Structural engineering covers areas such as structural stability, structural analysis and design, structural mechanics, foundation design and properties of materials. Structural engineers use their creativity and innovation to respond with economic and sustainable solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing our world. Structural engineering can be seen as a specialism within civil engineering.
Structural engineers contribute towards shaping the world we live in, often working with architects, on the design, refurbishment and construction of all types of structures including: houses, offices, hotels, offshore oil platforms, sports stadia, bridges, even exotica such as space satellites and many other forms of structure. They may work for contractors, consultants, local authorities, institutions, individuals or in teaching and research.
If you are interested in building, altering or understanding the behaviour of a structure, you will probably need the services of a structural engineer.