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Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Structural Engineering
Online Bachelor's Degree Programs in Structural Engineering
At the bachelor's degree level, structural engineering can be studied within civil engineering programs, though online programs are rare. Learn about the topics covered in a civil engineering program, and find out career information for structural engineers.
What Bachelor's Degrees Can I Earn in Structural Engineering?
Structural engineering is part of the larger field of civil engineering that entails analyzing and designing structural elements that can withstand natural and man-made forces. If you want to learn structural engineering, you can look for programs that award Bachelor of Science degrees in civil and environmental engineering, structural design and construction engineering technology, or civil engineering. All of these programs cover the same material, and some may offer concentrations in structural engineering. You should ensure that the degree program you choose is recognized by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Online programs are rare and may require you to complete some curricular requirements in person. You may have to attend lab courses on campus and take proctored tests and exams at a designated site. The advantage of earning your degree in person is that you may qualify for internships that allow you to apply your skills on the job.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Fields</b></td><td> Civil and environmental engineering, structural design and construction engineering technology, civil engineering</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td> Online programs are not common and may have on-campus requirements</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Structural dynamics, surveying, fluid mechanics, steel structure designing, geotechnical engineering</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Licensing Information</b></td><td> NCEES certification is required for work</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3><p>Structural and civil engineering programs provide you with the basic knowledge to design and supervise construction projects, including buildings, transportation systems, bridges, dams and public sanitation systems. You learn how to design specific structural components and entire structures that meet budgetary, environmental, safety and ethical requirements. Bachelor's degree programs provide you with the knowledge to account for the engineering calculations, materials strengths, costs and design principles involved with each type of project.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatDoMyCoursesCover">What Do My Courses Cover?</h3><p>As a civil engineering major, you can expect to complete coursework in construction management, geotechnical engineering, surveying, fluid mechanics and computer modeling. You may also take courses in engineering economics, technical writing, construction estimating and engineering ethics. Topics of study specific to structural engineering may include:
</p><ul><li>Designing steel structures
</li><li>Designing reinforced concrete structures
</li><li>Structural dynamics
</li><li>Structural systems design and analysis
</li><li>Statics and strength of materials
</li></ul><p>Your curriculum may include an internship or senior capstone. Depending on the program, your capstone will either be a series of specialized courses or a design project.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyDegree">What Can I Do with My Degree?</h3><p>A bachelor's degree in civil engineering qualifies you for entry-level positions in structural engineering, but you'll need to become licensed through the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) before you can offer your services to the public as an independent consultant. Licensure typically requires a minimum of four years of engineering experience and completion of a state examination in addition to your ABET-accredited degree. Successful completion of your bachelor's degree also prepares you for further study in a master's degree program in structural engineering.
</p><p>According to the US Bureaus of Labor Statistics (BLS), a civil engineer's median salary as of May 2020 is $88,570. Job opportunity for civil engineers is anticipated to grow by 2% between 2019-2029.</p>
