Requirements to Be a Land Surveyor

Surveyors record physical characteristics of land, and determine property boundaries by investigating legal documents and conducting on-site measurement. They work outdoors and also do research in libraries, government offices and on the computer. Strict requirements exist to become a land surveyor.

Education

Employers usually require surveyors to have a bachelor's degree in Surveying and Mapping or a related field, or to have an associate's degree in surveying technology. People who have been working in surveying for many years without formal education will find it more difficult to advance or become hired by a different employer.

Specific Coursework

Coursework includes industrial math, geometry and trigonometry, engineering mechanics, law for surveyors and technical surveying methodologies.

Licensing

All land surveyors must hold a professional license. Requirements vary among states and jurisdictions, and many surveyors obtain a license in several states. New surveyors should contact the state Department of Licensing for specific requirements.

Education for Licensing

Education requirements for licensing in some areas may mandate a bachelor of science degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Some states allow a non-academic option, but this may require between 8 to 12 years of surveying experience.

Work Experience for Licensing

Licensing requirements also include passing two exams. The new surveyor first completes the Fundamentals of Surveying Exam, and then goes on to gain at least 2 years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed surveyor before being eligible to take the Principles and Practice of Surveying Exam.

Physical Abilities

Land surveyors must be physically fit, able to walk lengthy distances while carrying surveying equipment and stand for long periods of time.