How to Become a Structural Engineer

Why Become a Structural Engineer?

Structural engineers, which can be referred to architectural engineers or a type of civil engineer or be called architectural engineering, employment of structural engineers is expected to grow 20% from now until at least 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As the nation’s infrastructure ages the need for qualified and skilled structural engineers will be called upon to plan the designing of bridges, pipelines, highways and buildings.

Recommended Courses to Help You Become a Structural Engineer

• Introduction to Structures and Design
• Structural Materials
• Mechanics: Statics
• Mechanics: Dynamics
• Conceptual Structural Design
• Steel Bridge Design
• Fluid Mechanics for Structural Engineering
• Engineering Graphics & Computer Aided Structural Design
• Statistics, Probability and Reliability
• Structural Analysis

Degree Options for Becoming a Structural Engineer

Structural engineering is a highly specialized job and even the lowest entry-level positions call for a bachelor’s degree. Mid level to senior management positions will most like require advanced degrees.

Associate’s Degree
An associate’s degree in Architectural Technology prepares for careers with design and drafting. These careers range from building bridges to drafting plans for strip malls and housing complexes.

Bachelor’s Degree
The more advanced bachelor’s degree offers insights and practical experience with engineering basics and combines those with courses on building materials how they are used with structures.

Master’s Degree
The extension the undergrad studies, the M.S. degree program provides students with additional structural engineering fundamental knowledge and advanced knowledge in selected structural engineering aspects.

Ph.D.
Much like most Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees program, the structural enginer concentration is desinged to prepare students for careers in teaching, research, and practice in teh field.