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Newsroom | Articles June 16, 2020 Creating an Eiffel Tower or a Hoover Dam is no easy feat. Without the hard work of architects and civil engineers, the world would not see such amazing structural accomplishments. But what role does each position play in the creation of these structures? Master of Science in Civil Engineering Architecture vs. Civil Engineering: Similarities and DifferencesArchitects and engineers provide essential services to the construction industry, contributing to the creation of contemporary buildings and complex infrastructure projects. While architects are responsible for the design and planning of structures ranging from houses and factories to skyscrapers and museums, civil engineers oversee the entire design-to-completion process for buildings, roads, dams, bridges, water systems, and other major works. Similarities Between Architecture and Civil Engineering
Differences Between Architecture and Civil Engineering
Exploring ArchitectureArchitecture jobs are expected to grow 8% between 2018 and 2028, faster than the average growth rate of 5% projected for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Increased demand for architects is being driven by increases in the construction of homes, offices, stores, schools, hospitals, and other buildings. The BLS reports that architects earned a median salary of $80,750 in 2019. These professionals typically work for architectural and engineering firms or on their own as independent contractors. Architects’ job duties include using sophisticated software programs to create detailed building plans. They may also submit job proposals and conduct pre-design reporting such as feasibility and site selection studies. Architects meet with clients and engineers during design phases to make sure facility objectives are met. They are available to clients during the construction process, and often visit building sites to make sure all design, material, and schedule requirements are followed. Essential Architecture Skills
Exploring Civil EngineeringAccording to the BLS, civil engineering jobs have a projected job growth outlook of 6% by 2028, as growing populations and aging infrastructure drive demand for new roads, bridges, airports, utility projects, and other essential structures. The BLS reports that civil engineers earned a median salary of $87,060 per year in 2019. During project planning stages, civil engineers conduct surveys, analyze construction sites and materials, and evaluate costs, regulations, and risks related to a project. They also use complex design programs to plan structures and systems. Once construction begins, they monitor worksite processes to ensure structural safety and solve problems as they arise. Civil engineers typically work for engineering firms and state and local governments. Essential Civil Engineering Skills
Careers in Civil EngineeringThe field of civil engineering includes a variety of subdisciplines including environmental, structural, and materials science engineering. Many civil engineers operate in supervisory capacities, creating and managing long-range development plans for cities and counties. Civil engineers play important roles in designing traffic and highway systems; they also play an essential part in making sure that water and wastewater systems function smoothly. Some of the various career paths in civil engineering include:
Learn More About a Master of Science in Civil EngineeringCivil engineers have vast responsibilities for ensuring the reliability and cost-efficiency of essential construction projects. When looking at architecture vs. civil engineering, the demanding nature of civil engineering careers makes an advanced educational background all the more important. Civil engineers benefit from a higher level of training that can build the confidence needed to complete complex infrastructure projects beyond a single building structure. Some of the courses a student will explore while pursuing a civil engineering master’s degree program, such as LSU Online’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering, include:
Learn more about LSU Online’s Master of Science in Civil Engineering degree and how it can help you pursue your civil engineering career goals. Recommended ReadingsHow Much Does a Civil Engineer Make? How to Become a Construction Manager Building With a Purpose: An Introduction to Lean Construction Engineering & Construction Programs SourcesReady to reach your goals?Take the first step forward by completing the form and our enrollment team will contact you soon to discuss:
Is architect higher than engineer?Architects are more deeply involved in the pre-construction phases, while civil engineers directly oversee all phases of construction work. Civil engineers oversee a variety of workers, including construction managers, architects, and mechanical engineers.
Is an architect considered an engineer?The key difference between an architect and an engineer is that an architect focuses more on the artistry and design of the building, while the engineer focuses more on the technical and structural side.
What pays better engineer or architect?Architects earn an average of $86,897 per year . In contrast, civil engineers earn an average of $85,617 per year . Factors like geographical location, experience level and focus area impact the earning potential of both professionals.
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