Structural engineering deals with the design of building and other non-building structures such as the design of machinery, medical equipment, and vehicles, etc.
Thus, It is the specialty of civil engineering, where a structural engineer ensures that architectural components are structurally sound.
Educational requirements for a structural engineer:
Bachelor degree or masters degree in structural engineering or civil engineering is a must to get in.
Some candidates with HNDs in subjects including construction and civil engineering also become structural engineers.
Many large engineering companies offer graduate trainning schemes and these are popular ways of getting entry in to industry.
Skills required :
Creativity.
Communication skills.
Excellent computer skills.
Analytical skills.
Detail orientation.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Knowledge of construction management.
Up-to-date technical skills.
Proficiency with CAD software application like AutoCAD and RISA.
Some of the responsibilities performed by structural engineer :
Structural engineer works closely with clients, architects,building contractors and other engineers. A structural engineer will have to perform the following duties :
Assessing budget of the project.
Liaising with construction contractors to ensure that newly erected buildings are structurally sound or not.
Design models of structures using software.
Perform accurate calculations about each elements of the building.
Assessing the reaction of buildings to pressures and stress.
Finalising the materials that would be suitable for the structure.
And using computers and computer-aided design(CAD) technology for simulation purposes.
Applying expert knowledge of the forces that act on various structures.
Workplace of structural engineer :
The major employers of structural engineers include:
Engineering consultancies.
Oil companies.
The civil service.
The armed forces.
Local authorities.
Railway operators.
Civil engineering contractors.
Public utility companies.
Earning of Structural Engineer :
Newly qualified structural engineer can earn $18,000 to $25,000.
An experienced structural engineer can earn between $40,000 to $50,000.
In India, starting monthly salary in the private sector could be around Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 20,000. In government departments, initial income may range from Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 12,000.
With experience and advanced degrees one can earn Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 60,000 per month.
If you are interested in having degree in Structural Engineering but confused in selecting colleges. So, here are some top engineering colleges mentioned below, have a look:
Top Structural Engineering Colleges Abroad :
University of Cambridge.
University of California,Berkeley (UCB).
The University of Tokyo.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Top Structural Engineering colleges in India :
SRM University, Chennai.
IES Institute of Technology and Management,Bhopal.
R.V College of Engineering, Bangalore.
Bangalore Institute of Technology, Bangalore.