Civil Engineer vs Architectural Engineer: Education, Qualifications, and Career Outlook

Civil engineers and architectural engineers are both important members of the construction industry, but they have different educational requirements and career paths.

Civil Engineers

Civil engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They must have a strong understanding of physics, mathematics, and engineering principles. Civil engineers typically earn a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from an accredited university. Some employers may also require civil engineers to have a master's degree or professional engineering (PE) license.

Architectural Engineers

Architectural engineers design and oversee the construction of buildings. They must have a strong understanding of architecture, engineering, and construction. Architectural engineers typically earn a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering from an accredited university. Some employers may also require architectural engineers to have a master's degree or professional architect (PA) license.

Education and Qualifications

The main difference between civil engineers and architectural engineers is their educational requirements. Civil engineers must have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, while architectural engineers must have a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering. Both degrees typically take four years to complete.

In addition to their bachelor's degree, civil engineers may also need to earn a master's degree or professional engineering (PE) license. A PE license is required to practice civil engineering in most states. Architectural engineers may also need to earn a master's degree or professional architect (PA) license. A PA license is required to practice architectural engineering in most states.

Career Outlook

The job outlook for both civil engineers and architectural engineers is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of civil engineers will grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment of architectural engineers is projected to grow 6% from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations.

Which is More Preferable to Pursue?

The best career for you will depend on your interests and skills. If you are interested in the design and construction of infrastructure projects, then a career as a civil engineer may be a good fit for you. If you are interested in the design and construction of buildings, then a career as an architectural engineer may be a good fit for you.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which career is right for you is to shadow a civil engineer or architectural engineer for a day. This will give you a firsthand look at what each career entails and help you decide which one is a better fit for your interests and skills.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between civil engineers and architectural engineers: