There are colleges specifically best for those seeking to become architectural and engineering managers. These Managers across sectors organize, direct, and oversee various activities.
These can range from producing new products, constructing new homes, improving transportation infrastructure, and maintaining the utility services people rely on daily. It’s a challenging but rewarding profession that requires a broad range of skills and expertise.
They address construction issues and preserve the timeline of projects by utilizing their skills and understanding of scientific principles.
Suppose you’re interested in pursuing a career as an architectural and engineering manager. In that case, you may have some questions about what the job entails, where to study, and how to become an architectural and engineering manager. We have written this article to address those questions and provide guidance. Let’s dive in!
Table of contents
- What do Architectural and Engineering Managers do?
- What Skills Do I Need to Become a Successful Architectural and Engineering Manager?
- What is an Architectural and Engineering Manager’s Salary Range and Job Outlook?
- How to Become an Architectural and Engineering Manager
- 10 Best Architectural and Engineering Managers Colleges
- #1. University of Texas at Austin
- #2. Tufts University
- #3. Texas A&M University – College Station
- #4. University of Miami
- #5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- #6. California Polytechnic State University–San Luis Obispo
- #7. Missouri University of Science and Technology
- #8. Auburn University
- #9. University of Oklahoma
- #10. The Pennsylvania State University
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
What do Architectural and Engineering Managers do?
Since you now know who Architectural and Engineering Managers are, here is a list of what architectural and engineering managers are expected to do after being trained at architectural and engineering managers colleges:
- Create budgets, contracts, and bids, and bargain with the client to define the details and objectives of the project.
- Establish the staffing requirements for various projects, including selecting and managing architects, engineers, and other team members.
- Analyze how projects will affect the environment.
- Produce reports on project approach and progress and deliver them to clients.
- Communicate with authorities and the public to increase support for the project.
- Control the architect and engineer staff, resolve disputes, and adjust to changing conditions.
- Update clients, oversee contractors, and seek advice from others on projects.
- Supervise construction or manufacturing processes, uphold quality control, and oversee and authorize project revisions.
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What Skills Do I Need to Become a Successful Architectural and Engineering Manager?
Given the sophisticated and intricate architectural and engineering managers’ work, you must have the necessary skill set and expertise. This skill set sets you apart from the other architectural and engineering managers.
Here are some of the qualities needed for this position.
1. Good Communication Skills
This includes comprehending written words and paragraphs in documents concerning work, listening actively, communicating one’s opinion effectively, negotiating, and successfully communicating well in writing to meet the audience’s demands.
2. Reasoning Skills
This includes critical thinking, analysis, problem-solving, coordination, and the ability to select the best course of action, weighing the relative costs and benefits of the various options.
3. Management Capacity
These managers pay close attention to detail, manage their time effectively, and oversee financial and human resources.
4. Technical Capacity
This expertise comprises applied physics, chemistry, ecology knowledge, mathematics, system evaluation, and analysis. Architectural and engineering managers have specialized knowledge in design, creating products and systems, supervising business operations, applying safety standards, and technical design software.
5. Interpersonal Abilities
To fulfil deadlines and accomplish objectives, architectural and engineering supervisors must be able to work cooperatively with other employees.
6. Leadership Qualities
Managers in architecture and engineering oversee teams, which necessitates the capacity to plan, coordinate, and inspire people.
7. Maths Skills
Managers use calculus and other mathematical concepts in the architectural and engineering fields to create new products and procedures.
8. Organizational Abilities
Architectural and engineering supervisors are adept at managing multiple employees, schedules, and budgets simultaneously.
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What is an Architectural and Engineering Manager’s Salary Range and Job Outlook?
Graduating from any architectural and engineering managers college promises a comfortable life. The architectural and engineering managers’ average annual salary in the United States as of June 26, 2023, is $150,102. This equates to about $72.16 per hour. If you need a quick pay calculator, the value equals $12,508 a month or $2,886 per week.
The average salary for an Architectural and Engineering Manager is between $122,500 (25th percentile) and $173,000 (75th percentile), with the top 90 percentile earners in the United States receiving $173,000 yearly. Pay for architectural and engineering managers might vary depending on geographic location, experience, and education.
In the United States, there are more than 126,000 architects and close to 200,000 managers of architecture and engineering. According to projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, The employment of architectural and engineering managers is expected to expand by 2% between 2021 and 2031, which is less than the average for all occupations.
