Structural Engineer Career Training Guide

Question: Structural Engineer? I have built a back porch roof structure over a patio on the back of my house, and the City of Columbus, OH has told me I need a permit (after I built it). I built this from a set of plans I found on the net from a repuitable site. Changing the plans slightly to fit my house. So I go down to the permit office only to have them tell me that the plans I have are not conventional framing and that I will need them approved by a structural engineer or architech and only then will they issue me a permit for inspection. My question is, how much is this going to cost? And also, do I have any other options with the City about what to do? I have about $5,000.00 wrapped up in this already, and I'm not looking forward to spending a bunch more money. Thanks for any help.

Answer: I have been in the same situation and I found that it is much easier and cheaper to invite the inspector over to my home for a one on one meeting. make sure to respect the inspector and ask him in the field what is the easiest fix that you and the city can agree upon. The main thing here is to not rattle the inspector or the city, as I can attest to their ability to make your life a living h---l. It was a hard lesson for me to learn as it cost me $1,500.00 Hope this helps ROSCoooooooooooooooooooooooo

Question: How can a structural engineer benefit from a laser cutter? I am an architect. I have millions reasons to use a laser cutter. However, I am trying to convince my partner who is a structural engineer to buy a laser cutter. How can a laser cutter help people to resolve engineering problem?

Answer: Does he/she make precise models for testing or establishing procedures for assembly or replacement? Could they be made for useful reasons if they are not being made now?

Question: If I complete a bachelor degree in mechanical engineering can i still become a structural engineer? If i complete my mechanical engineering degree and say i decide i want to take the path of a structural engineer is that still possible? Because arent there some courses you do after you complete your degree to get accreditation?

Answer: Many civil engineering companies hire engineers from other disciplines — Mechanical, Electrical, Engineering Technologists, etc. Such engineers often identify themselves informally as civil/structural engineers. Civil/structural engineering is different from most engineering fields because most civil engineers are licensed. Non-civil engineers can pass the first of the two Civil Engineering exams, (the "FE/EIT"), but they would have great difficulty passing the second exam (called the P.E. exam) unless they took courses for that purpose. Without the P.E. license and seal, engineers cannot sign engineering drawings or call themselves professional civil/structural engineers outside their own company. However, there's nothing stopping a Mechanical Engineer from getting licensed as a Professional Engineer in Mechanical Engineering, and working in a Civil/Structural Engineering company. He will be able to sign some drawing of a mechanical nature, but not generally structural/civil drawings unless he wants to expose his company to litigation when things go wrong.

Question: can a structural engineer and an architect own a firm together? can they own a firm together to design houses? would this combination make sense? would it make sense for a structural engineer to do this? would it make sense for an architect to do this?

Answer: The only way to know this is for a structural engineer, and an architect to discuss what they can contribute and then if the sum of their contributions is greater than their individual efforts, then a partnership is a good idea. Otherwise there is no reason they cannot work jointly on individual projects, if it helps. If you are thinking more of a particular person you want to work with, and one or both of you is planning to work towards the qualifications needed, then I think it is a bad idea. Get the skills first, and see where your talents lie, then find a partner that compliments your talent.

Question: which subjects should someone who wants to be a structural engineer take? i am choosing my G.C.S.E options and i want to be a structural engineer i know i can get an A* in maths, i have always been very strong at maths and im smart at science but not as much as maths, i got a C in my science mock test which isnt great so i might only get a B what subjects and what things can i do to become a structural engineer any tips are appricated. thanks

Answer: All Maths, and Physics.. Chemistry, and Statistics wouldn't hurt to help read reports and understand charts and such given should you ever read data on a material to be used

Question: What is a structural engineer or designer? Is there a difference between architectural and mechanical applications? What materials do structural designers use? Can a structural designer cross over into anything else? Are there any other engineering disciplines/fields that will utilize a structural designer?

Answer: The key difference between structural engineering and mechanical engineering is that a structural engineer works with stationary items, a mechanical engineer normally deals with moving items. The most obvious application of structural engineering is civil engineering. Most people prefer it if their houses don't move very much. I suppose you could say that architecture is a mixture of structural engineering and art.

