Do you have a passion for engineering? Have you been wondering how to become a civil engineer? No worries, this article is for you! From roads, buildings, and bridges, cut across miles of sewers winding underneath our cities, civil engineers are in charge of building the captivating structures that surround us.
This branch of engineering is one of the oldest, however, it has evolved so quickly as technology advances. Additionally, it’s one of the highest-paying jobs around the world. To become a civil engineer, there are various steps and requirements involved. Stay glued to your seat and keep reading!
In this article, we will explain what civil engineering is all about and how to successfully become a civil engineer. Let’s dive in!
What Is A Civil Engineer?
Civil engineers are trained professionals who identify the best design for structures and oversee the construction process to achieve long-term durability. There are various examples of civil engineer specialties, such as construction, geotechnical, structural, land development, transportation, hydraulic, and environmental.
Civil engineers help in the construction of several kinds of structures that meet the needs of the general population. Meanwhile, you can become a civil engineer and practice in the public and private sectors. The public sector, like local councils and the national governments, requires civil engineering. The private sector on the other hand deals with everything from tiny firms to Fortune 500 corporations.
How To Become A Civil Engineer
Generally, you will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in engineering to become a civil engineer. That aside, you also need to have some professional experience and certifications to be eligible for this role. Below are the steps to follow if you intend to pursue this career. Keep reading!
1. Earn A Relevant Qualification
The first step involved in how to become a civil engineer is to earn a relevant qualification. To be eligible for this role, a bachelor’s degree in engineering (BEng) is the minimum educational requirement that you’ll need. Furthermore, this course will educate you on the fundamentals of engineering through lectures and practical work. Through these lectures and practicals, you’ll have an idea of the engineering field of interest (construction, geotechnical, structural, or transportation engineering) to choose from.
2. Gain Professional Experience
In addition to earning a relevant degree, you also need to gain professional experience to become qualified for the job. Taking the initial professional development (IPD) will help you develop the skills, knowledge, and experience required to become a civil engineer professionally. Your IPD will be measured against your knowledge, experience, and ability to perform the role. However, as an aspiring professional, you’ll mostly carry out your IPD through structured programs, like a graduate training scheme or an apprenticeship.
3. Pass Your Professional Review
Professional review is an aspect where you will show all the abilities you’ve acquired to be professionally competent. It’s the final stage to be professionally qualified as a civil engineer. The process here is in three steps, scroll down.
- Firstly, you will submit your application.
- You will prepare for an interview to demonstrate your knowledge.
- Lastly, you will complete an assessment that will prove your communication skills.
Alternative Paths To An Engineering Qualification
We have compiled some other ways of obtaining an engineering qualification aside from obtaining a degree.
1. Apprenticeships
Applying for an apprenticeship means you can combine part-time study with a job. While an apprenticeship will earn you the necessary knowledge and skills, your employer finances your studies. After completing your apprenticeship, you will be able to secure a full-time, permanent job along with an industry-recognized qualification.
Meanwhile, the recent government encouragement has pushed big engineering employers to greatly increase the number of apprenticeships they offer. Do you know there are various levels of apprenticeships? That’s right! Let’s check it out.
- A two-year Level 3 apprenticeship is equivalent to A-levels.
- A degree-level apprenticeship usually lasts for five years.
- Level 3 apprenticeships will further broaden your academic knowledge and provide you with on-the-job training.
Additionally, you may be eligible to be promoted to a higher degree with a level 3 certificate. Generally, it includes HND, HNC, a foundation degree, or a bachelor’s degree.
Types Of Apprenticeships
Most employers usually offer various engineering apprenticeships for interested candidates. You can either meet up with the employer for an engineering apprenticeship or just look through job boards. Listed below are some apprenticeship opportunities you might want to check out. Read on!
- Railway Engineering Design Technician Apprenticeship.
- Civil Engineering Technician Apprenticeship.
- Civil Engineer Degree Apprenticeship.
- Construction Site Engineering Technician Apprenticeship.
- Civil Engineer Site Manager Degree Apprenticeship.
With these opportunities, you will be granted the chance to build and improve your professional skills on your journey to becoming a civil engineer. On the other hand, it will give you the avenue to determine whether this career path is right for you!
2. Vocational Courses
In the absence of academic qualifications, you can still pursue a civil engineering career. Just ask how! It’s no news that various vocational courses are equivalent to A-levels. With these vocational courses, you can successfully pursue your civil engineering dream.
Furthermore, the A-levels are equivalent to certificates that even qualify you for the university entrance requirements needed to obtain a degree. Listed below are two of the most relevant vocational qualifications in civil engineering.
- BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering).
- BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering).
Upon completion of these vocational courses, you can pursue some more practical experience. Likewise, you can also expand your technical knowledge to increase your employability.
Responsibilities Of A Civil Engineer
Assessing The Construction Site
As a civil engineer, you will need to study the site from every perspective. You will also vet the location of the project and conduct a comprehensive feasibility analysis. With this, you will keep the factors that influence nature and the environment in mind and ensure to plan accordingly.
Overseeing And Inspecting Construction
One of the primary functions of a civil engineer is to supervise construction. You must always be there to oversee how the job is being done if the construction is in the relevant order. Additionally, you’ll need to inspect the quality of the work done while the project is in progress. Once the inspection is done and you’re satisfied, then you can declare it complete.
Essential Skills Of A Civil Engineer
Decision-making Skills
Civil engineers usually have to determine and plan feasibility for financial expenses and safety considerations. They also need to work with other professionals like urban and regional planners who need them for assistance on such matters.
Furthermore, civil engineers need to make correct decisions based on best practices, technical knowledge, and experience. Making accurate decisions will greatly have an impact on a project. In addition, the ability of a civil engineer to decide quickly makes them a better leader.
Leadership And Organizational Skills
Civil engineers are responsible for handling, overseeing, and doing extensive research on a project they conduct. Their leadership skills allow them to competently supervise the work of planners, surveyors, construction managers, civil engineering technicians civil engineering technologists, and others. As a qualified civil engineer, you’ll have the ability to sign the design documentation for infrastructure projects.
