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What is Structural Engineering?

Structural engineering is a discipline within civil engineering.  A structural engineer focuses on linking the numerical quantities of physical forces with physical force-resisting elements.  The basic problem-solving tools of a structural engineer lies in analysis, design, implementation.

Analysis is the process of understanding forces of each element as related to other defined elements.  Design follows mathematical and statistical analysis by configuring elements to properly resist forces.  Preliminary analysis and design are followed by implementation and testing of a new or modified structural element.  Analysis is performed and additional design work is executed prior to final implementation to ensure iterations result in optimal results.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$83,540

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

55.63%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

281400

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Structural Engineering Degree

The University of Southern California offers a program for MSCE Structural Engineering. This program is designed to deal with analytical as well as experimental studies of the behavior structures and environmental loads. Admission to this program requires a Bachelor degree in Civil Engineering, Applied Mechanics, Physics, Mathematics or Mechanical Engineering. Students that hold a degree in Physics or Mathematics will still need to take additional engineering courses that cover the basics of structural analysis, strength of materials, and design.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The students to faculty ratio of Structural Engineering MEng program at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is 6:1. Just over one thousand of their graduates were successfully employed directly out of school while others pursued a higher education. The faculty working here are highly accomplished structural engineers, some serve as presidents of major professional organizations, members of national committees who write codes and specifications while others are editors of premier journals. They can also guarantee that they are all well connected to engineering practice due to the extensive counseling they experienced. World-class resources, a well-equipped high bay structural testing facility and the state-of-the-art computing resources is what this program proudly provides.

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

A degree in Structural Engineering and Mechanics is available at the University of California-Los Angeles. They conduct experimental studies on the strength of full-scale reinforced design of earthquake resistant masonry, concrete structures, and design of seismic-resistant bridges/buildings in an aim to assure its capability to survive major earthquakes. Both teaching and research areas involve the assessment of new and existing structures’ performance. Other vital fields of the study are reliability-based design and performance assessment methodologies.

Acceptance Rate

12.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

New York University offers top rated degree in Structural Engineering. Their Masters in Civil Engineering program offers flexibility. Applicants are allowed to concentrate in structural engineering among any other options. Structural engineering concentration is designed to be practice-oriented but does not limit the students in participating in advanced cutting-edge research.

Acceptance Rate

16.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The Structural Engineering Department at the University of California-San Diego focuses on four pragmatic areas which are aerospace and composite structures, geotechnical engineering, and civil structures. They offer undergraduate and graduate programs that are characterized by strong interdisciplinary relationships with other Departments. The program and curricula of this program is devoted in educating and training engineers in a holistic approach. They give stress in building the commonality of engineering structures.

Acceptance Rate

31.48

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Lehigh University offers graduate programs (M.S. & Ph.D.) in Structural Engineering that focuses on analytical as well as experimental studies of structural behavior. Students are trained to develop the skills needed in designing and constructing large-scale and complex structural systems. During the programs, they will acquire technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. A diverse faculty research will be provided so that students can pursue projects that are aligned to their interests and goals.

Acceptance Rate

32.1

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering are both offered at Stevens Institute of Technology. Their undergraduate program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. This program offers the opportunity for students to study in the heart of the tri-state area where students are surrounded by modern marvels of civil engineering and some of the top firms in the field. The graduate program provides solid theoretical foundations in the applicant’s chosen area of concentration.

Acceptance Rate

39.96

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

The Civil, Construction, and Structural Engineering Department at San Diego University offers hands-on Engineering education and provides programs that are accredited that are highly valued by potential employers. The programs available here promotes and cherishes diversity. They guarantee excellence in teaching and they strongly commit to make it their everyday practice. They always had strong links and long history with the local industry.

Acceptance Rate

34.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

27:1

The Graduate Certificate Structural Engineering at the University of Central Florida prepares the students for a life beyond the classroom. Wide range of opportunities can be expected by the students. They will have the chance to learn diverse skills from world-renowned faculty and even be able to network with top employers across Central Florida. Master’s degree in Civil Engineering-Structural Engineering is also offered and it can be fully completed online. 

Acceptance Rate

44.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

The BS in Structural Engineering at the University at Buffalo included math and science courses for the freshman and sophomore years. For the junior and senior years, they required civil engineering courses, while technical elective courses are exclusively included for the senior year. Majors are allowed to pursue a general degree program or they can choose to configure their electives to provide specialization in one of the four sub-disciplines. Their primary goal is this; to develop graduates that will become the leader in their profession.