Question: Is there an Architect who is also a structural engineer out there? I am looking for an Architect who is also a Structural Engineer, who can get involved with a development that I am doing this year. I am project managing the whole development, and would like to find someone, ideally a one man band, who can get involved immediately to discuss the project, and then to provide all drawings and calculations, followed by providing the necessary certification needed at stages along the way. This is to be a new build and consisting of half a dozen 1 bedroom apartments, which is to be the first of many to come.

Answer: Probably not. The two professions attract VERY different personalities. Architects are usually artists at heart; engineers are tinkering scientists. Why not hire a team? I suspect because of cost. I doubt that you will really save any money and you WILL increase the time needed to do the design.

Question: What are the chances that I would be able to to global Humanitarian work as a Structural Engineer? I would like to help out in developing countries in impoverished villages and towns. Do Structural Engineers get to do that?

Answer: It sounds like you might like Habitat for Humanity. Another possibility might be US AID. Check 'em both out. I was in the Peace Corps twice and never saw anything quite like you describe, but each country's programs are a little different. If you have a yearning to give something like this a try, by all means follow up on it. It can be the most amazing experience of your life. Good luck.

Question: Do I need an Architect or Structural Engineer? Hi, I want to remove/move a load bearing wall in my kitchen, with a view to having RSJ instead. I guess for insurance purposes that I need a professional to say what can and can't be done. Do I need to employ the services of an architect or a structural engineer, to produce plans/certificates, etc before I get a builder in to do the work? Many thanks.

Answer: You will need a Structural Engineer to assess the load that will be carried by the RSJ and will then advise you on the size to buy.

Question: Does structural engineer limit his negligence liability? The structural engineer contract we got says: "limit the Consultant's liability to the Client and to all construction contractors, lenders and tenants on the project, due to the Consultant's negligent acts, errors, and omissions, such that the total aggregate liability of the Consultant to all those named above shall not exceed the Consultant's fees or ten thousand dollars, whichever is greater." Does this makes sense? If the structural engineer is negligent and makes a mistake, the whole house could come down. And that's much more expensive then 10000 dollars.

Answer: I agree it does not make sense and yet it does. You call in a structural engineer to get to the bottom of an involved structural issue or to 'rubber stamp' a proposal therefore you need answers that may not be found through other professionals. However, Engineers are human and prone to make mistakes. Engineers have to depend upon info and data often times garnered from someone else. The Engineer's work product is only as good as the information provided or obtained through empirical observation. The exculpatory wording of the contract is to protect the Engineer against liability in the event of a mistake either on the engineer's part or some other party's part upon which the Engineer depends. This wording is similar to that of a Home Inspector's contract and is legal. However any attorney can find a loophole in the language and argue that the negligent act rises to gross negligence or wanton and intentional negligence and his/her liability is not protected at that point. I'M NOT AN ATTY nor an Engineer but have dealt with both for years and this wording is more common than you think regardless of the Engineer's C.V.

Question: To get a job as a structural engineer is a masters degree required? I have a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering, but I can't seem to get a structural engineering job.

Answer: Is your BSCE with structural emphasis? You do not need a MSCE to get a job as a structural engineer. You may need to start out as an intern or as a peon working for your local state highway department. They are always looking to college graduates to work as interns over the summer. Just keep plugging away with your resume and you will do fine. No graduate of engineering school is expected to know everything, as a matter of fact, all you get from your degree is a basic understanding of structual analysis and basic steel and concrete design. Also, you should forget about your LRFD steel design classes, because no one in the real world uses it. They all use ASD because it is much easier to apply and does not save any material for most structures you will be involved with. Good luck and do not give up hope.

Question: Is PHYSICS required to become a structural engineer? is physics needed because i havent studied it t gcse and therefore cant do it at Alevel...im doing maths as i am good at it but was just wandering can i still become a structural engineer without physics.

Answer: Maths is sufficient. Physics is highly recommended. Conditions depend on individual universities.

Question: whats the going rate for a structural engineer? need a structural engineer to visit my house to measure/calculate the rsj/timber frame to support floor above (have been told wall i am removing is a supporting wall)

Answer: I would expect that a structural engineering analysis for a typical single-family house would entail about 5 to 10 hours of consulting engineering time. You can figure at least $100 per hour, maybe double or more for one of the top engineering firms. They probably have a minimum expense - less than $1000 is not worth their time. Contact at least 3 structural engineers in your area to get estimates of your job. Check with your city or county building dept, local architects, local university (if they have an engineering program), or other sources for recommendations. Drive around your neighborhood, ask who is doing local architecture design work (custom homes or extensive remodelling) and get names of structural engineers. Check that the engineer has a current state license. No use to you if not current. Good luck.

