Both mechanical and structural engineering are involved in the design and construction of buildings, but which is more important? Structural engineering is responsible for the safe design of a structure and all supporting elements. Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing the systems that will support the structure. Often, mechanical engineers will collaborate with a structural engineer on certain projects so that the two can work together to achieve best results. While each engineer has their own specialties, both types of engineers must rely on the information provided by the other to ensure that the structure is safe for human habitation and travel.
When comparing mechanical or structural engineering, it's important to remember that structural engineering takes into consideration the relationship between materials and the total structure. Because mechanical engineers must design and construct structures from the ground up, they are responsible for deciding what materials are safest to use and where to locate them. In many ways, structural engineering is more similar to civil engineering than it is to mechanical engineering.
Many mechanical engineering programs offer students the opportunity to focus on one or the other. Structural engineering bachelor's degree programs often require students to complete two years of laboratory work, including internships. They will also have to complete part of the degree program in order to specialize in the field of structural engineering. Civil engineering programs often only require students to complete a four-year bachelor's degree. Some programs require a two-year bachelor's degree plus a year of study in order to specialize.
Civil engineering focuses on the design of buildings and bridges. Much of this work is done on an actual construction site. Civil engineers are responsible for creating plans for new structures and modifications to existing ones. They must also create plans for environmental considerations and solutions to any problems that might be faced by the developers of the projects. Civil engineers are not limited to building construction, they are also responsible for creating plans for the maintenance and safety of natural resources.
As was mentioned above, civil engineers are able to perform many different duties. These duties include planning the construction of buildings and bridges and determining the safety of the project. In addition to this they may also be involved with any alterations to existing structures. One of the biggest differences between a mechanical engineer and a structural engineer is that the mechanical engineers must actually use their calculations in the construction process.
The typical courses taken as part of mechanical engineering programs require students to learn about fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mechanical engineering, and thermodynamics. Students also learn about finite and dynamic structures as well as their properties. It is common for mechanical engineers to take courses that provide them with a general understanding of electricity, magnetism, and control systems.
On average, a mechanical engineer has two to five years of training before starting their job. Once they have their bachelor's degree, they can start looking into civil engineering careers. A bachelor's degree can be obtained through a variety of ways. Most people get their degrees by attending an accredited university and completing either an associate's or bachelor's degree course in civil engineering or one of a number of technical subjects.
A mechanical engineering career can be challenging but rewarding. The pay is good, you can work at any type of establishment and you usually are able to make your own hours. Some engineers begin their careers as line workers and after earning their bachelor's degree, move into a permanent mechanical engineering career. Others begin as an employee and later apply to pursue a mechanical engineering career. Many engineers choose to continue their education by obtaining additional training or by participating in refresher courses offered by community colleges and vocational schools.
