About: Engineering

Engineering is the profession in which a knowledge of the mathematical and natural sciences gained by study, experience, and practice is applied with judgment to develop ways to use economically the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of mankind. In New Zealand an Engineering degree (BE) will take 4 years and engineering degrees accredited by IPENZ are recognised as meeting the initial academic requirements for professional engineers.

Structural Engineering is the art of economically designing buildings, bridges and other structures to support their contents and protect them from extreme environmental events such as wind, snow, fire or earthquake. To do this, structural engineers are responsible for:

• Assessing the loads that will be applied to a structure throughout its lifetime.
• Working out how the structure will support those loads.
• Selecting materials, components and connections for the structure that will carry the loads both safely and without excessive deformation.
• Planning a safe construction sequence.
• Preparing drawings and specifications for the complete structure.
• Supervising the construction to ensure the plans are followed.

Structural engineers work closely with architects, contractors, quantity surveyors and regulators. They also consult building service, earthquake, environmental, geotechnical, hydraulic, roading and traffic engineers for specialist advice.

IPENZ-recognised Engineering degree courses are available at The University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology, Manukau Institute of Technology, The University of Waikato, Massey University and University of Canterbury. For information on Engineering education visit http://www.futureintech.org.nz/. The IPENZ Foundation also award scholarships on an annual basis. http://www.foundation.org.nz/default.cfm