Question: What does a structural engineer do? What exactly does a structural engineer do daily as part of their job? What sort of things would they work on?

Answer: A structural engineer is a kind of civil engineer who specializes in structures. They design steel, timber, and concrete buildings, walls, and other structures. Daily, they perform calculations on loads and sometimes visit job sites for inspections.

Question: Cost of knocking down load bearing internal wall and structural engineer? Hi I would like an idea of the cost of knocking down a load bearing internal wall, size of opening would be around 11ft. also just how expensive is hiring a structural engineer if anyone has had this work done and used an engineer, I would be grateful for any prices and experiences to give me a rough idea of costs involved. thanks

Answer: Rule of thumb is 4' opening 4x4, 6' opening 4x6, 8' opening 4x8 and so on. 11' opening 4x12 would probably work, but I would go 4x14 just to be safe. A 4x14 will hold a tile roof on that span. Make sure you do a safe job in shoring up the load before you cut the opening. An engineer will cost $250 to whatever he thinks he can charge. Two carpenters, half a day. Maybe $750 total. That includes materials. It doesn't include permits or engineering or modification of the load above. If the building is more than one story, get the engineer involved as it could get complex.

Question: What is more profitable in U.S.A,being a structural or a geotechnical engineer? I have a bachelor degree in civil engineering and want to pursue a master in structural engineering or in geo-engineering. I can't decide.I would really appreciate if an engineer could share his knowledge and experiences on this subject with me.Thanks!

Answer: I think you would have much better opportunities being a structural engineer. I have a friend that is a geotechnical engineer and his job opportunities are very limited. As a structural engineer, you would not be as limited, and have a much wider range of employment opportunities.

Question: Who is the top Structural Engineer on the planet today? Is this Engineer in Private Practice, a Professor at a University, or work for a Government? Bill F; Credentials, please.

Answer: me

Question: How much does a structural engineer earn annualy? A)how much does a stuctural engineer earn anually straight out of university and B) how much do they earn after say 5 years or so?

Answer: Go to: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes172051.htm http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm

Question: What exactly a Structural engineer do???They work outside or inside??? I want to be a structural engineer but I hate to work outside,I want to work in an office with air conditionated.

Answer: It's interesting that you say you want to be a structural engineer, but you don't know what a structural engineer does. Maybe what you mean is that you are thinking you might like to be a structural engineer if it doesn't mean doing anything you don't like. Much learning lies ahead of you in this life. A structural engineer designs structures and supervises or consults in the process of constructing them. Much of this work is done in air-conditioned offices with a staff of draftspersons and assistants. The structure could be a building, a bridge, an oil refinery, or a tunnel under the Atlantic Ocean. The structural engineer becomes intimately familiar with the building site, which may mean crawling in wet passages under ground or wading in a swamp in hip waders. When the structure is under construction, the engineer is often on the site making sure specifications are being followed and the structure fits together correctly. All kinds of weather, all kinds of political conditions (you could be in Iraq, remember). So it's an indoor-outdoor job, with a touch of Indiana Jones. Sounds like a tough decision for a man like yourself.

Question: if i become a structural engineer, what kind career path can i choose to better the environment? are structural engineers involved in producing renewable energy? or improving air/water quality?

Answer: Just do civil/environmental engineering instead. Or major in structural and go to work for an environmental engineering firm. My firm hired mechanical engineers, so you can do it. It's all about cleaning the air/water/soil directly on a daily basis. Can't ask for more than that...

Question: structural engineer costs to stabilize old house? How much might a structural engineer charge to raise several (3-4?)sagging areas of an 80-year-old house, including the center of the structure? It's a wood frame house, with no basement, of about 1500 square feet. Also, how much might an evaluation cost? The house is in Central Florida.

