Construction engineers combine their knowledge of civil engineering and structural design with project management skills to perform their jobs in the building trades. A four-year bachelor degree in construction engineering is the typical route to a job in the field. College classes include theoretical work in the classroom as well as hands-on experience in the field working with construction equipment and materials.
Certain high school courses are ideal to prepare for a career as a construction engineer. Take advanced classes in science and math, as well as computer training. Some colleges do not admit students into construction engineering programs until the student completes a year of college courses. During this time, the student should take core classes in communications, history, computer literacy, foreign language, fine arts and other courses required for a liberal arts degree. The student should also complete advanced science and math classes established by the university as prerequisites for admission to the construction engineering degree program.
A construction engineering program instructs students in construction planning and equipment. Students learn to design projects using construction materials such as wood, steel and concrete so they are built to last. Students also learn how to rebuild existing structures safely and how to recycle materials. The construction engineer student must take math and science classes appropriate for his major, such as calculus, statistics and engineering mechanics. Meanwhile, classes in business management prepare future engineers to become successful business owners.
Many schools offer internships that allow students to work with experienced construction engineers on building projects. Some training is available during the school year, but many schools offer paid summer internships in the construction trades. This gives construction engineering students the hands-on experience they need once they graduate.
It is possible to earn a master’s degree in construction engineering. The advanced training includes courses in structural stability and dynamics. Students work with advanced designs in steel, concrete and wood. They study how geology affects the foundations of buildings and the effects of seismic changes from earthquakes. Some construction engineering students pursuing advanced studies choose to focus on design rather than construction.
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