CS to Civil/Structural Engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the transition from a Computer Science (CS) background to pursuing a graduate degree in Civil Engineering, particularly focusing on the feasibility and requirements for making such a shift. Participants explore the implications of licensing, accreditation, and personal interests in engineering fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to transition from CS to Civil Engineering and inquires about the possibility of pursuing a master's degree without obtaining a bachelor's degree in engineering.
  • Another participant suggests applying for a master's program in Civil Engineering, noting that the individual may need to address any missing background knowledge.
  • Concerns are raised about the necessity of obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license, with some participants indicating that a bachelor's degree in engineering is typically required for licensure, which may vary by state.
  • It is mentioned that while a PE license is important in Civil Engineering, there are limitations to what one can do without it, and some states may offer alternative paths to licensure based on experience.
  • One participant highlights that a civil engineering PhD may not suffice for signing off on plans without an accredited degree, and mentions that master's programs may begin to receive accreditation in the future.
  • Another participant suggests considering mechanical or aerospace engineering as alternatives, emphasizing the relevance of solid mechanics and the potential utility of a computational background.
  • Several participants reflect on their personal experiences and preferences, discussing the importance of hands-on work in engineering versus theoretical computer science.
  • One participant advises gaining practical experience in the field before making a definitive decision about pursuing Civil Engineering.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the necessity of a PE license and the requirements for pursuing a master's degree in Civil Engineering. There is no consensus on the best path forward, and multiple competing views remain regarding the transition from CS to Civil Engineering.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the evolving landscape of accreditation for master's programs and the potential implications for future graduates. The discussion also reflects uncertainty regarding state-specific licensing requirements and the varying importance of a PE license in different engineering fields.

Llama77
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I used to be a Computer engineering student and was a bit behind in math, so I went through the majority of my CS course without doing the EE. In 1 more year I will graduate with a CS degree.

I don't like the EE stuff to be honest, but like the other more mechanics type engineering. I don't want a Computer Engineering degree, I am fine with the CS. What I now really want to do is Civil. I saw a Civil friend of mine in school doing Structural analysis and I really liked it.

So what I am asking is with my new interest, is there a way to do Civil in Graduate school, instead of having to go back for another 4 year degree, which I really don't want to do.
 
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Yeah, just apply for a masters program in Civil. You might have to make up expected background that you're missing.
 
You should look into what is necessary to becoming a professional engineer in your chosen field. It may be more important for work as a civil engineer than in some other areas. It is possible that you could never be a licensed PE without a B.S. engineering degree. I think this varies by state, but I am not sure.
 
BN is correct on all counts, including the part he's not sure about.

Getting a PE license is not always necessary, even for Civil. It does however pose limits if you don't have one, and more so in Civil Engineering than other fields. Basically, there are legal and insurance constraints such that you need the license to sign off on certain things, to legally open your own engineering firm, to use the title engineer, and so forth. It does vary a lot. Some states will give you a license based on experience or leave the PE exam more or less open access, but many require completion of an accredited B.S. program.

There's still plenty you can do without the license. It is something you need to evaluate for yourself.
 
A PE is important in civil engineering, and you need an accredited degree to get it. Up until this past year, a department could only accredit one of its programs, and for obvious reasons the BS degree would be accredited. Someone could hold a civil engineering PhD and still not be able to sign off plans. So, in time masters programs will start being accredited, you might want to look into it.

However, mechanical or aerospace might be something to look into, as solid mechanics is a big part of the curriculum. Your computational background would probably be of great use in there too, especially at the graduate level.
 
ekrim said:
Up until this past year, a department could only accredit one of its programs, and for obvious reasons the BS degree would be accredited. ... So, in time masters programs will start being accredited, you might want to look into it.

I hadn't heard that, and it's a rather interesting bit of news. Thank you. I'll have to fire off an e-mail to see how our College of Engineering is dealing with this...:biggrin:
 
Asphodel said:
I hadn't heard that, and it's a rather interesting bit of news. Thank you. I'll have to fire off an e-mail to see how our College of Engineering is dealing with this...:biggrin:

Here's an FAQ from ASCE on the issue:
http://www.asce.org/professional/PDLA-FAQ-040108.pdf

It's good news for the field hoppers out there.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
I think I've just noticed that I am good with my hands. I like designing Physical system, rather than theoretical computer ones.
 
Llama77 said:
I think I've just noticed that I am good with my hands. I like designing Physical system, rather than theoretical computer ones.

I'd try to get a taste for the field before you make any rash decisions though. you really can't a field until you've done it. I was in civil engineering for a year in college because I liked building things, but it wasn't what I thought, and was more of an "itch" I had to scratch.
 

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