Structural engineering is concerned with the design of bridges, buildings, offshoreoil platforms, dams etc. Structural design and structural analysis are the components of structural engineering and  key components in the structural design process. This involves computing the stresses and forces at work within a structure. There are some structural engineers who work in non-typical areas designing such as aircraft, spacecraft and even biomedical devices. Structural engineering is the field of engineering particularly concerned with the design of load-bearing structures. In practice, it is largely the implementation of mechanics to the design of structures such as buildings, bridges, walls (including retaining walls), dams and tunnels. Structural engineers need to design structures so that while serving their useful function, they do concerned with the design of bridges, buildings, offshore oil platforms, dams etc. Structural engineers need to design structures so that while serving their useful function. This repetitive involves computing the stresses and forces at work within a structure. There are some structural engineers who work in non-typical areas such as designing aircraft, spacecraft and even biomedical devices.

In civil engineering Structural design is a reiterative process of applying engineering mechanics and past experience to create a functional, economic and, most importantly, safe structure for the public to enjoy. Using techniques of structural analysis  and comforming to design specifications the design engineer works to create a solution that is to everyone's benefit.

Structural analysis is the mathematical calculation of forces, stresses, and deflections within structures, either as part of the design of those structures or as a tool in understanding the performance of existing structures. Pre-defined loads that are applied to a structure (such as its own weight, or the pressure of wind against a building's facade) are force inputs in the calculations.

Construction engineering concerns the planning and management of the construction of structures such as highways, bridges, airports, railroads, buildings, dams, and reservoirs. Construction of such projects requires knowledge of engineering and management principles and business procedures, economics, and human behavior. Construction engineers engage in the design of temporary structures, cost estimating, planning and scheduling, materials procurement, equipment selection, and cost control. It may involves planning and execution of the designs from transportation, site development, hydraulic, environmental, structural and geotechnical engineers.
 
The Structures and Materials Department is the largest department in the Faculty of Civil Engineering. It own 71 Academic Staff and 14 Technical Support Staff to assist students during their study in UTM.  The course area offered to undergraduates are :