Note: New applicants/students interested in this specialisation should apply for the Master of Civil Engineering

Structural engineers are essential to our built environments, covering domains of engineering from literally the ground up with their understanding of geotechnical site conditions, response to seismic action, materials for construction, and loading conditions. They work on the design, analysis, construction and maintenance of the structural elements in domestic, industrial and commercial buildings, including skyscrapers, bridges and other infrastructure.

Their specific technical knowledge – especially within Aotearoa – enables structural engineers to design for environments that are prone to seismic activity. As many parts of the world are susceptible to natural disasters, in particular earthquakes, the structural engineering profession is especially important for the safety of our people and communities.

Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland has maintained a strong reputation in this field, often ranking in the top 50 globally (QS Top Universities by Subject). This is enabled by our Structural Engineering community, which includes our researchers – many of whom are contributors to the nationwide QuakeCoRE – as well as technical expertise and facilities at our Structures Testing Laboratory.

A major benefit of this specialisation is the direct link between your study and future employment. The global demand for structural engineers exceeds supply in this time of rapid population growth, as ageing infrastructure needs replacing, economic and technical conditions change, and the need to rectify human harm to the environment becomes critical. Structural engineers are often notable specialists of the civil engineering field, and can find work opportunities in both the public and private sectors.