Answer: I believe Ernie A is on the right track about contractors, but he may misunderstand the roll that a qualified structural engineer will play in this type of renovation. A licensed structural engineer familiar with residential repairs should be either your first or second call. Absolutely no work should begin on structural portions of the home before an engineer has had a chance to evaluate the original condition. Prices will vary, but I doubt anyone will come out for less than $100 and it is more likely to be $150-350 for an observation and recommendation for repairs depending on how many problems and repairs are required. Number one, it will keep the contractor focused on fixing the actual problem, not just the symptoms of the problem. Secondly, and just as important, the jurisdiction where your home is will require that structural changes or improvements are approved (and possibly designed by) a licensed Florida engineer. The engineer will take on the liability of the repair, which means that he or she will do their best to give you a repair that meets or exceeds current building codes approved by your jurisdiction in Florida (such as the 2006 International Residential Code). The structural engineer will be one cost, several hundred for observation and stamped report (and possibly drawn repair details as well). From the date of observation I would expect to have a report back to you in about five to ten business days, depending on how busy and how complex etc. The contractor will be a much larger cost. Several thousand for foundation repairs and more for framing repairs or improvements is not uncommon. Getting several quotes is good, but making sure they are quoting for the exact same amount of work is also important. That's why having the structural engineer come out first makes a lot of sense. You can also have the engineer come back during the progress of the construction to observe the repairs and check to see if the work appears to conform to his repair recommendations. It would be rare to find an engineer and a contractor to work for the same company, it would be even more rare to find them to be the same person, but it does happen on occasion. It is almost a conflict of interest to have the engineer also be the contractor, it depends on how much you trust the engineer.

Question: Too old to become a civil/structural engineer? I am 30 years old and recently had to medically seperate from my previous profession. I have always wanted to be involved in engineering, but got distracted during college and pursued a different career. Now, 10 years later, I want to pursue it again. Would I have any trouble getting hired as a 35 year old engineering graduate? Any engineers in the civil/structural/mechanical fields that can comment on the job market for non-traditional engineering students my age?

Answer: You should go ahead and start registering for your courses. Your age will be a positive point in getting started as a fresh civil/structural engineer since you will be considered more mature and experienced in life. you will be more responsible than young fresh engineers. But make sure you got good GPA because that will play a rule during recruiting. Good Luck.

Question: Want to become a structural engineer. What should I do? I am currently working for a general contractor but am also taking classes towards my masters in structural engineering. I have a bachelor's in Construction Engineering. Should I continue working for a general contractor until I finish my masters degree or quit now and find a job with an engineering firm? I probably have about 2 years left until I get my masters.

Answer: Put together a resume. Ask around, during a break in class, what jobs your fellow students have. Send out resumes. Look at web sites with jobs for structural engineers. Never quit a job until you have a new one. Last thing--start studing for the state P.E. exam.

Question: How much does it cost to get the opinion of a structural engineer in England? Also a buildings insurance Q...? Got a problem with an inside wall. Do they just tend to be able to work out what the problem it just by looking? Also any ideas whether buildings insurance will cover repairs to inside walls if my prob is caused by structural movement from the outer wall? I am a leaseholder and inner walls aren't usually included by main insurance.

Answer: Number of issues here: 1. Buildings insurance will cover all structural issues. Unless you have covered your walls accidentally in something; then it's a buildings insurance issue. regardless of where the effects are seen. What is happening to the wall internally? Assuming your building is not 80+ yrs old, then there will be a cavity wall, with the inner leaf 'attached' to the outer leaf with ties. So movement from one will effect the other, so all structural. 2. Are you in a flat (A leaseholder suggests you may be), in which case the buildings insurance is part of the freeholders obligations, and you pay towards it as part of your maintenance charge. Get onto the freeholder or managing agent straight away. 3. The insurer will advise on who surveys it, they will have a panel of surveyors who will check the issue, as they will advise on the remedial work required. A structural engineer will be able to advise what the issue is, so would a building surveyor. You can find one on the RICS website www.rics.org, or a structural engineer at the institute of S.E's http://www.istructe.org/Pages/default.aspx They will cost around £250.00; check out your yellow pages and get some quotes. They cost this much because they are professionals, they have insurance that covers them should their advice be incorrect and proven to be negligent. A builder is not necessarily qualified to give advice, and may also be looking to get some work, so be careful of those suggestions. As a leaseholder, in a flat, you will only carry contents insurance (I presume) so this will not be much use to you. If you think the issue is structural, the freeholder MUST deal with it. Get on to them, via the managing agent asap. Then let the insurers deal with the rest. Good luck

Question: Any suggestions for a great Civil/Structural Engineering reference book to give a new engineer? As a mechanical engineer I was given the Machinery's Handbook as a desk reference and it's been the most used book in my library since graduating. Can anyone suggest a similarly quintessential reference for new civil engineers?

