How to become a structural engineer

Is becoming a structural engineer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do structural engineers do?

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How to become a Structural Engineer

To become a structural engineer, several steps are typically involved. Here is a detailed guide on the educational and professional requirements:

  • Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering from an accredited institution. The program should provide a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, mechanics, structural analysis, and design principles.
  • Gain Work Experience: Acquire practical experience through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions in engineering firms or construction companies. This hands-on experience will help you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects and develop essential skills.
  • Pursue a Master's Degree (Optional): Although not mandatory, obtaining a Master's Degree in Structural Engineering or a related field can provide advanced knowledge and specialization. This can be particularly beneficial if you aim to work on complex or specialized projects, conduct research, or pursue leadership positions.
  • Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: The FE exam is the first step towards becoming a licensed professional engineer (PE). It covers fundamental engineering principles and must be passed to proceed further in the licensure process. The exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
  • Gain Professional Experience: Work under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer for a minimum of four years. This experience should involve progressively increasing responsibilities and tasks related to structural engineering. The exact requirements may vary by state.
  • Pass the Professional Engineering (PE) Exam: Once you have gained the necessary professional experience, you can take the PE exam. This comprehensive exam assesses your knowledge and competence in the field of structural engineering. It typically includes both a breadth exam, covering general engineering principles, and a depth exam specific to structural engineering.
  • Obtain Professional Licensure: After successfully passing the PE exam, apply for licensure as a professional engineer in the state(s) where you plan to practice. Each state has its own licensing board and requirements, which may include a review of your education, experience, and examination results.
  • Continuing Education: Maintain your professional engineering license by fulfilling the continuing education requirements set by the licensing board. This involves regularly participating in professional development activities, such as attending seminars, workshops, or courses, to stay updated with industry advancements, codes, and regulations.

Certifications
There are several certifications available for structural engineers that can enhance their professional credentials and demonstrate their expertise in specific areas. Here are some notable certifications:

  • Structural Engineering Certification Board (SECB): SECB offers the Structural Engineering Certification, which is a nationally recognized certification program for structural engineers. It assesses the candidate's competency in structural engineering and requires a combination of education, professional experience, and a rigorous examination.
  • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certifications: While not specific to structural engineering, LEED certifications are valuable for engineers working on sustainable building projects. The LEED Green Associate and LEED AP Building Design + Construction (BD+C) certifications are relevant for professionals involved in sustainable building design and construction.
  • State-Specific Certifications: Some states may have their own certification programs or requirements for structural engineers. These certifications may focus on specific regulations, seismic design, or other local considerations. Examples include the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists (CBPELSG) certification for structural engineers practicing in California.

Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) Certifications
SEI, a division of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), offers various certifications in specialized areas of structural engineering, including:

  • SEI/ASCE Blast Protection of Buildings (BPE) Certification: Focuses on the design and evaluation of structures for blast resistance.
  • SEI/ASCE Cold-Formed Steel Design (CFSD) Certification: Validates expertise in the design of cold-formed steel structures.
  • SEI/ASCE Structural Engineering Certification in Wood (SECW): Demonstrates proficiency in the design of wood structures.
  • SEI/ASCE Design of Aluminum Structures (DAS) Certification: Validates knowledge in the design and analysis of aluminum structures.