Structural engineer : Entry requirements

The career of a structural engineer is open to graduates of civil or structural engineering. Those with a degree in another engineering or science discipline may also be able to enter the career but it could take longer and you may be limited as to how far you can progress.

Graduate structural engineers work towards the professional qualifications of Associate-Member and Chartered Member with The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) . To become an Associate-Member (AMIStructE) you must have a degree that is accredited by IStructE. A list of accredited courses is available from the Joint Board of Moderators . Some equivalent qualifications may also be accepted but you will need to contact the Institution directly to find out.

To progress on to become a Chartered Member (MIStructE) with IStructE, you will need to have obtained an accredited Masters qualification or equivalent. A list of relevant courses is available at the JBM website. Some graduates will study for the accredited Masters degree before beginning work as a structural engineer so that they can enter the profession and begin worked towards chartered status straightaway. Others enter at the lower level and study for a Masters qualification while working. Some employers may help with this and may provide study leave and help with funding.

Becoming chartered takes a substantial amount of time and involves a period of professional development followed by a review process. Once chartership has been achieved however, it is a demonstration of a high level of professional competence and allows for the potential for higher earnings and promotion to more senior or specialised roles.

Entry without a degree is possible if the candidate holds a national diploma-level qualification in structural/civil engineering or equivalent. However, they will only be able to progress to a Technician Member (TIStructE) with the Institution of Structural Engineers. Further qualifications will have to be gained if they wish to progress onto the Associate or Chartered memberships.

Those who wish to work as a structural engineer will need to show evidence of the following:

• good analytical and problem-solving skills;
• strong mathematical ability;
• computer literacy;
• good grasp of physics;
• good three-dimensional conceptual skills;
• excellent oral and written communication skills;
• good diagrammatic skills;
• teamworking ability;
• excellent attention to detail;
• the ability to liaise well with professionals from other disciplines;
• an interest in the design and structure of buildings.

Relevant work experience and placements can be useful for developing the required skills and for demonstrating a good level of competence in job applications. It can also be useful for building contacts and networking which may lead to future job opportunities. Degree courses that offer a year in industry can also be helpful in developing contacts.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.