Which Civil PE Exam Should I Take?
Embarking on the journey to become a licensed professional engineer (PE) is a significant milestone in your career. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which Civil PE exam to take. With various options available, it’s essential to understand the differences and choose the exam that aligns with your professional goals and expertise.
Understanding the Civil PE Exams
The Civil PE exam is divided into two categories: the Civil Engineering (CE) exam and the Environmental Engineering (ENVR) exam. Both exams are designed to assess your knowledge and skills in engineering principles and practices. However, they focus on different areas of civil engineering.
The Civil Engineering (CE) exam covers the following disciplines:
1. Construction Engineering
2. Geotechnical Engineering
3. Structural Engineering
4. Transportation Engineering
5. Water Resources Engineering
The Environmental Engineering (ENVR) exam focuses on the following areas:
1. Environmental Engineering
2. Water Resources Engineering
3. Solid Waste Management
4. Air Quality Engineering
Choosing the Right Exam
To determine which Civil PE exam you should take, consider the following factors:
1. Professional Experience: Reflect on your professional experience and the areas of civil engineering you have worked in. If you have a strong background in construction, geotechnical, structural, transportation, or water resources engineering, the Civil Engineering (CE) exam may be the best choice. Conversely, if you have a background in environmental engineering, water resources, solid waste management, or air quality, the Environmental Engineering (ENVR) exam may be more suitable.
2. Education and Training: Assess your education and training in civil engineering. If you have a degree in civil engineering with a concentration in one of the disciplines covered by the Civil Engineering (CE) exam, it may be the right choice. If your degree is in environmental engineering or a related field, the Environmental Engineering (ENVR) exam might be more appropriate.
3. Personal Interests: Consider your personal interests and career aspirations. If you are passionate about a specific area of civil engineering, such as water resources or environmental engineering, choosing the corresponding exam will allow you to pursue your interests professionally.
4. Exam Content: Familiarize yourself with the content of each exam. Review the exam content outlines provided by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) to ensure you are prepared for the material covered in the exam.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Civil PE exam is crucial for your career advancement. Take the time to evaluate your professional experience, education, interests, and the content of each exam to make an informed decision. By selecting the exam that aligns with your expertise and aspirations, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a licensed professional engineer.
