How to Become an Architectural Engineer

An architectural engineer uses engineering principles and theories to design or renovate buildings that are suited to their environment. While architecture deals with the appearance and aesthetics of a building, architectural engineering involves the design and analysis of the workings of the building. However, these 2 jobs often overlap with each other.

Things You'll Need

• AutoCAD software

Instructions

1. Take the proper high school courses, which include English, math, science, word processing, art and drafting. More competitive students take classes in calculus.

2. Make sure that your prospective school has the proper accreditation with the ABET, or the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (see Resources below).

3. Talk to the undergraduate advisor of the architectural engineering program of your prospective school. This person will help familiarize you with the core curriculum.

4. Declare a major in architectural engineering while in college. This is usually a 4- or 5-year Bachelor of Science program.

5. Become familiar with the top drafting software packages, such as AutoCAD.

6. Settle on one or more specialties in architectural engineering. Examples are environmental systems, electrical systems and structural systems.

7. Work on small group, team building and leadership skills. Architectural engineers must work effectively with architects, engineers and other professionals.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many job titles associated with architectural engineering. These include plant or facilities engineer, construction project manager, structural engineer or professor/researcher.

• What distinguishes architectural engineers from other engineering fields is their use and appreciation of architecture principles.

• The future looks bright for anyone who wants to become an architectural engineer. Statistics show that the demand for these professionals has steadily grown and should continue as such in the coming years.

• Many people do not understand the difference between architectural and civil engineering. Whereas architectural engineering is concerned with building structure and design, civil engineering involves site development, transportation, water management and other issues.

• While the typical architectural engineering program is a Bachelor of Science degree, some programs offer an additional Master of Science degree.

• Architectural engineers are not necessary able to practice architecture, but they must be licensed to do so.

• Be very familiar with the enrollment requirements of an engineering school. Most students must be admitted to an engineering school during their freshman year.

• Architectural engineering programs are generally very rigorous and competitive, often requiring a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

Resources

• Requirements Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology