Structural Engineering

Structural engineering is a sub-discipline of civil engineering in which structural engineers are trained to design the 'bones and joints' that create the form and shape of human-made structures. In basic terms, structural engineers design the bones and muscles of structures. They are involved in designing the structures and examining the strength, rigidity, and stability of buildings and non-building structures. They also ensure that the structures are sturdy and can endure all weather conditions. Candidates who wish to flourish in a career in this field have to pursue an interlinking or specialization course after completing Class 12th. Admission to this course is done through entrance exams that are conducted at the national and state levels. However, candidates can also take direct admission into colleges that offer seats based on merits. Entrance exams like JEE Main, BITSAT, JEE Advanced, SRMJEE, KEAM, etc. are conducted to grant admission to this engineering course.

Structural Engineers can work in commercial and public sectors such as Tata Projects, Reliance, Wipro, Gammon India, and other leading companies. They can work as construction designers and further progress to project managers after gaining experience. The top structural engineering colleges in India are IIT Madras, Delhi Technological University, IIT Roorkee, NIT Trichy, Anna University, and others.

Quick Facts About Structural Engineering

• In Structural Engineering, students learn the basic principles of structural analysis which involves examining the strength, stability, and durability of structures.
• In India, the demand for structural engineers is high as every construction requires skilled engineers to maintain its durability and quality.
• Millions of people's lives are directly impacted by the work they do as Structural Engineers, which ranges from bridges to skyscrapers.
• Structural Engineering is a course designed for candidates who are strong in mathematics and science skills. 

The focus of structural engineering, a specialty within the discipline of civil engineering, is on the system behavior of structures. It is a branch of engineering that deals with the study and design of buildings to withstand varied loads placed on them throughout their predicted lives. If you are intending to pursue this course, check the details given below:

Studying this domain of Structural Engineering will lead you to a progressive career as the growth and job opportunities in the field have increased. A structural engineer not only plays a major role in the growth and development of nations but also brings innovative solutions for issues. As the population is growing, the need for buildings is increasing, which implies more career prospects for structural engineers. The following are the major reasons why you should pursue a structural engineering course:

Provide Solutions in Complex Projects

Structural Engineers work on a wide range of complicated structures. These can involve both new and old structures, and engineers must collaborate with architects to bring the concept to reality. Structural Engineers are in charge of designing and analyzing material handling systems, as well as researching the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly building methods. As a result, structural engineers are an essential part of the building process and must overcome any hurdles the project may encounter.

Career Growth

One of the most significant advantages of pursuing a career in structural engineering is the opportunity to create work that has a meaningful and enduring influence. Engineers help shape the world we live in by constructing new walkways, and higher structures, and restoring buildings. As a result, there are numerous chances for professional development and the acquisition of new skills. After working as a structural engineer, experts can advance to senior positions in the hierarchy or become project managers.

Constitute in Making World a Safer Place

Structural engineers ensure the safety of all structures and infrastructure and assist society in addressing the most pressing issues, such as climate change and disaster aid. They create bridges to assist communities in poor countries to break free from isolation. In addition, they research ways to make structures withstand earthquakes, storms, and other natural calamities.

Problem-Solving Role

A structural engineer's job requires problem-solving ability, from enhancing buildings and guaranteeing the safety of all structures to applying cutting-edge technologies throughout construction. These experts will have the opportunity to encounter a wide range of individuals and collaborate with them to achieve project objectives. Fighting climate change is one of the most essential ways to give structural engineers a chance to address challenges.

Structural Engineering Scope in India

Structural Engineering concepts are combined with the architects and service engineers to create an outstanding structure. The main job of structural engineers is to make sure that the building is made as per the safety standards, consider the stability, strength, and stiffness of these constructions, and follow the criteria of the government. The following are the major reasons why structural engineering has a scope in India: 

Renovation of Buildings

Earlier, the buildings in India were not made as per safety standards, therefore many buildings, bridges, roads, and dams in India are going through the renovation process, which subsequently increases the demand for structural engineers. 

Funding and Procedures 

The scope of this course in India is massive as India is a developing country, therefore, several qualified structural engineers are required who will work and aid in the development of the country. As there is an ever-increasing need for the construction of new structures. New methods would assist to reduce costs and increase job opportunities in India. 

Going Green 

As technology advances, the environment suffers the most. As a result, new approaches should be created in such a way that they benefit the environment by lowering energy usage. Many construction companies in India are adopting the going green technique, and to work on these projects well educated and trained structural engineers are required. 

Zero Waste Methods and Sustainable Materials

Both of these two are novel approaches for decreasing the trash created by the Indian industry.  Modular construction methods aid in the construction process. To work with these techniques and at the same time, structural engineers are needed as they construct safely, as evidenced by seismic activity in earthquake-prone zones.

Career Opportunities 

A structural engineer in India can earn between INR 4-8 LPA. Candidates pursuing this degree get opportunities to work in top companies like TATA, Reliance Limited, TCS, and others in India.

Quick Link: M.Tech Structural Engineering Colleges in India

An online structural engineering degree program is a course of study that enables students to obtain a degree in structural engineering by studying online. In an online structural engineering degree program, students learn about various topics, such as how to analyze structures, how to design them, how to select materials, and how to manage the construction of such structures. The Online Structural Engineering Degree Coursework aims to provide students with a strong foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications. Some of the essential components of an online structural engineering degree program include:

• Basic Engineering Courses: These courses cover fundamental principles in mathematics, physics, and engineering mechanics.
• Structural Analysis and Design: In this course, students learn how to analyze and design structures using principles of mechanics, materials science, and structural engineering codes and standards.
• Materials Science: This course helps students understand the properties and behavior of materials used in construction.
• Construction Management: This course provides insights into project planning, budgeting, and scheduling, essential for successful structural engineering projects.
• CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Software Skills: Students learn how to use software like AutoCAD, Revit, or other relevant tools that are often used in the industry.
• Capstone Projects: Many programs include a capstone project where students apply their knowledge to a real-world engineering problem or design project.

Both Structural Engineering and Civil Engineering are related to building and construction, yet there is a huge difference between them. So, if you are planning to pursue any of these engineering courses, get the clear differences between both of them by referring to the information given below:

There are many undergraduate, postgraduate, and certificate courses available in the Structural Engineering domain. The different types of courses in this domain are given below:

Structural Engineering is not offered at the undergraduate level in colleges in India. However, they can be pursued as an integrated course at the undergraduate level in a related engineering degree. The course is also offered as part-time and distance learning. Check out the types of structural engineering courses available in India:

Candidates who want to take admission into this course should go through the eligibility criteria before applying. The eligibility criteria consist of educational qualification, subjects, minimum marks, age limit, etc. Check the structural engineering eligibility criteria given below:

Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate Degree

• Students must have passed their 10+2 or equivalent exams with a minimum combined score of 45% in mathematics, physics, and chemistry
• Students with civil engineering diplomas are also eligible for this programme
• The student should meet the requirements listed above as well as qualify for the required entrance exams

Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Degree

• Students must have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with at least a 55% overall average score
• This course is also open to students with a master's degree in environmental science

Required Skill Set for Structural Engineering

Having the correct set of skills will enable structural engineering professionals to flourish in their careers. Along with expertise in academics, a candidate must have certain interpersonal skills to earn a lucrative salary. The following are the skills required for structural engineering: 

Creative Thinking - Coming up with new ideas that are both efficient and cost-effective is an important skill that a structural engineer must possess as it benefits the firm in a variety of ways. Students enrolled in this course are encouraged to think creatively and come up with innovative ideas.

Structural Analysis - Candidates must be experts in analyzing the building and its pieces structurally so that future flaws in these structures can be avoided. Analyze the detailed structure of the building using computer-aided design and analysis. 

