<p>From what I understand, architectural engineering is focused on construction. From what I have heard, construction isn't doing so hot right now. </p>
<p>But I've always had an interest in the construction of houses and buildings and would be ecstatic if I could get a job working in that area. Are the jobs out there? Would it be possible to find an architectural engineering job?</p>
<p>If I were to go through with this I would have to transfer and would possibly, at most, get into 100K in debt...Would it make sense to just major in civil, specialize in architecture, and get internships in that area?</p>
<p>I just really want to know if this is possible before I continue on into chemical engineering with a looming "What if..." in the back of my mind.</p>
<p>The construction industry is a rollercoaster in the sense that there are constantly dips and peaks in employment that vary in hand with the economy. But if your passion is there, then I think it’s better to study what makes you happy, rather than be too calculative and go study something that you aren’t as passionate about, even if it would lead to better employment prospects. You may end up dropping out or you may end up working on something that you hate and that’ll cost you even more than the last degree, when you start looking for a second degree or a totally different sector for work.</p>
<p>Civil and mechanical engineering (focus on structures and strength of materials) might also give you some of the background that you require, while maybe being more general degrees.</p>
<p>I was an architectural engineering major. I chose that because I knew I was interested in BUILDINGS. I didn’t want to take general civil courses in drainage, road design, etc. I’m still glad I went that route, even with the up-and-down economy.</p>
<p>You could also major in civil and pick all of your electives in structural design and/or construction management. It really depends on the particular school. You could call and ask to speak to a professor about your options. (That’s how my husband ended up going to my school - he called up UT and they connected him to my dad, who encouraged him to come to UT. So my dad knew my husband before I even met him.)</p>
<p>Thank you guys for the information. It is something that I’m really interested in. Much more than chemical engineering. ChemE is something I can see myself “getting through”, but structural engineering is something that I would enjoy doing. </p>
<p>I looked into my school’s CE department and they do have a structural concentration. I’ll concentrate in structural and try to get some experience that will allow me a foot in. I’m so of wary of this decision. Chemistry has always been a default for me.</p>
<p>I’ll see how this year goes.</p>