University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme combines engineering fundamentals with applied maritime practice to prepare students for technical leadership roles in ship operation and maintenance. You study core topics in ship systems and structure, condition monitoring and reliability, regulatory and safety frameworks, and asset management, and you complete a major research or industry project that addresses a practical ship-management challenge.

• Ship structure and construction – principles of hull form, materials and fabrication, common structural defects and repair strategies.
• Marine machinery and propulsion systems – diesel and alternative propulsion technologies, auxiliary systems, automation and control.
• Condition monitoring and reliability – techniques for vibration analysis, oil analysis, non-destructive testing and predictive maintenance planning.
• Ship performance and fuel management – ship resistance and powering, trim and ballast optimisation, energy-efficiency measures and emissions compliance.
• Regulation, safety and environmental protection – international conventions (e.g. SOLAS, MARPOL), the ISM Code, Port State Control and industry safety management practices.
• Ship operations and fleet management – maintenance planning, dry-docking strategies, spare parts logistics and budgeting for technical management.
• Project and asset management – risk assessment, project planning and execution for refits, conversions and upgrades, with commercial considerations.
• Research or industry project – an independent dissertation or applied project carried out with academic supervision or in partnership with an employer, addressing a real technical ship-management problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience in shipboard or shore-based technical roles may also be considered, typically supported by evidence of responsibilities and technical competence. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English to the level required by the University.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into technical and managerial roles across the maritime industry. Typical positions include:

• Technical superintendent or technical manager at ship-management companies
• Fleet/plant manager responsible for maintenance strategy and dry-docking
• Marine surveyor or condition-monitoring specialist with classification societies or inspection companies
• Offshore and renewables technical specialist managing vessel and equipment integrity
• Shipyard or repair project engineer and technical lead for conversions and refits
• Roles in shipping operations, insurance loss prevention and regulatory compliance

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a long-established reputation in naval architecture and marine engineering, with strong links to shipyards, classification societies and shipping companies. The department offers access to dedicated laboratory facilities, simulation tools and experienced industry-focused academic staff. The programme emphasises applied learning and industry relevance, and the University’s location and alumni network provide good opportunities for collaboration, placements and professional contacts within the UK and international maritime sectors.