Entry Requirements

A degree, BTEC or HND in Structural Engineering is required to train as a structural engineer. To gain a place on a degree course you will need a minimum of 2 A Level / Higher Grade passes, although every university and programme is different so you will need to check this out. For more information on university courses, visit the UCAS website, at http://www.ucas.co.uk/.

There are several stages of training, firstly completing a period of initial professional development. You must then pass a professional review, and finally gain membership into the Institution of Incorporated Engineers.

The Benefits

Graduates can expect to earn about £16,000. A senior engineer with five years' experience around £27,000, while an associate can expect £34,000. As usual, salaries in London are higher.

Some structural engineers go on to set up their own practices, and can earn even more. For further information about salaries refer to professional institutions and industry press.

The Job  

A structural engineer makes sure that a building's shape, design and the materials it is made from are strong enough to withstand the forces of nature. In the UK this might not seem quite so radical but in areas prone to earthquakes, it can make the difference between life and death.

Structural engineers don't just work with new structures. Old or damaged buildings can often need to be made safe and secure as well.

The People  

If you've ever wondered how a bridge stays standing up in a force ten gale, or why a dam stays put when millions of tonnes of water are pushing against it, then structural engineering could be the career for you. The work you carry out is responsible for our safety.

Structural engineers are in high demand, and it's likely you'd get the opportunity to work abroad. To find out more about what it takes to make it as a structural engineer, visit http://www.istructe.org.uk/.

John Paull shares his plans for the future and how he intends to leave a lasting impression.