Structural or Mechanical Engineer

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

Quick Version - Is it possible to work as a structural civil engineer with a mechanical engineering degree.? Or

Long Version - I want to be an engineering student. RIght now, I am really interested in Mechanical Engineeirng. But i’ve been told to keep my eye out for other majors. Right now, only engineering and architecture seem to hold my intrest. So when I told my counsleor, she reccomened Structural Civil Engineering. While i don’t love the career, it seems like the most fun and enjoyable career I have run into. But at the same time, I want to learn about things like thermodynamics and mechanics and mechanical engineering topics.

While i like Structural Civil Engineering, I also want to be flexible to move to another field like mechanical, material, aerospace, or industrial engineering.

Questions
Can a mechanical engineering degree let you change careers? Can you be a structual engineer with a Mechanical engineering degree? Are their other engineering careers that allow you to work outside? Or on Building?

Thank you in advance for your responses.

Also I am a high school Sophomore / Junior this summer.

2

While i’m at it, would you reccomend getting a civil engineering masters degree?

3

You might consider architectural engineering. It encompasses elements of both structural and mechanical engineering.
I don’t think you’d have an easy time working as a structural engineer with a degree in mechanical engineering. Structural engineers need PE licensure in their field.

4

Do you think even a apprenticeship is possible if i have a masters in civil engineering? Because I know you can’t work as one until you do a 4-5 year residency, and then taking the Professional Engineering Exam. But do structural engineers have their own exam that is different from other engineers?

5

It might be only three years to a PE license if you have a masters degree in some states, but a masters in structural engineering wold change things dramatically. You’d usually have to take prereqs before enrolling though like structural analysis and steel/concrete classes.