Over the next ten years, though, there will, on average, be 14,000 opportunities for architecture and engineering managers, notwithstanding the modest expansion in employment. These positions are created by the need to replace workers who change careers or leave the workforce due to retirement.
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How to Become an Architectural and Engineering Manager
To succeed as an architectural and engineering manager, one must have both a good college degree and substantial professional experience from one of the approved architectural and engineering managers colleges. The steps are as follows:
#1. Education
Most managers in architecture and engineering have a bachelor’s degree in either engineering or architecture. Architectural and engineering bachelor’s degree programs typically includes mathematics and physical sciences coursework.
In addition, degrees in architecture may contain classes in architectural theory, history, Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CADD), and building procedures; these programs last for around 5 years. Depending on the emphasis, engineering programs can last up to 4 years and involve in-depth study of engineering systems and principles in the classroom, lab, and field.
Master’s degrees in engineering management (MEM or MsEM), technology management (MSTM), or business administration (MBA) are available to managers in the architectural and engineering industry or those who want to become managers.
Some people complete their master’s degree before taking a management role; for others, it takes place while they are already managers. The typical path used by people who choose to manage in technical fields is to get an MsEM or MSTM, while those interested in general management abilities go for an MBA.
Engineering and technology management programs emphasising the industry offer accounting, marketing, and finance courses. Engineering management programs also offer coursework in product development and supply chain management. Technology management programs provide courses on information security and system development.
#2. Acquire a license
To practice, architects must have a license, and most engineers must have a license to provide services to the general public. Here are some other licensing considerations:
License as an architect: Architects go through the Intern Development Program, where they work as interns to gain relevant experience while supervised by a licensed architect. The program requires 5,600 hours of experience in various architectural forms.
After finishing the IDP, architects must pass the self-guided Architect Registration Exam. Since state licensing standards differ, some architects may need to perform additional activities or pass additional exams to get certified.
#3. Engineering license
A candidate must first pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam to become an engineer in training. They labour for four years under the direction of a certified engineer.
To become a Professional Engineer after acquiring this experience, candidates must pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam. Since state requirements differ, they might have to satisfy additional requirements to obtain a license.
#4. Get Relevant Work Experience
After years of working as architects or engineers, managers in the field generally progress to these positions. In those roles, they might have worked on challenging projects, created designs, addressed issues, and managed teams. Before managing a construction or remodelling project, a manager can be sure they have relevant experience.
If you have prior experience working in a manufacturing company or engineering firm in the private sector, or have held a public post where you planned and maintained municipal, state, or federal buildings, then you may find internships or co-op semesters to be a great way to gain more experience while still in school.
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10 Best Architectural and Engineering Managers Colleges
The popularity of degree programs in architectural engineering is on the lower end of the spectrum. In fact, out of the 395 majors examined each year, the major comes in at #239 overall. It can be increasingly difficult to find a school that is a good match for your needs and preferences.
Hence we have compiled this list of the 10 best Architectural and engineering managers colleges in the US. We understand the importance of selecting the right architectural and engineering manager college, and we hope this list assists you in making your choice.
#1. University of Texas at Austin
Founded in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin is a public university located in an urban area with a 431-acre campus. Its total undergraduate enrolment is 40,916 (fall 2023), and its academic calendar is based on semesters.
The University of Texas at Austin is ranked #38 among National Universities in the Best Colleges 2024-2025 edition. Out-of-state tuition and fees are $40,996, and in-state tuition and fees are $11,752. The school offers two Architectural and Engineering managers degree programs with an acceptance rate of 29%. Its SAT range falls within 1230 – 1500.
The University of Texas is among the best architectural and engineering management colleges. Students in architectural engineering in their fourth year at the University of Texas concentrate on one of four technical areas: structural systems, HVAC systems, energy analysis, or construction/project management.
Graduates often become licensed professional engineers and go on to work in the construction industry or other public or private sectors.
#2. Tufts University
Private university Tufts University was established in 1852. It is ranked as part of the best architectural and engineering managers colleges. The campus is 150 acres in size, has a total undergraduate enrolment of 6,676 (fall 2023), and is located in a suburban area. The academic calendar is based on semesters.
