If you're considering pursuing a Professional Engineer (PE) license in the fields of civil engineering or environmental engineering, you'll need to pass a specialized exam tailored to your area of expertise. Among the various disciplines, the PE Civil Water Resources and Environmental exam and the PE Environmental exam are two distinct paths that aspiring engineers might choose. A question we at Civil Engineering Academy often receive is: “What is the difference between the Civil PE Water Resources and Environmental Exam and the PE Environmental Exam?” Usually followed by if we have any resources for exam preparation.
The good news is that the answer now is yes, as we recently launched the Ultimate PE Environmental Exam. The Ultimate PE Environmental Practice Exam (Vol. 1) has 80 multiple-choice questions to help Environmental Engineers prepare for the environmental-specific PE Exam.
This practice exam follows the exact specifications defined by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). There's nothing else out there like this to help you better prepare for this exam.
So what’s included in The Ultimate PE Environmental Practice Exam? Great question! Here's what you'll be getting in one sweet nutshell:
- 80 exam-like questions (and solutions) with the same look, feel, and difficulty as the actual test. Updated to meet the latest specifications.
- Clearly written problems and solutions with headings and subheadings, so you know what to study if you totally bomb a question.
- Additional references that you'll need to familiarize yourself with for both our practice exam and the real exam. We've got it all for you in one place!
- You are saving the planet by getting instant access to the test. There is no need to wait days for a book—download it now!
- Support! Run into a question you need help with? Email us at [email protected], and we'll answer your questions!
- Finally, when this practice exam is updated to reflect any changes the NCEES makes, you will receive the newer versions for free—every time!
But before you decide whether to take the Civil PE Water Resources and Environmental exam or the PE Environmental Exam, let's explore the differences between the two exams. After all, their names sound so similar that it can be confusing! (And it was for me, too, when I was registering for my PE Exam and faced this decision.)
Understanding the Differences Between the PE Civil Water Resources Exam and the PE Environmental Exam
While both exams share some common ground, they also have significant differences that cater to their specific domains. This article aims to elucidate these differences to help you decide which path aligns best with your career goals.
Scope and Focus
PE Civil Water Resources Exam: The PE Civil Water Resources and Environmental exam is a subset of the broader PE Civil exam. It focuses on water resources and environmental engineering topics within the context of civil engineering. The primary areas covered include hydrology, hydraulics, water treatment, wastewater treatment, environmental site assessment, and environmental remediation. This exam is tailored for civil engineers who specialize in the planning, design, and management of water resources projects.
PE Environmental Exam: In contrast, the PE Environmental exam is a standalone exam specifically designed for environmental engineers. It encompasses a wider range of environmental engineering topics beyond water resources. Key areas include air quality, environmental health and safety, environmental assessments, solid and hazardous waste management, site remediation, and environmental laws and regulations. This exam is suited for engineers whose work spans various aspects of environmental protection and sustainability.
Preparation and Study Materials
PE Civil Water Resources Exam: Preparation for the PE Civil Water Resources exam often involves studying both general civil engineering concepts and specialized water resources and environmental engineering topics. On exam day, according to NCEES PE Civil Water Resources Exam Specifications, you will be provided digital copies of the Civil PE Reference Handbook, TSS Wastewater Facilities 2014, and TSS Waterworks 2018. You should be working through and solving all practice problems using digital versions of these resources to simulate the exam-day experience. Additionally, review courses that focus on both breadth and depth topics can be beneficial, such as Civil Engineering Academy’s Ultimate PE Review Course
PE Environmental Exam: Candidates for the PE Environmental exam typically focus on a broader range of environmental engineering topics. On exam day, according to NCEES PE Environmental Exam Specifications, you will be provided digital copies of the PE Environmental Reference Handbook. You should work through and solve all practice problems using the digital version of this resource to simulate the exam-day experience. Practice exams such as The Ultimate PE Environmental Practice Exam, designed specifically for the PE Environmental exam, can also provide targeted preparation and practice.
Career Implications
PE Civil Water Resources Exam: Passing the PE Civil Water Resources exam can open doors to careers in civil engineering firms, government agencies, and consulting firms that focus on water resources projects. Professionals may work on designing dams, managing water supply systems, or developing flood control measures.
PE Environmental Exam: On the other hand, the PE Environmental exam is ideal for those aiming to work in industries related to environmental protection, sustainability, and public health. Career opportunities may include roles in environmental consulting firms, regulatory agencies, and companies focused on pollution control, waste management, environmental compliance, and environmental remediation.
Conclusion
Choosing between the PE Civil Water Resources exam and the PE Environmental exam depends largely on your career aspirations and areas of interest. If your passion lies in the design and management of water resources projects within the civil engineering domain, the PE Civil Water Resources exam is the right choice. However, if you're drawn to a broader range of environmental engineering challenges and sustainability issues, the PE Environmental exam may better suit your goals. Regardless of the path you choose, obtaining a PE license is a significant achievement that can greatly enhance your professional opportunities and credibility.
Author: Matt Fanghella, PE, CFM