Civil vs Mechanical Engineering - Structural

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision between pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering (CE) or Mechanical Engineering (ME) for a specialization in structural engineering, particularly focusing on large structures like buildings and bridges. It is established that structural calculations must be PE stamped by civil engineers, which ties them to building codes, while mechanical engineers deal with piping codes and machine design. The consensus is to remain in Civil Engineering for a career in structural work, as CE provides a more direct path to this specialization.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Civil Engineering principles and practices
  • Familiarity with Mechanical Engineering concepts, particularly vibrations
  • Knowledge of structural engineering codes and regulations
  • Basic grasp of seismic wave behavior and its implications in engineering
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of Civil Engineers in structural calculations and building codes
  • Explore Mechanical Engineering courses related to vibrations and their applications
  • Investigate the differences between CE and ME in the context of structural engineering
  • Learn about seismic design principles and their relevance in large structures
USEFUL FOR

Civil Engineering students, Mechanical Engineering students, and professionals interested in structural engineering and seismic design.

NJDevilsFan26
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Hey,

I am currently a sophomore Civil Engineering student, however I'm not sure whether I should be studying civil or mechanical (based off what I want to get into). Basically, I want to specialize at some point in the structural aspect, however, I know each field branches off into this category.

I want to deal more so with large structures (buildings, bridges, etc) and I'm particularly interested in waves (seismic waves). My adviser told me to stay with CE, however, ME's actually take a class that deal with vibrations (I don't think CE's take any classes on this stuff in undergrad).

So, is this specific area of structural engineering more involved within the CE or ME field?
 
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Stay with civil engineering for structural work. The reason: structural calculations are PE stamped by civil engineers and tied to building codes. While mechanical engineering is tied to piping codes, boiler & pressure vessel code, and machine design.

BTW, structural engineering is a very interesting profession. I am a practicing mechanical engineer, but perform quite a bit of structural calculations.
 
Alright, cool. Thanks.
 

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