Answer: The PE Reference Book http://www.amazon.com/Civil-Engineering-Reference-Manual-Exam/dp/1888577665 I found this very useful and covers pretty much everything in Civil Engineering The Steel Manual http://www.amazon.com/Steel-Construction-Manual-13th-Book/dp/156424055X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1229614591&sr=1-1 but if he got his degree in Structural engineering he should have this book already since it was required at my school for structural classes. Any ACI or ASCE book or reference manual.

Question: How satisfying is it to be an architect or structural engineer? This might be a strange question But how satisfying must it be to see a building that you designed, or even to use it. I always wonder what architects, or the engineers behind them think or feel like when theyre using a building they designed, like a bank, or a courthouse or something.

Answer: Like so many professions, there are positive and negative aspects that make it rewarding and challenging. The first thing to realize is that there is never one person who is responsible for an entire building. Sure there's a lead architect, but there's also a lead structural engineer, lead mechanical engineer, lead electrical engineer, etc. It takes a considerable amount of experience to attain that position. Plus there's all the junior engineers/architects. So it's important to realize that a building design is always done as a team. Like so many other things, you can't credit a single person for the success of a system For buildings, that team also consists of all the project managers and contractors. Without quality input from these people the building will not be a success. So, for ALL of these people, there is likely a sense of pride for their involvement in a building project. For the designers, there can also be stresses that come with involvement. If something goes wrong with the building, who will be blamed, for example. Also, the reality is that the construction industry is a fast paced one that often requires designers to put in a lot of hours. Your overall happiness as a designer depends on how the balance of these elements coincide with your overall personal goals.

Question: How long does it take to become a structural engineer, and what degrees are needed? What about mechanical engineers? In your opinion, which are better and why? Thanks :)

Answer: A degree in engineering (including mechanical and civil engineering) typically takes (at least) 4 years. The degree needed is a B.Eng or B.Sc in engineering from an accredited school. You would have to enroll in, and subsequently graduate from a mechanical engineering program to be considered a mechanical engineer (and same idea for civil engineering). Neither one is 'better' than the other (why would anybody chose the worse one otherwise?). It's a matter of personal interest really. That being said, mechanical engineering is broader (i.e. covers more material) than civil engineering.

Question: How many years does it take to become a structural engineer? How long does it take in Canada and what grades must you have in high school?

Answer: In the US engineering degrees are usually a 4-5 year degree, depending on what level math classes you've accomplished going into college. As for your grades; as long as you have grades high enough to get into the college whose Engineering school you'd like to attend, you'll be able to take classes in the program. Most engineering students have good grades in math and science, as that is the area where you'll be taking many classes your first couple years. If you can, test out of some of the lower level math classes so that you can start with Calc or higher in college. This will allow you to take more classes in your major earlier on... most college "major" classes in engineering will require a credit in calculus, or at least pre-calc, before you can enroll in the class. Start looking at colleges that you're interested in and find out their requirements for admission; every college is different!

Question: How much does it cost for a structural engineer to come inspect a home? It is 1900 square feet.

Answer: The going rate for the firm i work for in Greenville, NC. Is $120/hr for a licensed engineer to go out and inspect the footings before and after concrete is poured. As far as inspecting structural integrity of an existing building, i am pretty sure that 120 is right around there as well.

