Structural
Students in the structural option learn skills that allow them to design structures that successfully integrate structure, environmental systems, and architecture.
All structural engineering students begin with a background in statics, dynamics, materials, design, and analysis techniques. Additional courses include geotechnical and foundation engineering, surveying, and advanced concrete and steel design.
Penn State AE students learn the latest techniques, such as LRFD, often comparing the results of LRFD against ASD in their senior thesis projects. Structural option students possess an extra edge in the form of a basic knowledge of all building systems structural, environmental, and architectural, as well as construction management. They consider the building and its construction as a whole and incorporate this into their designs.
Structural option students have access to the most current computer programs, which include but are not limited to:
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ACAD R13
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STAAD 3
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RISA 2D & 3D
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STRUDL
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ADOSS
There are also various electives of interest available, such as Wood Design, Residential Design, and Modern Structural Systems.