Architecture or Engineering
Q. To all the architects and engineers out there:
I sure would appreciate any information on the differences between
architecture and engineering. I am currently in the process of a career
change from a medical profession to a career in the construction field. I
have a background in art and mathmatics, besides medicine, but I am having
trouble deciding between getting a degree in architecture or a degree in
civil engineering (structural engineer). I really love to read and think
about architecture, but the same goes for engineering. So there is my
dilemma, to be an architect or a civil engineer. I would appreciate any
advice on the above subject.
A. -I believe the American Institute of Architects publishes a pamphlet
explaining the differences between architecture and engineering. You may
contact the AIA at 1735 New York Avenue, NW; Washington, DC 20006.
Telephone: (202) 626-7300.
-Would you prefer to create vision or engineer someone else's vision?
btw, civil and structural engineering are two different things.
-I would be interested in knowing what university engineering schools
have departments of structural engineering, or offer specific degrees in
structural engineering. I always thought most structural engineers had
degrees in either civil or mechanical engineering.
Also interesting to see the continued emphasis on the word "vision" as
if that is the only sense that is important in experiencing a building.
-According to the 1994 ASEE Directory of Engineering ..., the University
of California at San Diego and Washington University (St. Louis) are the
only two with "structural engineering" degree programs. Many civil
engineering departments have strong structural areas (faculty, courses,
research). If you are interested in building structures, look into
architectural engineering with an emphasis on structures. You can learn
more about ARCE by visiting the following web sites:
http://www.arce.ukans.edu/nsae/main.htm
http://www.arce.ukans.edu/arce/arce.htm
Good luck in your search.