The National Universities section of the Best Colleges rating for Tufts University in 2024–2025 places it at number 32. Tuition and fees are $65,222. The school offers one Architectural and Engineering managers degree program and has an acceptance rate of 11%. Its SAT range falls within 1440 – 1550.
#3. Texas A&M University – College Station
The public university, Texas A&M University, was established in 1876. There are 56,723 undergraduate students enrolled (fall 2023), the campus is located in a city, and it is 5,200 acres in size. The academic calendar is based on semesters.
Texas A&M University is ranked #67 in the National Universities category in the Best Colleges 2023–2024 edition. The in-state cost is $13,178, while the out-of-state cost is $40,087. The school offers one Architectural and Engineering managers degree program with an acceptance rate of 64%. Its SAT range falls within 1140 – 1380.
Texas A&M University’s BS in Architectural Engineering program produces exceptional architectural and engineering managers who become professional engineers in the building, engineering, and architectural industries.
As part of the BS in Architectural Engineering degree, students who opt for the Structural Building Systems Track learn the necessary skills to excel in occupations that prioritize building safety and structural design. The track’s emphasis electives prepare students to design and analyze structural systems for buildings proficiently.
#4. University of Miami
The private university, the University of Miami, was established in 1925. Its suburban environment, total undergraduate enrolment of 12,089 (fall 2023), and campus size of 239 acres make it a popular choice. The academic calendar is based on semesters.
The University of Miami is ranked #55 nationally in the 2023–2024 edition of Best Colleges. The cost of tuition and fees is $57194. The school offers two Architectural and Engineering managers degree programs with an acceptance rate of 28%. Its SAT range falls within 1300 – 1460.
#5. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
The private Worcester Polytechnic Institute was established in 1865. The campus is 95 acres in size, has a total undergraduate enrolment of 5,224 (fall 2023), and is located in a city. The academic calendar is based on semesters.
National Universities is where Worcester Polytechnic Institute is ranked in the Best Colleges edition for 2023–2024 at #67. The total cost of attendance is $56,896. The school offers one Architectural and Engineering managers degree program with an acceptance rate of 60%. Its SAT range falls within 1310 – 1480.
The Worcester Polytechnic Institute curriculum was created following ABET’s standards for accreditation in architectural engineering. Building structures, mechanical systems, electrical systems, and construction/construction management are the four fundamental elements of the architectural engineering curriculum.
WPI has maintained a record of excellence and has secured a place in our list of architectural and engineering managers colleges. At WPI, a residency typically lasts 16 terms.
Students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in “Architectural Engineering” must fulfill the following distribution requirements in addition to the general WPI degree requirements (refer to WPI Degree requirements for more information).
ESSENTIALS MINIMUM UNITS
- Basic science and mathematics (Note 1) 4
- Additions to architectural engineering 1
- Design and engineering science (Notes 3, 4, 5) 5 1/3
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#6. California Polytechnic State University–San Luis Obispo
Founded in 1901, California Polytechnic State University—San Luis Obispo is a public university. The campus is 6,000 acres in size, has a total undergraduate enrolment of 21,093 (fall 2023), and is located in a suburban area.
It uses an academic calendar based on quarters. Regional Universities West, #2, is where California Polytechnic State University—San Luis Obispo is ranked in the Best Colleges edition for 2023–2024.
The cost of tuition and fees for in-state students is $11,022, while that for out-of-state students is $25,200. The school offers two Architectural and Engineering managers degree programs and has an acceptance rate of 33%. Its SAT range is 1240 – 1440.
You can learn to design the structural and mechanical systems used in the building process at Cal Poly if you pursue an architectural engineering degree there. The program places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning while also emphasizing theory.
You will enrol in several rigorous design lab courses, design real buildings, and have several opportunities to construct models and test building elements in the labs.
Thanks to this cross-disciplinary contact, you will take various architecture and construction management courses in addition to your structural engineering classes and gain a better grasp of the other fields you will collaborate with at work.
#7. Missouri University of Science and Technology
The public Missouri University of Science and Technology was established in 1870. It is located in a rural area having a 292-acre campus and 5,700 undergraduate students (fall 2023). The academic calendar is based on semesters.
According to the latest edition of Best Colleges 2023-2024, Missouri University of Science and Technology has been ranked #182 among National Universities.