Acceptance Rate

61.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

MSCE Program-Structural Engineering at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona trains graduates to help them prepare for a work as practicing structural engineers. They require each student to complete a master’s project or take a comprehensive examination. Graduate students who want to take advantage of this program must meet the academic advisor to create a written course of study which outlines the specific courses that the applicant will take in order to complete the MSCE degree. At the tenth week of the second semester, the approved program of study shall be submitted.

Acceptance Rate

54.59

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

M.ENG. in Structural Engineering degree program at Illinois Institute of Technology covers the topics in advanced reinforced concrete, advanced structural analysis, and advanced structural theory and design. All of the advanced knowledge needed in order to design this built environment will be provided. This program teaches how buildings and bridges are designed to resist the forces imposed upon them. The career opportunities that await those who complete this program can be as a structural engineer, structural designer, or senior project engineer.

Acceptance Rate

60.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

The School of Engineering at Citadel Military College of South Carolina offers a program in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Its mission is to provide a nationally recognized student-centered learning environment in order to produce principled leaders. The curriculum they established gives emphasis to theoretical and practical engineering concepts. They offer small class sizes to ensure each student’s active participation.

Acceptance Rate

74.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Seattle University offers a program in Structural Engineering Degree that is Informed by the Industry from the Ground Up. The courses they provide refine the practicing community and are able to give the essentials that employers require. Students here master the skills that are highly valued by the industry. Their MSST program is professionally-focused and is tailored to respond to the demand for structural engineers who possess advanced technical and professional skills.

Acceptance Rate

78.48

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

California State University-Northridge offers an undergraduate and graduate program in Structural Engineering. Students under these programs develop an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences. They learned how to apply the principles of knowledge of engineering, mathematics and science as they identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems. They will also be trained in developing and conducting experimentation, interpreting data, and using engineering judgment when drawing conclusions.

Acceptance Rate

59.34

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

The Civil and Structural Engineering degree at Milwaukee School of Engineering provides the students the expertise to plan, design and build the systems that make the world function. MSOE’s Engineering program played an important role from the water that is safe to drink to the roads that are convenient to drive on. The specializations that a Civil Engineering student may choose from are Construction management, Environmental and water Resources engineering, Transportation Engineering, and Structural Engineering. The quality of education that this program offers is verified when they receive accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Acceptance Rate

61.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Online program for a Graduate Certificate in Structural Engineering is offered at the University of Louisville. This certificate will increase one’s marketability with a worldwide-recognized credential. Under just a year of study this graduate certificate can be completed. This allows the applicants to skip the GRE.

Acceptance Rate

69.28

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The Civil and Environmental Engineering program at Missouri University offers a Structural Emphasis. This imparts knowledge of the properties and behaviors of concrete, timber and plastic, and exotic materials. To make sure that certain plans are followed, students will often spend time on the construction site to inspect and verify the work. They will learn how to face the challenges of analyzing and designing structures just to guarantee its safety.

Acceptance Rate

79.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The major in Structural Engineering at the University of Akron provides numerous opportunities. It allows the students to gain real life experiences through internships. Privilege to design and plan large-scale projects such as bridges and power plants are offered in this program. Students will also acquire knowledge on how to design and maintain transportation systems.

Acceptance Rate

73.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The primary areas of focus at Western Michigan University’s Graduate Level Department are structural engineering, transportation engineering, and construction engineering and management. Through the program options that they offer, students may earn the degree on a full-time or part-time basis. Not only that, they can also have a design or research orientation. They give their earnest efforts just to maintain a high-quality graduate program.

Acceptance Rate

79.86

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Associate in Science in Structural Engineering Technology program is offered at Harrisburg Area Community College. Their program in Structural Engineering covers the largest discipline within the civil engineering field. This program is known to be an exciting point for a specialized and dynamic field of engineering. To see detailed information about AS program in structural Engineering, you may visit the school’s website.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The Construction Management program is what the College of Southern Nevada offers. This program houses the degrees which prepare students to supervise and at the same time manage the construction of both commercial and residential buildings. They teach their students the procedures and materials needed in order to comply with plans, building codes, and specifications. Graduates of this program may pursue a career as project schedulers project superintendents, construction estimators and other supervisory positions in the construction industry.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

23:1

What Does a Structural Engineer Do?

