Eligibility for FE Exam in New Jersey and New York: Requirements for Non-Engineering Graduates
Engineering can be a highly rewarding career path, but not everyone starts their journey with a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. If you're interested in taking the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam in New Jersey or New York, but don't hold a degree in Civil Engineering or any kind of engineering, you might still have a path to pursue. This article will explore the eligibility requirements, including the possibility of taking the FE exam with an MS in Civil Engineering. Let's delve into the details.
Do You Need a B.S. in Civil Engineering to Take the FE Exam?
The short answer is no, you don't need a B.S. in Civil Engineering to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam in New Jersey or New York. The FE exam is designed to assess your knowledge in the fundamental principles and scientific concepts of engineering, rather than your specific educational background. What matters most is whether you have completed certain course prerequisites in mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
Course Prerequisites for the FE Exam
Mathematics: You need to have completed at least one year of Calculus-based mathematics, including Calculus I, II, and III, as well as Differential Equations. Physics: You must have completed Physics I and II, covering both Mechanics and Electricity Magnetism. Chemistry: The requirement is to have completed one year of General Chemistry.Can You Take the FE Exam with an MS in Civil Engineering?
Naturally, the question arises: Can you take the FE exam even if you hold an MS in Civil Engineering but don't have a B.S. in Civil Engineering or any engineering field? The good news is that, yes, it is possible. The FE exam evaluates your fundamental understanding of engineering principles, and while a more advanced degree can provide a solid foundation, it's not strictly necessary.
Many graduate programs assume that students have already completed the necessary prerequisites, and an MS in Civil Engineering may provide you with additional exposure to advanced topics and hands-on experience, but it doesn't necessarily mean you are exempt from taking the FE exam.
Benefits of Taking the FE Exam with an MS in Civil Engineering
Comprehensive Review: The FE exam is a great opportunity to review and consolidate your knowledge in core engineering topics, which can be beneficial for advancing in your career. Preparation for PE Exam: Those with a graduate degree might find the FE exam useful as preparation for the Professional Engineer (PE) exam, as it covers foundational knowledge that is essential for professional practice. Career Advancement: Successfully passing the FE exam can open doors for career advancement, as it is a key step in becoming a professional engineer.Regulatory Differences Between New York and New Jersey
While the overarching requirements for taking the FE exam remain consistent regardless of state, there are some regulatory differences between New York and New Jersey that you should be aware of:
New York: The New York State Board of Professional Engineers and Surveyors requires adherence to specific examination requirements and does not allow individuals to bypass these requirements solely based on an advanced degree. While an MS in Civil Engineering can be beneficial, it does not automatically exempt you from taking the FE exam.
New Jersey: Similar to New York, New Jersey's Board of Examiners for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors also requires that candidates meet certain academic prerequisites before taking the FE exam. An MS in Civil Engineering does not typically provide an exception to these requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, taking the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam in New York or New Jersey, especially if you do not hold a B.S. in Civil Engineering, is entirely possible as long as you meet the necessary course prerequisites in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Possessing an MS in Civil Engineering can certainly be advantageous for your professional development but does not automatically bypass the FE exam requirement. Always check the specific regulations of each state's regulatory board for detailed guidance.