Question: I was wondering what is required to become a structural engineer and what the job entails? I'm hestitating between mechanical civil or strucutral engineeri think structural would interest me the most but it apperas to not pay very well

Answer: Hi there. I'm a doctorate student in structural engineering. Only a few colleges actually have a structural engineering degree (UC San Diego comes to mind), as most colleges list it as a discipline in the civil engineering department. So at most universities, to become a structural engineer you will major in civil engineering (which contains multiple disciplines). You will take courses in math, physics (statics and dynamics), mechanics of materials, structural analysis, and structural design (also probability and statistics depending on what you want to do). In other words, you learn how to calculate the various forces that structures are subjected to, you learn about the properties of materials from which structures are designed, and you iterate back and forth using these two disciplines and different aids (computers, manuals, etc.) to design a structure such that it is both safe and economically feasible. So for example if I know the geometry of a structure, I can estimate the loads (using design codes) and then calculate the forces in each member (beams, columns, etc.). Using these forces, I can design a steel or concrete or wood member, etc. to withstand the forces. As I said above, civil engineering also contains other disciplines, i.e. transportation, ocean engineering, water resource management, wastewater management, and construction management. It is broad and not all of them are related. In general though, at most universities you will be required to take courses in all of these disciplines, with some free will your junior and senior years to take technical electives in the disciplines of your liking. As far as mechanical engineering, it is similar to structural engineering except you also deal a lot more with dynamic systems (systems in motion, machines). You also take more courses in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, etc. It is sometimes known as the "liberal arts" of engineeering, as it gives you a very broad background over just about every engineering mechanics discipline imaginable. If you have further questions just let me know. Generally, you will start out above 40 with a bachelors in structural, and around 55 or 60 with a masters. With more experience and a professional license, you can increase your salary substantially.

Question: What must I be talented and interested in, in order to be a Civil / and or Structural engineer? What kind of positions would i hold in a company if i graduate with a civil and structuring engineer degree? like what would i actually be in charge of? do i do more designing work or overlooking work? wat do i actually do?

Answer: Short term talents - ask a lot of questions of architects, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and your bosses, be able to listen to them and follow direction. No, you won't be in charge of anything, but supervision isn't someone standing over you cracking a whip. They have work to do themselves and it isn't staring at the back of your head. Organization is also a skill, as well as the ability to present your thoughts clearly. Long term talents - communication skills come in both when dealing with your superiors and your eventual underlings. You also need to be able to communicate both with managers (who are business types with a fair contempt for science) and architects, who don't necessarily want to hear an hour of calculations to prove why you can't build it that way.

Question: Who earns much computer science grad or structural engineer? I like to know current salary of graduates so that i will join the field to study.Also which is tough,or interesting,etc if you happen to knew them. I am good in Math,calculations,I feel computer literate well. Please compare: 1.Computer Science/software engineering... 2. Civil Engineering/structural/hydraulics/foundations... with other study disciples. thanks

Answer: we cant say one of them,as it depends on the persons ability,intelligence and hardwork

Question: what does a structural engineer do? structural engineering for like roller coasters? would you half to be architecture to design them? what coures in high school would some on half to take?

Answer: In high school take honors math and physics.

Question: How much does a civil/structural engineer earn in Canada (Toronto) after about 5 years of experience.? Also, how would the pay increase if they possessed a Masters of Engineering or MBA degree as well ? Thanks for your time.

Answer: I can't answer your first question. The MBA degree was originally created because people were promoted to managerial positions, and often they did not know how to manage, although they were good engineers, or scientists, or factory workers. Companies needed managers who could understand what the workers were saying, and managers without the factory floor experience often did not understand the people they supervised. Business schools responded by creating the MBA degree. It is a general degree designed to train student to enter any area of management up to CEO. MBA programs accept students with any undergraduate degree. The MBA is in contrast to the MS degree which trains students to reach higher levels of knowledge in their specialty so that they can serve as better staff and researchers, with no intention of becoming high level managers. It's possible that the engineer with 5 years of experience getting a new MBA may have to start at less pay than he left, but after a few year would probably catch up and exceed the engineer's salary. It is also possible that the MBA returns to his previous employer at a much higher salary than when he left. Before you decide on an MBA program explore the Internet for information on available programs. There is a lot of information available in free public service sites. Some sites are limited to specific countries, such as Germany, UK, or Australia. Some list a small number of select schools, while others may include more than 2,000 MBA programs listed worldwide. You can find the program that best fits you. You can search for programs by location (US, Europe, Far East, etc.), by concentration (finance, marketing, aviation management, health management, accounting, etc.), by type of program (full-time, distance learning, part-time, executive, and accelerated), and by type of degree (MBA, MS, Ph.D). In some cases you can select your own criteria and preferences to get a list of universities that satisfy your needs. You can find data on entrance requirements, program costs, program characteristics, joint degrees such as MBA/JD, and much more. Some sites have links to the schools' web sites, or provide email addresses to contact schools of your choice, and send them pre-applications. You can find lists of top schools ranked by various periodicals or ranked by starting salaries of graduates, GMAT scores, and other criteria. Generally you should stay away from any sites that require you to pay to get information or that promise to find scholarships for you or ensure acceptance into a program. Before you provide any personal information to a site, be sure to read their privacy policy and make sure they are not harvesting email addresses for sale.

