Architectural Engineering Frequently Asked Questions
From such things as working with building models, Architectural Engineering students graduate with excellent knowledge of a building’s performance from an engineering perspective as well as an the ability to integrate it’s architectural requirements.
Given our experience with incoming Architectural Engineering students, on this page we anticipate and answer some questions potential students frequently ask related to job opportunities, state licensing, architecture, and preparing for and attending CAEE.
Job Opportunities
- What are the summer job opportunities?
While you are a student, the Engineering Career Assistance Center (ECAC) can assist you in finding a summer job or internship that will provide you with engineering experience. The ECAC also has a Cooperative Engineering Education (Co-op) program through which students can obtain engineering experience before they graduate. - What are the job opportunities after graduation?
Employment opportunities are excellent. Only about 15 accredited Architectural Engineering programs exist in the United States, and demand is very strong for the limited number of graduates. Our records show that 100% of UT Architectural Engineering graduates secure employment within six months of graduation. - What kind of jobs do Architectural Engineers find?
There are many potential areas of employment. Many graduates find employment with structural or building environmental systems engineering consulting firms, which work with architects in designing building structures and mechanical systems. Other graduates work with acoustics and noise control specialists. Still others find employment with construction firms, as field construction engineers, project managers, or cost estimators. Large industries—such as oil companies, building material manufacturers, and railroads—are always interested in hiring Architectural Engineers for management or sales positions. State and federal agencies involved in building design, construction, and research offer many opportunities for graduates. Many graduates find employment with real estate development and facilities-management firms. - What starting salary could I expect?
Current starting monthly salaries range from $3,000 at small firms in small cities to $3,500 or more in large firms in large cities, and they increase year by year. Buildings are one of the fundamental needs of our society, and there will always be a strong demand for Architectural Engineering graduates. - Is it possible to become a self-employed consulting engineer?
One desirable aspect of being an Architectural Engineering graduate is the possibility of becoming a self-employed consulting engineer. After achieving engineering registration and developing a good professional reputation, an engineer can open an office with a modest capital investment. The primary requirement is a sufficient number of clients, such as architects. Many Architectural Engineering graduates become principals in their own consulting firms.
State Licensing
- What is required to become a licensed (or registered) engineer?
The State of Texas requires a degree from an accredited engineering program and four years of acceptable engineering experience working under the supervision of a licensed engineer. Nearly all states also require exams over basic and professional subjects. It is necessary to be licensed in order to charge clients for engineering services. Students obtaining degrees in architecture are also eligible for registration as architects.
Architecture
- Can I study both architecture and architectural engineering?
Yes, it is possible to obtain two degrees: a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering and a Bachelor of Architecture, through a cooperative effort of CAEE and the School of Architecture known as the dual-degree program (see the link for more information). - How do I apply for the dual-degree program?
You will need to apply to and be accepted by the UT Office of Admissions. Both the Cockrell School of Engineering and the School of Architecture accept only a limited number of applicants due to space limitations. - How does a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering affect my getting a Master's degree in either field?
With a BS in Architectural Engineering, qualified students can seek admission as a graduate student. If admitted, students can possibly obtain either a Master’s degree in Architectural Engineering in about one and a half years or a Master’s degree in Architecture in about three years. Some students may need to make-up specified deficiency coursework, in addition to the requirements for the graduate degree.
Preparing for and Attending CAEE
- What kinds of courses will prepare me for Architectural Engineering at UT?
Good preparatory courses focus on design, computer-aided design, and on introduction to engineering fields, civil engineering, physics, chemistry, and calculus. The last three (physics, chemistry, and calculus) are very important for students who want to transfer into Architectural Engineering. - What student organizations are available to Architectural Engineers at UT?
There are a number of Student Organizations in which Architectural Engineering students may be interested.
If you do not see the answer to your question, feel free to e-mail the CAEE Undergraduate Coordinator.
You may be interested in continuing to Architectural Engineering Undergraduate Objectives and Outcomes or in returning to Undergraduate Degree Plans and Courses.