Structural Engineering Technology: Career Associate

The Structural Engineering Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is a comprehensive educational pathway designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the field of structural engineering. This program provides a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of structural design, analysis, and construction techniques, equipping graduates with the technical skills necessary to support engineers and architects in developing safe, efficient, and innovative structural systems. Throughout the program, students will engage in a blend of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and practical hands-on training that emphasizes real-world applications. Courses cover key topics such as statics, materials properties, structural analysis, construction methods, and the use of industry-standard software. The curriculum is tailored to develop both technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities, ensuring students can effectively collaborate on projects and adapt to evolving industry standards. The program emphasizes safety, sustainability, and cost-efficiency in design and construction practices, aligning with current trends and regulatory requirements. Students will also gain valuable experience through internships and cooperative education opportunities, allowing them to connect classroom knowledge with industry practices. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to enter the workforce as technical aides in engineering firms, construction companies, or government agencies, supporting engineering teams with drafting, modeling, project coordination, and site inspections. This associate degree serves as a stepping stone for further education in civil or structural engineering disciplines and provides the foundational skills needed to pursue certifications or advanced degrees. Harrisburg Area Community College is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment, ensuring students develop both technical expertise and professional competencies essential for successful careers in structural engineering technology.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3 
ENGL 104 Technical Writing  3 
COMM 203 Interpersonal Communication  3 
Core A Elective  3 
Core B Elective  3 
Free Elective  3 
Physical Education & Wellness  1 

Major Requirements   
ENGR 102 Engineering & Engineering-Tech Orientation  2
CAD 156 AutoCAD for Architecture  3
GTEC 104 Engineering Materials & Processes  3
GTEC 201 Statics  3
CVTE 103 Surveying  3
CVTE 208 Strength of Materials  3
GTEC 208 Strength of Materials Lab  1
ENGR 271 Design for the Environment  3
SET 201 Intro Structural Engineering Technology  3
SET 202 Structural Design Fundamentals & Concepts  3

Other Required Courses   
MATH 103 College Algebra  (Core C)  3 
MATH 104 Trigonometry  3 
*Program Electives  6 

This curriculum is designed to prepare students to:

Assist in the design and development of civil structures using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) equipment

Prepare, interpret, and read technical drawings

Conceptualize ideas and communicate them to other project team members

Analyze static structures

Perform simple member designs

Interpret and apply the appropriate codes, regulations, and standards that govern the practice of structural engineering

Collect and interpret engineering data

Prepare reports, specifications, and manuals under the direction of scientists and engineers

Write and speak effectively

Analyze and interpret accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship

Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC? 
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.

Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program. 

Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.

What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year. 

The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.

Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Apply to HACC

Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)

Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county

Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0

Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test

Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC

Participate in at least two HACC student organizations

The Structural Engineering Technology: Career Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to prepare students for a variety of technical roles within the field of structural engineering. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines foundational knowledge in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles with specialized courses focused on the design, analysis, and construction of structural systems. Students gain hands-on experience with modern engineering software and tools, enabling them to contribute effectively to projects involving bridges, buildings, and other infrastructure components. The curriculum emphasizes the application of safety standards, building codes, and sustainability practices, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for employment in public and private sectors. Throughout the program, students have opportunities for internships and cooperative education experiences, providing real-world exposure and networking advantages. Graduates of this program typically pursue careers as drafting technicians, inspection specialists, or assistant project managers within civil and structural engineering firms, government agencies, or construction companies. The program duration is typically two years, culminating in an associate degree that meets industry requirements for entry-level positions in structural engineering technology. The program's accreditation and alignment with industry standards make it an attractive choice for students seeking to develop technical expertise and advance their careers in the evolving field of structural engineering.