Architectural engineering takes architectural designs and makes them real. A lot goes into the construction of a building. As an architectural engineer, you will need to bring the architect’s drawings to life in a way that is economically feasible, durable, structurally sound and approved by O.S.H.A. If you’re in charge of HVAC, you’ll need to know the size of the area you will be heating and ventilating and what systems will provide the best results without going over your budget while still being environmentally aware.

To begin, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Then, decide whether your sights are set on architecture (the creative force that designs buildings) or engineering. If you are creative and also skilled in math and science, architectural engineering may be right for you. Taking courses in upper-level math and computer-assisted design (CAD) is a way to learn if this is what you would like to do on a regular basis. Internships are also a great opportunity to find out if architectural engineering is right for you.

If you decide to become an architectural engineer, the next step is to complete a four- or five-year program at a college accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Some of the best architecture schools for undergraduates include Cornell University, Syracuse University and Rice University. Harvard University and the University of Michigan are the top-ranked schools for graduate programs.

Architecture is not architectural engineering, so be careful to take classes focused on engineering to obtain an architectural engineering degree. Architectural engineering classes will give you building-specific information, whereas other engineering specializations may not. Your coursework will be heavy in math, drafting and surveying. Also, there will be courses in art and design so that you can better read the drawings provided by the architects. In your final years at school, you may want to focus in an area such as heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical or construction management.

Once you have finished an accredited architectural engineering program, the next step is to become a licensed engineer.  To become licensed, you must take the Architectural Engineering Principals and Practice of Engineering exam given by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. Because architectural engineering courses provide you with a wider scope of information on all things building related, you should have all the information necessary to pass the exam. Each state has its own licensing requirements, but all 50 require this exam

There is a need for qualified individuals in areas such as construction management.. You may encounter competition, so try to get the best schooling you can obtain, and furthering your education can’t hurt.

Places you can apply to work for include construction companies, corporations, firms and government offices. Depending on your focus, you can be hired for job in structural, electrical, mechanical, environmental or other specialties within engineering. The better you become at your job, the more renowned your name becomes, and the more money you receive. Try to become good in more than one area of expertise. The goal is to become invaluable to the team.