Should I choose architecture or civil engineering if I am interested in buildings?
Architecture is often a better fit if you want to think about a building’s form, spaces, appearance, and use. Civil engineering may suit you better if you are more interested in structural support, ground conditions, construction, or infrastructure around buildings. Because some architecture programs emphasize structural or building services engineering, compare your interests with each university’s official curriculum before deciding.
Key points
- Architecture commonly covers building design, spatial planning, appearance, and users’ needs.
- Civil engineering commonly covers infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and tunnels, as well as ground, structures, and construction.
- If you are especially interested in safety or structural calculations, compare architecture-structure and civil/structural engineering study options.
Things to check
- Program names and subject coverage vary by university, faculty, and course, so check the official curriculum for the programs you are considering.