Engineering Law Degree
In its most basic sense, engineering is chiefly concerned with the science of construction and design. In building a road, house, building, and other types of infrastructure, engineers must see to it that proper methods and procedures are applied. Professional engineers also work on bigger projects such as the construction of power plants, train stations, and bridges. Considering the risks posed by poor quality of construction, they must operate based on the intended design and function to ensure safety at all times. (1)
Certain aspects of engineering also affect certain environmental factors including water supplies and land resources. (2) This is part of the reasons why contractors and engineers should secure local permits and licenses before construction. But despite these regulations, there's still a possibility for accidents to happen, whether it's caused by human error or natural disasters. (3) In which case, an engineering law degree is regarded with great significance in today's field of law practices.
In pursuing an engineering law degree, you have to be a master of both fields. In understanding the principles of engineering, you'll then understand the basic premises of its legislation. You can represent clients for litigation, arbitration, as well as review of contracts. As such, engineering law degree holders usually review the cases of contractors, engineers, architects, industrial companies, and some government agencies during a legal dispute. They can also work for construction groups in preparing their contracts and securing legal documents.
Engineering Law Degree: Educational Requirements
If you have a keen interest in both fields of law and engineering, then an engineering law degree may best suit your career goals. Ideally, you should earn an undergraduate degree on engineering or other related courses. Before you enroll for an engineering law degree, you should first search for law schools and graduate programs that will provide the best education on this field of expertise. (4) Most commonly, it will take you three years to complete your law degree. You can also explore the possibility of taking up an LLM or a Master in Law graduate program. (5)
Employment Opportunities
Better employment opportunities are available to engineer law degree holders. If you've passed the bar exam, you may seek employment in government agencies or private construction groups. Moreover, expect higher salary offers when working for prestigious industrial groups, which handle bigger projects and contracts.
Literary Citations & Article References:
(1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering
(2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_engineering_law
http://www.hunton.com/practices/practice_detail.aspx?gr_H4ID=929
(3) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering