStructure
- Importing and configuring architectural reference plans in ProtaStructure
- Defining columns, beams, slabs, and walls within the ProtaStructure building model
- Applying loads and configuring load cases and combinations in the ProtaStructure environment
- Running analysis in ProtaStructure and comparing results with ETABS benchmarks
- Designing reinforced concrete members in ProtaStructure and reviewing code-check summaries
- Modelling and designing foundation elements: isolated footings, strip footings, and raft foundations
Module 9: Reinforcement Detailing and Drawing Production in ProtaStructure
- Automating reinforcement detailing for beams, columns, slabs, and walls in ProtaStructure
- Reviewing and editing bar arrangements, lap positions, and anchorage lengths
- Generating bar bending schedules and cross-checking against design reinforcement requirements
- Producing structural general arrangement drawings and section drawings from the model
- Applying drawing templates, title blocks, and annotation standards for professional output
- Exporting drawings to DWG format and coordinating with AutoCAD detailing workflows
Module 10: Model Interoperability: ETABS and ProtaStructure Integration
- Exporting ETABS models to CSD/IFC format and importing into ProtaStructure
- Reconciling structural member sizes, loads, and analysis results across platforms
- Identifying and resolving geometry translation errors and element mapping discrepancies
- Using ProtaStructure for detailing following global analysis performed in ETABS
- Managing model updates and change propagation between the two platforms
- Best-practice workflow strategies for multi-software structural design projects
Module 11: Advanced Modelling Techniques and Special Structural Systems
- Modelling transfer plates and transfer beams with staged construction loading
- Simulating post-tensioned slab systems using equivalent load and tendon profile methods
- Modelling podium structures with mixed lateral systems across building zones
- Applying semi-rigid diaphragm assumptions for structures with significant slab openings
- Modelling retaining walls and basement structures with soil-structure interaction springs
- Analysing structures with plan and vertical irregularities and applying amplification factors
Module 12: Quality Assurance, Reporting, and Code Compliance Documentation
- Establishing a structural design quality plan: checks, sign-offs, and peer review protocols
- Preparing a structural analysis and design basis report for project submission
- Documenting model assumptions, load derivations, and design code references clearly
- Validating software outputs against independent hand calculations and code provisions
- Preparing structural calculation packages for statutory approval and checking authority submission
- Organising project folders, model archives, and as-built documentation for future reference
Module 13: Capstone Project: Full Building Design from Modelling to Drawing Production
- Receiving a multi-storey mixed-use building project brief with full architectural and loading information
- Building the complete structural model in ETABS: geometry, loads, analysis, and member design
- Verifying seismic performance, storey drift compliance, and member utilisation across all load combinations
- Transferring the design to ProtaStructure for detailing, reinforcement scheduling, and drawing production
- Conducting a structured design review: identifying and correcting errors, omissions, and code non-compliances
- Presenting the completed structural design package to the group for critique and instructor feedback
Requirements & Prerequisites
Participants should hold a degree or higher national diploma in civil or structural engineering, or have equivalent professional experience in a structural design role. A working understanding of structural engineering fundamentals — including static equilibrium, load paths, reinforced concrete and steel design principles — is essential prior to attending. Familiarity with basic computer-aided design tools is helpful; no prior experience with ETABS or ProtaStructure is required, as the course begins with platform orientation before progressing to advanced applications.
Training Methodology
- Structured software demonstrations using real building case studies, with instructors narrating design decisions in real time so participants understand the reasoning behind every modelling choice
- Guided hands-on modelling exercises in which participants build, analyse, and design complete structural models from provided project briefs on their own workstations
- Comparative analysis sessions where the same structural problem is solved in both ETABS and ProtaStructure, highlighting each platform's strengths and guiding participants on tool selection
- Code-compliance workshops in which participants configure design parameters for Eurocode, ACI, and BS standards and evaluate the impact of different code settings on design outcomes
- Troubleshooting clinics where common modelling errors, analysis warnings, and design failures are intentionally introduced and participants are coached through systematic diagnosis and resolution
- Seismic design scenario exercises using response spectrum and time-history analysis, with peer review of drift checks, irregularity assessments, and modal participation outputs
- Drawing production and quality review sessions in ProtaStructure where participants generate reinforcement schedules, spot-check bar arrangements, and mark up issues as they would in professional practice
- Group critique of completed models at the end of each major exercise, fostering discussion of alternative modelling approaches and professional judgement in design decisions
Organisational Benefits
- Increased in-house structural design capability, reducing reliance on external consultants and sub-consultants
- Faster project delivery cycles through proficient use of automated analysis, design, and detailing workflows
- Improved accuracy and consistency of structural designs, reducing costly errors and rework during construction
- Enhanced ability to comply with international and local structural design codes, lowering regulatory risk
- Stronger BIM integration capacity through ProtaStructure's interoperability with other design platforms
- Higher quality deliverables — including drawings and reports — that meet client and statutory authority expectations
- Better-equipped engineering teams capable of handling complex, high-value structural projects
- Reduced software learning curve for new hires through standardised in-house modelling practices
- Improved coordination between structural, architectural, and MEP disciplines on multi-disciplinary projects
- Demonstrable technical competency that supports business development, tendering, and client confidence
Where Is Structural Design with ETABS and ProtaStructure Software Training Offered?
This course runs in-person across: Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Riyadh, Cape Town, Mombasa, Lagos, Naivasha, Kampala, Accra, Kigali, Nairobi, Dubai, Arusha, Addis Ababa, Pretoria, Kisumu, Abuja, Zanzibar, Nakuru, plus Live Virtual (online) cohorts. Browse live dates for your city below.
Upcoming Schedules
| Location | Format | Dates | Price |
|---|
| Johannesburg, South Africa |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 7,000 |
| Dar es Salaam, Tanzania |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 4,600 |
| Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 9,000 |
| Cape Town, South Africa |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 7,600 |
| Mombasa, Kenya |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
KES 240,000 |
| Lagos, Nigeria |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 5,000 |
| Naivasha, Kenya |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
KES 240,000 |
| Kampala, Uganda |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 3,800 |
| Accra, Ghana |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 7,600 |
| Kigali, Rwanda |
In-Person |
26 Oct 2026 – 4 Nov 2026 |
USD 3,800 |
| Naivasha, Kenya |
In-Person |
2 Nov 2026 – 11 Nov 2026 |
KES 240,000 |
| Kampala, Uganda |
In-Person |
2 Nov 2026 – 11 Nov 2026 |
USD 3,800 |
| Kigali, Rwanda |
In-Person |
2 Nov 2026 – 13 Nov 2026 |
USD 3,800 |
| Nairobi, Kenya |
In-Person |
2 Nov 2026 – 13 Nov 2026 |
KES 230,000 |
| Accra, Ghana |
In-Person |
2 Nov 2026 – 11 Nov 2026 |
USD 7,600 |
+226 more dates — view live schedule →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience with ETABS or ProtaStructure to attend?
No prior experience with either software is required. The course begins with a thorough orientation to both platforms before progressing to intermediate and advanced topics. However, participants should have a solid foundation in structural engineering principles, as the training focuses on software application rather than teaching basic structural theory from scratch.
Which design codes are covered during the training?
The course covers the most widely used international structural design codes, including Eurocode 2 and 8 (RC and seismic design), ACI 318, BS 8110, and ASCE 7 loading provisions. Participants learn how to configure code parameters within both ETABS and ProtaStructure, making the skills directly transferable to projects in different regulatory jurisdictions.
Will participants receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes. Participants who attend the full programme and complete the capstone project receive a Certificate of Completion from TrainingComplex, confirming their proficiency in structural design using ETABS and ProtaStructure. This certificate can be submitted as evidence of CPD hours to relevant professional engineering bodies.
Are software licences provided during the training?
TrainingComplex provides fully licensed versions of both ETABS and ProtaStructure on dedicated training workstations for the duration of the in-person course. Participants attending the Live Virtual sessions will receive detailed instructions on obtaining trial licences prior to the course start date.
What type of projects are used in the hands-on exercises?
All practical exercises are based on realistic multi-storey building projects — including reinforced concrete office buildings, mixed-use residential towers, and steel-framed structures — representative of the types of projects participants encounter in professional practice. The capstone project on the final days integrates all skills into a complete design deliverable from modelling through to drawing production.
