University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This integrated MEng programme covers the full lifecycle of maritime assets, from concept and design through to operation, maintenance and decommissioning. Early years build a foundation in mathematics, mechanics, materials and fluid dynamics. Core naval architecture subjects that follow include hydrostatics and stability, ship structures and structural analysis, ship and offshore hydrodynamics (resistance and propulsion), seakeeping and manoeuvrability, and ship design and construction processes.

Marine engineering topics cover marine propulsion systems, power generation and energy systems for ships and offshore platforms, machinery installation and maintenance, and systems integration. Methods and tools taught include finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, model-scale testing, CAD and structural fatigue assessment. The course emphasises laboratory and workshop skills through towing tank/model testing, structural experiments and prototype development, alongside coursework, group design projects and an extended individual research project at master’s level.

Students can typically choose optional modules in related areas such as offshore renewable energy, subsea engineering, advanced fluid-structure interaction or naval architecture specialisms. The programme also offers routes for industrial experience through placements or year-long industrial experience options and strong industry project links embedded in final-year design work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong attainment in mathematics and a physical science (usually physics). Typical entrants will have high-level school qualifications or equivalent technical qualifications demonstrating competence in calculus, mechanics and scientific reasoning. The university accepts a range of international qualifications and recognises relevant BTEC, Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, International Baccalaureate and other equivalent pathways.

Beyond formal grades, the selection process looks for evidence of problem-solving ability, numeracy and commitment to engineering practice. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English language requirement. Where appropriate, applicants with relevant industrial experience or vocational qualifications are considered.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across the maritime, offshore energy and marine technology sectors. Typical job titles include ship designer, marine systems engineer, structural analyst, hydrodynamics engineer, offshore engineer, classification society surveyor or research engineer. Employers include shipyards, shipowners, naval architects and design consultancies, classification societies, offshore engineering firms, renewable energy companies (including offshore wind), ports and marine research institutes.

The programme is designed to support professional development and is aligned with pathways to chartered status through relevant professional bodies. Graduates often follow careers that combine design, analysis, project management and technical leadership, with opportunities to work internationally on commercial, defence and renewable projects.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a longstanding reputation in naval architecture and marine engineering and maintains close links with industry, providing guest lectures, live project briefs and placement opportunities. Teaching is reinforced by specialist facilities such as hydrodynamics and towing tank testing, structural laboratories, workshops and computing suites for CAD, CFD and FEM.

The department’s research activity ensures that teaching reflects current industry challenges in ship hydrodynamics, structural integrity, marine energy and sustainable marine technologies. Students benefit from dedicated academic support, career services that connect them with employers, and a campus located in Glasgow with strong maritime and engineering business networks in the region and internationally.