In-state costs are $11,109, while out-of-state costs are $31,332. The school offers three Architectural and Engineering managers degree programs and has an acceptance rate of 85%. Its SAT range falls within 1290 – 1460.
Students must complete a minimum of 129 credits for a Bachelor of Science in architectural engineering (BSAE) at Missouri University of Science and Technology.
You will finish your first two years of college by completing the necessary courses in math, physics, English, architectural design, and other subjects.
Your engineering sciences classes will comprise most of your third and fourth years of study. Engineering design courses in broad and specialized fields are also completed in the fourth year. This maintains a commendable approach to learning and ranks among top architectural and engineering managers colleges.
#8. Auburn University
Auburn University is among the architectural and engineering managers colleges that provide students with intensive training and exposure.
Auburn University is a public university established in 1856. Its campus is 1,875 acres in size, has a total undergraduate enrolment of 24,931 (fall 2023), and is located in a suburban area. The academic calendar is based on semesters.
The National Universities section of the Best Colleges ranking for 2023–2024 places Auburn University at position 97.
Out-of-state tuition and fees are $31,986, with in-state costs of $11,826. The school offers four Architectural and Engineering managers degree programs and has an acceptance rate of 71%. Its SAT range falls within 1150 – 1320.
#9. University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma was established as a public university in 1890. The campus is 3,326 acres in size and has a total undergraduate enrolment of 21,152 (fall 2023). It is located in a city. The academic calendar is based on semesters. The University of Oklahoma is ranked #127 in National Universities in the 2023–2024 edition of Best Colleges.
In-state tuition and fees cost $9,312, while out-of-state costs are $25,880. The school offers one Architectural and Engineering managing degree program and has an acceptance rate of 85%. Its SAT range falls within 1150 – 1340.
The University of Oklahoma’s architectural engineering students learn by doing, applying what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations. Students can broaden their views through study abroad while being tutored and guided by upperclassmen.
It is one of the architectural and engineering managers colleges that empowers students via professional development. They receive competitive advantages in pursuing their future jobs thanks to renowned teachers and knowledgeable guest speakers.
#10. The Pennsylvania State University
The public university, Pennsylvania State University, was established in 1855. The campus is 7,958 acres in size and has an overall undergraduate enrolment of 40,600 (fall 2023). It is located in a city. The academic calendar is based on semesters. The Pennsylvania State University is ranked #77 among National Universities in the 2023–2024 edition of Best Colleges.
In-state tuition and fees cost $18,898, while out-of-state costs are $36,476. The school offers one Architectural and Engineering manager degree program with an acceptance rate of 56%. Its SAT range falls within 1160 – 1360.
Penn State University Architectural and Engineering Manager College offers two different degrees: a combined B.A.E./M.A.E. (Master of Architectural Engineering) degree and a B.A.E. (Bachelor of Architectural Engineering) degree.
The B.A.E. requires 160 credits, whereas a B.A.E./M.A.E. requires 172 credits. The B.A.E. degree requires five years to complete, while the B.A.E./M.A.E. degree requires 12 additional credits.
However, most students finish both their master’s degree and their bachelor’s degree in five years. Also, Penn State AE holds the largest AE career fair in the world and the biggest single-department career fair on campus. Over 135 companies participate yearly, with a waitlist of over 60.
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Frequently Asked Questions
With a degree in architectural engineering, you can acquire the necessary education and certifications to pursue various careers, such as architect or architectural manager.
Most architectural and engineering managers carry out their work within office settings, although some work in research labs or manufacturing facilities. They are often involved in collaborating with other professionals and supervising staff, including architects and engineers.
Architectural engineers employ engineering ideas and technology to build the required systems inside a building, whereas architects focus on aesthetic, functional, and spatial design.
Conclusion
Consider pursuing an architectural and engineering management degree to become an architectural engineering manager.
This field offers job security and high median compensation, with graduates having the opportunity to work for major firms or start their own businesses.
Check out our list of colleges to begin your journey towards this rewarding career.
References
- Indeed.com – How to Become an Architectural and Engineering Manager
- Bls.gov – Architectural and Engineering managers
- Universities.com – Best Architectural Engineering Colleges in the US 2024
- Niche.com – 2024 Best Colleges with Architectural and Engineering Managers degrees
- Usnews.com – The Pennsylvania State University
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