Often Asked Questions about Architectural Engineering
What is the difference between Structural Engineering and Architectural Engineering( in degree program verse the workforce)?
One of the Options (specialties) in architectural engineering is structural engineering. Our graduates in this option eventually become structural engineers. The AE structural engineers are more familiar with the buildings and their demands when they graduate than their civil engineering counterparts (partly because of the 5 year AE program and partly because CE covers other type of structures as well). Structural Engineers is also a registration title. Some states require an engineer pass a second licensure test in order to become a structural engineer. Otherwise that engineer is licensed as a Civil Engineer. This is typical where structural design is more critical due to hurricanes or earthquakes. Posted 3/09.
What are the employment opportunities for Architectural Engineers?
Employment opportunities of our graduates have been really good. In a typical year, we place everyone. We have a career fair in the fall where 160 companies come to recruit our 100 graduates. Underclassmen get an opportunity to ask for summer jobs at the career fair as a result. This year (2009) with the economic downturn, I don’t know what the final count will be. It is definitely slower. Posted 3/09.
What type of agencies/firms hire Architectural Engineers?
Graduates work for AE firms where architects and engineers are in the same organization, consulting engineering firms where engineers work by themselves, construction firms, construction management firms, design build firms, government entities, building owners, manufacturers and other related fields. Some graduates go on to graduate school for AE. Others go to grad school for architecture. Posted 3/09.