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Did you know that early civil engineering wasn’t so much a profession as it was a survival skill? Building shelters, irrigation systems, and roads were necessary for ancient societies to thrive.

Today, civil engineering continues to build and shape society in many ways. Civil engineers plan, design, construct, and maintain diverse physical infrastructure.


No wonder then that civil engineers are among the highest-paid professionals. Their median wage was $99,590/year (BLS, May 2024) while the highest earners rake in more than $160,990/year.

But enjoying the benefits of being a civil engineer doesn’t come easy either. For starters, you must complete an ABET-accredited BS in Civil Engineering program. Then, you have to earn certifications for civil engineers for a competitive edge.

Earning career certifications for civil engineers isn’t an easy path either. Both the FE and PE exams demand intensive preparation to pass. It is also true for other recommended certifications, such as AutoCAD and BIM.

But doing so is crucial for your career success. These certifications highlight your job readiness and boost your career growth opportunities.

You don’t have to wait until your college graduation to earn these certifications, too. Start earning a civil engineering student certification during your studies. You can also do so right after graduation. Doing so shows your initiative and commitment to the profession.

In this article, we’ll discuss the FE and PE as well as other valuable engineering certifications.

Related:

Why Certifications Matter in Civil Engineering

Of course, civil engineering certifications for students aren’t compulsory. Even licensure isn’t required for entry-level civil engineers. But they must work under the supervision of licensed Professional Engineers.

But there are many good reasons to earn undergraduate civil engineering credentials:

They serve as your first step toward licensure.

You must pass the FE exam if you want to be eligible for the PE exam.

Certifications confirm your knowledge, boost your employability, and show your commitment.

You have formal proof of your technical knowledge and skills, and problem-solving skills. Certifications highlight your professional commitment and job readiness, too.

Employers often prefer candidates with relevant certifications.

You’ll find that many employers require or prefer FE-certified candidates. It is true even for entry-level positions.

Undergrads stand out in internships and entry-level job markets.

You’re more competitive for internships and jobs, too. It is particularly useful if you don’t have extensive practical experience.

Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Certification

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the foundation for all engineering credentials.

What Is the FE Exam?

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) is a non-profit. The organization works with state licensing boards to promote uniform licensing standards.

As such, the NCEES also administers the FE certification exam. The FE exam tests candidates on the fundamentals of engineering principles and practices. The topics covered are discussed in ABET-accredited civil engineering programs, too.

Once you pass the FE exam, you become an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI). Again, passing the FE exam is the first step toward full civil engineering licensure.

Who Should Take It?

The FE certification is among the best engineering certifications for college students. Why? You can take it either:

  • In your final year as an undergraduate engineering student
  • Right after graduating from your undergraduate engineering program

In either case, the material’s still fresh in your mind. You’ll then have a higher likelihood of passing the FE exam.

Benefits of Passing the Exam

When you pass the FE exam, you can look forward to these benefits.

  • Increase your employability because it shows your readiness for engineering responsibilities.
  • Highlight your strong commitment to professional growth and continuous learning.
  • Prepare for the PE licensure exam

Exam Structure and Preparation Tips

The FE exam covers topics in:

  • Mathematics
  • Dynamics
  • Statics
  • Materials
  • Structural analysis
  • Fluid mechanics
  • Environmental engineering

This is a computer-based exam consisting of 110 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have six hours to finish the exam. The exam fee is $225, payable directly to NCEES.

Candidates must register via the NCEES website. You can choose your test date – the FE exam is available year-round. Plus, you can choose NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers.

Resources

You should prepare for the rigorous FE exam. Here are a few of the best resources:

  • NCEES FE Reference Handbook. It is the only reference material allowed during the exam.
  • Study guides and prep books. Consider those by Kaplan and PPI (Michael Lindeburg).
  • Online prep courses are available at Coursera and the School of PE.
  • University support services, such as review sessions. 

Professional Engineer (PE) License

The next step is earning the Professional Engineer certification:

What Is It and Why Is It Important?

The PE license is the highest civil engineering licensure in all 50 states. It shows technical knowledge, professional integrity and credibility, and commitment to public safety.

Engineers who want to offer engineering services to the public must have it. These services include, but aren’t limited to:

  • Designing and approving construction plans for public physical infrastructure
  • Preparing and signing off on engineering specifications and drawings
  • Overseeing and certifying construction projects for public safety and code compliance

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must meet these eligibility requirements to become a PE.

  • Pass the FE exam and become either an EIT or an EI.
  • Have at least four years of relevant work experience under a licensed PE.
  • Pass the PE exam.

Depending on your state, you may have to complete other requirements. These can include continuing education and/or an ethics exam.

Long-term Value

Earning the PE designation leads to long-term value, too.

  • Higher salaries. Licensed PEs can earn between $30,000 and $42,000 per year more than non-licensed engineers.
  • More responsibility. Licensed PEs are more qualified for senior roles, such as firm principal.
  • More leadership roles are within reach in the public and private sectors.

The PE credential isn’t for undergraduates. But if you want to be in the running for career growth, start planning for it now.

Additional Relevant Certifications for Undergrads

Be sure to consider these best certifications for aspiring civil engineers, too:

AutoCAD Certification

This is among the must-have civil engineering certifications for students. Why? AutoCAD is the software used for drafting and design in civil engineering firms. You can learn it through online platforms (Autodesk) and college-sponsored programs.

Revit or BIM Certification

Consider the Building Information Modeling (BIM) software (e.g., Revit), too. This is a valuable credential for infrastructure and urban development projects.

OSHA Safety Certification

Choose from either the 10-hour or 30-hour certification. Either one shows knowledge of workplace and construction site safety. If you want to work on-site or manage field operations, it’s a must.

LEED Green Associate Certification

It is among the must-have career certifications for civil engineers, too. With its focus on sustainability, it’s valuable for environmentally-conscious projects.

Project Management Certifications

If you want to lead projects, consider earning an entry-level certification. The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) credential is a good start.

Microsoft Project or Primavera P6 Training

Both tools are often used in civil engineering projects. The training emphasizes the efficient use of scheduling and project planning tools.

How to Choose the Right Certification as a Student

Earning even a single civil engineering student certification demands careful planning. Start by choosing the right certification for you by following these steps:

Consider your area of interest within civil engineering.

Identify your passion in the field first. Is it in transportation, structures, or environment, among others? Then, make a list of the compulsory and optional certifications available.

Balance certification cost and time with academic commitments.

Earning undergraduate civil engineering credentials can cost hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. Go for certifications within your budget first, or look for financial aid.

Seek guidance from faculty, academic advisors, and industry mentors.

You will gain information about the best credentials for your intended career path. Plus, you’ll gain industry insights that can influence your career.

Tips for Preparing and Earning Certifications

Engineering certifications for college students aren’t easy to earn. Both the training and the certification exams are rigorous. But doing so is possible if you keep these tips in mind.

  • Use free or discounted student prep resources. NCEES, PMI, and Autodesk, among others, offer free or low-cost study materials. Ask your program director, too, for access to study materials and premium content.
  • Form study groups or join engineering student organizations. Consider joining the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) for networking, too. You will be more motivated to study and get study insights when you are with peers.
  • Take advantage of campus workshops or certification bootcamps. You will learn from experienced professors and engineers.
  • Plan certifications around school breaks or light course loads. This way, you will not have to be overwhelmed by your academics and reviews.

Conclusion

Civil engineering certifications for students can launch a successful career. These validate your skills, boost your credibility and, thus, make you more competitive.

You don’t even have to earn many certifications for civil engineers. Even one well-chosen certification can set you apart from the job competition.

Proactive planning and continuous learning are keys to success.

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