Carreer change, should I still get my PE?

Is there a point in getting my stamp if there is a high likelihood that I will never be singing plans?

I have been working for a civil engineering firm for 2.5 years since my B.S. graduation, and I decided to get a masters in computer science at about the same time my PE registration came up.

Whether or not I will be practicing is still obscure to me, ideally once I finish the program I would like to utilize my programming skills in the civil engineering world, but I do know that option is somewhat limited compared to the other career paths available once I graduate.

In my office we utilize a lot of engineering software but never actually implement coding to our work. This may be different in other firms though?

(In case you ask, the reason I decided to go for computer science is because I started programming for fun about a year ago and it quickly turned into my favorite hobby...)

My opinion is that if you are eligible to take the exam you should do so as early as possible. I feel it gets a lot harder the further out of school you are because the subjects not in your depth area become less and less familiar to you. Even if you end up never needing a PE during your career it will never hurt to have it and it would just keep more options available to you down the road.

my :2cents:

It's better to have something you will never need, than to try to struggle to get it later if you need it.

Well, like the two fine gentlemen before me pointed out, there isn't really a downside to taking the test if you're eligible...the cost isn't that great and it adds to your professional resume. Also, if you plan on writing civil software, who would want civil software written by someone who doesn't have professional credentials...

thanks for the replies!

A lot of people call the Illinois Society of Professional Engineers because they went into other fields after graduating college but are now seeking to earn their PE. They seem to universally regret not just taking the exams out of school while the information is still fresh.

Also, we here from a lot of engineer firms that they appreciate a PE, even when they aren't necessarily looking for someone to seal plans. A PE license shows a commitment to the profession. Because many states have a continuing education associated with the license, a firm can be reasonably assured that a PE is keeping up to date with new info.