A structural engineer may be hired to perform a number of critical tasks and projects.  Examples of what a structural engineer does include:

  • Analyze the soil composition of a project
  • Write specifications for building processes
  • Produce various load reports
  • Develop blueprints using CAD software
  • Adhere to local building codes
  • Design elements of a project ad hoc

A structural engineer will need to have a number of innate skills in their proverbial quiver to succeed on the job.  Engineers must be equipped with exceptional communication, detail orientation, synthesize new information quickly, solve complex problems as variables change, utilize deductive reasoning, gather information quickly and accurately, collaborate with others, work with computers, comply to exact specifications, take initiative, work independently, look to enhance safety measures, and recognize opportunities for cost savings.

What is a Structure?

Simply put, a structure is anything resisting a lateral and gravity load.  Structural engineers work with structures that range from skyscrapers and power plants to windows and chairs.  The analysis and design required by each structure must be calculated to exact specifications by a structural engineer to balance utility with cost.

Difference Between Gravity Load & Lateral Load

All structures are affected by gravity.  In the world of a structural engineer, a gravity load can be a lateral load or gravity load.  A lateral load is a horizontal force generated by such things as wind, hurricanes, explosions, and earthquakes.  A gravity load, on the other hand, is a vertical force known as a permanent load or dead load.  Gravity loads entail the weight of a structure such as beams, walls, floors, furnishings, electrical systems, and mechanical systems plus temporary loads such as inhabitants, rain, snow, and contents.

Structural Engineer Requirements

A program in structural engineering will focus on the physics of architectural frames and foundations, allowing an individual to learn to identify flaws in design and planning to ensure that the proposed project is constructed and built to last.

As a sub field of civil engineering, exposure to large projects relating to infrastructure are common, including sewer systems, freeways, roads and other public projects.  A structural engineering degree will provide students with an education in science, architecture, mathematics, and city planning.  A curriculum may include:

  • Physics
  • Structural Materials
  • Calculus
  • Engineering Design
  • Spatial Visualization
  • Mechanics: Statics, Dynamics, Vibrations
  • Solid Mechanics & Fluid Mechanics
  • Engineering Principles
  • Computing for Engineers
  • Statistical Analysis, Probability, and Reliability
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Composite Structures
  • Design and Structure
  • Seismic Design
  • Foundations and Frames
Hallmarks of Top Engineering Schools

Students searching for top rated structural engineering schools should research schools offering structural and civil engineering degrees.  The hallmark of top tier engineering departments are ones that will 1) maintain close to ties to local projects and government agencies, 2) offer students internship or research opportunities, and 3) invest in modern facilities with leading edge equipment and technology.

Access to reviews and contact information for such departments should be readily available.  Students should research structural engineering degrees thoroughly as part of the university vetting process.

What Do Structural Engineers Learn in School?

A structural engineer must be equipped with skills, theories, and knowledge to succeed in a variety of work settings. Structural engineers must have working knowledge of a number of academic disciplines such as: statistics, hydrology, mathematics, physics, geophysics, construction engineering, chemistry, geology, computer-aided design (CAD), architecture, seismology, project management, and chemistry. Utilization of key engineering disciplines will vary by school yet the cornerstone principles of structural design and engineering will permeate all programs.

Employment Opportunities for Structural Engineers

Individuals will seek employment in public agencies or through private contractors. Individuals may seek entry level employment with a bachelor’s degree, but most supervisory and research positions require at minimum a master’s due to increasing complexity of the work. The demand for educated structural engineers is expected to increase proportionally to the number of public projects and infrastructure developments taking place over the next decade.

Where Do Structural Engineers Work?

A structural engineer can work for a variety of institutions across a number of industries.  Trained structural engineers can work for private firms, public utilities, local government agencies, consulting firms, civil engineers, public companies, non-profit organizations, construction companies, sustainable energy companies, auto manufacturers, aerospace companies, and transportation organizations.

They will generally split time between field work and office work to accurately collect information and match computer-based designs with real world designs.  Projects can range from small projects to large project, both internationally and domestically.

Top Employers of Structural Engineers

  • Architectural and Engineering Firms   153,310
  • State Government Agencies                     33,530
  • Local Government Agencies                    29,590
  • Commercial Building Companies           18,770
  • Federal Government Agencies                  9,360

States with the Highest Employment of Structural Engineers

  1. California          38,440
  2. Texas                  26,580
  3. Florida               16,390
  4. New York          15,450
  5. Pennsylvania    12,490

Top Paying States for Structural Engineers

  1. Alaska                            $120,580
  2. District of Columbia   $107,210
  3. California                      $104,570
  4. Texas                             $99,810
  5. New Jersey                   $98,930

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