Question: What subjects must I excel in order to become a structural engineer? I am in high school what subjects must i take?

Answer: To become a structural engineer you should excel at high school math classes and sciences (specifically physics). You will need to get a undergraduate degree in civil engineering and take electives in structural design and materials for contruction. A Master's degree is strongly recommended for structural engineering because it is one area of civil engineering where the calculations are very important. To qualify for a Master's you will need to maintain high grades (over 80% university average). Here is a link to a civil engineering curriculum guide: http://www.civil.uwaterloo.ca/current_students/under_courses.html Generally you will need to work for 4 years after graduation to become an accredited engineer. In the US I think there are exams that must be passed as well. You will need to work with a supervising engineer for your first few years. Understand that you will probably be in your late 20s before you get to design anything really interesting. If you're enthusiastic and interested in the subjects then you can have a very rewarding career. One nice thing about civil is that the jobs are unlikely to be outsourced and there is potential for working in different countries.

Question: where can i get free advice from a structural engineer? I'm Designing a peice of furniture and have reached a problem with its structure. I need some advice by some one with knowledge of matterial strengths to advise me on joining two sheets of material. Can any one help? I will be more specific then. I'm trying to join two sheets of 18mm thick poplar plywood board together at 90 degrees. it needs to be mega strong but not be any thicker than the 18mm. I thought of dovetail joints but i can add components to make it stronger. additional components could be used.

Answer: Structural Engineers deal with bridges and buildings. If you want to connect two pieces of wood, talk to a carpenter.

Question: Does anyone know the price to hire a structural engineer? Do they charge by the square foot or by the job? I am doing an 896 sq.ft. addition to my home and architects are so expensive. I have already designed it using an architectual program I purchased. Just need someone to draw blueprints.

Answer: The charge in Dallas TX is about 120 an hour. I work for the largest engineering firm in the world and we do small projects all the time. Contact a local engineer and get some bids. Most will charge by the hour and if they are good it wont take them long for a small project like that. If they are able to use your design it might expedite the process but sometimes those computer architect designs make things that look great but they are almost impossible to build.

Question: why did Michael Scofield from prison break become a structural engineer? He said told the warden in an episode but i forgot. Can anyone help?

Answer: He was already one. He used that ability to help get Lincoln out of Prison with the tatoo's he had on his body. edit actually what happened was the warden knew he was one and let him have 3 days to make the structure of the taj mahal for his wife The warden just knew he was one and gave him 3 more days to stay there if he helped him with his structure. This in turn gave him more time to help to rescue Lincoln

Question: if i want to become a structural engineer which qualafications should i get ? obviously i know i must get maths and physics but how many GCSE's are impressive and which A-levels should i be doing ?

Answer: i don't know what do you mean about GCSE's but you should finish these subjects:- -calculas A,B and C -linear -differential equations -physics A and B -STATICS -DYNAMICS Thats all and good luck.

Question: Where should I go as an undergraduate Structural Engineer? I am studying at The University of Leeds and have the option of going to California, Hong Kong or Australia for a year. Where is best to go with a view to return after graduating? Thanks.

Answer: be adventurous. HK. totally different way of doing things. u will learn a lot. your experience will be so enriched. then u can cross over to china shenzhen and learn more much more. a whole new world awaits u and u will be a better engineer. [ u may not want to return] be ready for the unexpected! be cool. the other 2 places is as the same as leeds.

Question: I am knocking through my wall between the kitchen/dining room do I need a structural engineer? also how much do they cost & does anyone know a good one in oxford? I am also going to knock through the back external wall so I can put in some french doors.

Answer: You can work out whether it's load bearing by the direction of the floorboards in the room above (the joists run at 90 degree angle to the boards). The external wall will need to have building regs etc so I wouldn't touch that if I were you.