The Institution of Structural Engineers The Institution of Structural Engineers
Studying structural engineering at college or university

Studying structural engineering at college or university

Tag
Author
Date published
Price

It can be daunting choosing the right university and course. Read our top tips to help you make the right choice.

Here are four top tips to help you pick the right engineering course for you:

 

Visit university open days:

It’s really important that you are happy in your university: you are going to study there for three or four years. Open days are a great opportunity to visit the campus (and the surrounding area), tour the department you’re interested in, and speak to staff and other students.

 

Pick the right course title:

The best courses to pick for a structural engineering career include:
 

  • Civil Engineering
     
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
     
  • Architectural Engineering
     
  • Structural Engineering with Architectural Design
     
  • General Engineering (Civil Engineering Pathway)

 

Take an accredited course:

Make sure you pick a course that’s accredited - that is approved by professional engineering institutions like IStructE - this will make it much easier to find a job and become professionally registered later on. You can find accredited courses on the Engineering Council website.

 

Pick a Bachelor or Masters degrees:

A Master of Engineering (MEng) involves four years of study (five in Scotland). MEng degrees are the gold standard and set you on the right path to become a full member of the Institution. To apply for an MEng degree you will usually need a minimum of 300 UCAS points.

You can still work towards becoming a Member with a Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or BSc or BEng with Honours (Hons) degree. These generally involve three years’ study (or four in Scotland). You will need a minimum of 225 UCAS points.

 

 

 

Resources to support your studies

Guidance
<h4>Essential Knowledge Text No.1 Introduction: Part 1 - Structure is everywhere!</h4>

Essential Knowledge Text No.1 Introduction: Part 1 - Structure is everywhere!

This Text introduces the universal role of structures in our world. It explains the complex thought processes that are at play in the act of ‘structural design’ and highlights the challenges and rewards of design synthesis.

Date – 1 March 2016
Author – C. Wise
Price – Free
Exam preparation
IStructE image 3D

Structural Behaviour Quiz

Our Structural Behaviour Course offers 200 sample questions which assess elements of structural behaviour, providing detailed feedback on your answers.

Price – From free
Guidance
<h4>Going to university guide</h4>

Going to university guide

A guide that defines structural engineering and explains how you can become a structural engineer.

Date – 29 May 2019
Author – IStructE
Price – Free

Explore our training, events and resources to support you throughout your career and membership journey.