How to Be a Licensed Civil Engineer
Embarking on a career as a licensed civil engineer requires dedication, education, and a strong foundation in engineering principles. Civil engineers are responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining the infrastructure that supports our society, including roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. To become a licensed civil engineer, one must follow a specific path that involves academic training, professional experience, and passing a licensing exam. This article outlines the key steps to becoming a licensed civil engineer.
1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering
The first step in becoming a licensed civil engineer is to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. This degree program typically takes four years to complete and covers a wide range of topics, including mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. Students learn about various civil engineering disciplines, such as structural, transportation, environmental, and geotechnical engineering. It is essential to choose a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) to ensure that the degree meets industry standards.
2. Gain Professional Experience
After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, aspiring civil engineers must gain professional experience to become eligible for licensure. This experience can be obtained through internships, co-op programs, or full-time employment in the field. The requirements for professional experience vary by state, but most jurisdictions require at least four years of experience in civil engineering under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer.
3. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam
The next step is to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which is the first step toward becoming a licensed engineer. The FE exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and covers fundamental engineering and science knowledge. To be eligible to take the FE exam, candidates must have completed at least 60 semester hours of college-level engineering coursework.
4. Complete a Professional Engineering Degree (Optional)
While not required in all states, many civil engineers choose to pursue a professional engineering degree, such as a Master’s or Ph.D. This advanced degree can provide a deeper understanding of specific engineering disciplines and improve job prospects. Some states may also require a professional engineering degree to sit for the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
5. Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam
The final step in becoming a licensed civil engineer is to pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. This exam is administered by NCEES and tests the candidate’s knowledge and ability to apply engineering principles to real-world problems. The PE exam covers various civil engineering disciplines and is a rigorous test of a candidate’s professional engineering skills.
6. Obtain a License
Once a candidate has passed the FE and PE exams and met the experience requirements, they can apply for a license in their state. The licensing board will review the application and, upon approval, issue a license. A licensed civil engineer can then practice engineering independently and use the title “Professional Engineer” (PE).
In conclusion, becoming a licensed civil engineer is a challenging but rewarding process that requires a combination of education, experience, and professional development. By following these steps, individuals can establish a successful career in civil engineering and contribute to the development and maintenance of our nation’s infrastructure.