Supervision - This entails paying close attention to the construction process to ensure that each part is properly positioned.

Management - Managing a full team of workers is a difficult endeavor because each member has their particular viewpoint. As a result, bringing the team together and working together is an important ability that a structural engineer must have. 

Analyzing - As Structural Engineers, candidates should be proficient in examining the many processes in the construction process to ensure that the structures are stress-free and resistant to weather fluctuations.

Apart from these, a candidate must also have proficiency in the following: 

• Time management 
• Ability to manage a budget
• Excellent aptitude in mathematics, information technology, and science
• Communication skills
• Construction processes, regulatory regulations, and health and safety knowledge are all required
• Coordination 
• Team building

There are several national and state-level engineering exams conducted to offer admission to various colleges and universities in India. Following are the major structural engineering entrance exams:

JEE Main

National Testing Agency conducts the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE Main) at a national level to select qualified candidates for admission to various top-tier engineering colleges in India. Candidates who pass JEE Main are eligible for admission to IITs, NITs, and other colleges that recognize JEE Main scores.

JEE Advanced

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay conducts the JEE Advanced exam to provide admission to India’s prestigious engineering institute; IIT/ Candidates who pass JEE Main are eligible for JEE Advanced, on the basis of which they are admitted to IITs and other prestigious universities.

BITSAT

The Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test, a national-level admission test, is administered by BITS Pilani. BITSAT is held annually to award admission to B.E., B.Pharm, M.Sc, and other courses offered at BITS campuses. On average, 3 lakh candidates take the BITSAT each year.

MHT CET

The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell administers the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test, often known as MHT CET,  an entrance test used to shortlist students for admission to undergraduate Engineering and Pharmacy programmes at various Maharashtra colleges. In Maharashtra, around 400 colleges recognize MHT CET results for admission to their different Engineering and Pharmacy programmes.

SRMJEE

SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) holds the SRM Joint Engineering Entrance Examination (SRMJEEE) every year for admission to B.Tech programmes. SRMJEEE is a university-level computer-based (online) test that serves as a single entrance examination for all SRM Group colleges and universities situated in Ramapuram, Kattankulathur, NCR - Ghaziabad, Vadapalani, Amravati, and other parts.

Besides these, there are other several structural engineering entrance exams like

• AIEEE
• DC CEE
• GATE
• AICET
• TANCET

Unlike any other engineering domain, this course also has various specialisations from which candidates can choose and master. Following are the popular structural engineering specialisations:

Quick Link:  Best Engineering Courses in India

Admission to this engineering specialisation is done via entrance exams mostly. Several colleges also offer direct admission on a merit basis. Check the detailed admission process for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Structural Engineering below:

Admission Process for Bachelor’s Degree

Admission to undergraduate degrees like BE/BTech in structural engineering is done through engineering entrance exams. JEE Main is the most popular national-level entrance test conducted to grant admission to the first year of a B.Tech programme.

Admission Process for Master’s Degree

Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) results are used to select candidates for postgraduate courses (M.Tech) at various universities/institutions. In addition, numerous other state and university-level entrance exams are held to provide admission to structural engineering.

The process of getting admitted into a Structural Engineering program might vary depending on the college or university you are applying to. Some institutes might require you to take an entrance exam while others have a direct admission process based on specific criteria. Here are some steps to follow if you want to get admitted without an entrance exam:

• Educational Qualifications: Most universities will look at your academic qualifications, specifically if you have a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field before admitting you to a Master's program in Structural Engineering.
• Minimum GPA Requirements: Schools might have a minimum GPA requirement for admission, so make sure your grades meet or exceed the specified GPA criteria.
• Relevant Work Experience: Some programs might consider your professional work experience in the civil or structural engineering field when making their admission decision.
• Letters of Recommendation: You should request letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or professionals who can vouch for your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential in the field depending on the scope of your degree.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): You will need to write a compelling statement of purpose that outlines your academic and professional background, your motivation for pursuing structural engineering, and your career goals. This step will be valid for working professionals willing to pursue their higher studies.
• Personal Interview: Some institutions may require an interview as part of the admission process. Prepare for questions related to your academic background, work experience, and your interest in structural engineering. This step will be valid for working professionals willing to pursue their higher studies.
• Application Submission: Complete the online or paper application form as per the requirements of the institution. Make sure you provide all necessary documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and other supporting materials.
• Admission Review: The admissions committee will review your application, taking into account your academic qualifications, work experience, and supporting documents.

Once the review process is complete, you will be notified of the admission decision. If accepted, you will receive information about enrollment procedures and any further requirements.

The course fees depend upon factors like the type of college (government or private), college facilities, scholarships offered, and various others. The fees in government colleges is lower as compared to private colleges. Check out the estimated structural engineering course fees range in Indian colleges: 

Note: The fees given above are tentative and might change from college to college.

Quick Link: Scholarships offered by top IITs

Structural Engineering is a field that deals with the design and construction of buildings that can withstand natural disasters like earthquakes and strong winds. The curriculum involves Structural Engineering subjects like advanced finite element analysis, structural mechanics, reinforced and prestressed concrete, steel structures, towering skyscrapers, and towers. It also involves the maintenance, planning, and execution of plans in collaboration with the civil engineering section.

The Structural Engineering course curriculum is extensive and includes theoretical as well as practical areas of study. The course provides advanced knowledge about structural dynamics, Advance Concrete Technology, Environment Health, and Safety, etc, and has several practical classes and projects. The subjects in the curriculum include science-related topics like physics and mathematics. The course also follows a structured pattern of core, elective, lab subjects, and projects. Some of the various subjects covered in the Structural Engineering course include Advanced Engineering Mathematics, Industrial Management, Advanced Structural Analysis, Soil-Structure Interaction, Theory of Elasticity & Plasticity, and Advanced Structural Design.

Structural Engineering course is also offered by various international universities across the globe. Therefore, if you are planning to pursue this course and can afford to study structural engineering course from abroad will benefit you in many ways.

Reasons to Pursue Structural Engineering Abroad

Given below are the top reasons to pursue Stuctural Engineering abroad:

International Exposure

The work of structural engineers is critical to the infrastructure of societies all over the world. By studying overseas, you will get an understanding of how local cultures and geography impact global infrastructure. You will be exposed to a variety of engineering methodologies, projects, and rules, which will shape you into a more experienced and adaptable engineer. 

Diverse Specialisations to Choose 

In abroad the university offers a variety of specialisations in structural engineering, especially in master’s degrees, which might not be available in India. You can choose these unique specialisations like a Master's Degree in Geotechnical Engineering and Foundations, a Master of Science in Structural Engineering, or Civil Engineering (Technology), and make your career in it.

Better Career Opportunities

Securing an international degree will provide you with many career opportunities with a lucrative salary. An international degree holds more prestige around the world and recruiters give preference to candidates who have studied abroad. 

Secure Excellent Education

The international university is globally recognised and accredited therefore, they offer top-class education to students which is relevant and updated with current times. In international universities, students are taught via modern education methods that consist of lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies, field trips, etc.

Top Structural Engineering Colleges Abroad

Pursuing your education at an international university is a good way to progress in your career. Many students pursue their bachelor’s from India and opt for master’s degrees in abroad. However, you can study wherever you find the scope is good. Check some of the popular structural engineering colleges abroad given below:

The table below highlights the top Private Structural Engineering Colleges in India along with their fees and NIRF Ranking 2023.

Candidates can check the list of the government structural engineering colleges in India from the table below along with their fees and NIRF Ranking 2023.

Candidates who are willing to take direct admission in the structural engineering courses can check the table below.

Structural Engineers are crucial in the creation and growth of our cities and communities. Graduates pursuing this degree get various career options to choose from. They can employ themselves as:

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