University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

The programme blends core marine engineering topics with modules addressing autonomous systems, sensor integration and vehicle control. Typical taught modules cover marine propulsion and power systems, ship and subsea systems, hydrodynamics and seakeeping, and structural considerations for marine vehicles. Specialist modules focus on autonomy and control — for example guidance, navigation and control (GNC) for marine vehicles, sensor fusion and perception, real-time embedded systems, communications and autonomy architectures for unmanned surface and underwater vehicles.

Learning is delivered through lectures, laboratory classes and computer-based simulation. Practical work uses specialist facilities and software for propulsion and powertrain testing, control-system development and hydrodynamic modelling. The programme normally includes a substantial group design or systems-integration project and an individual research project or dissertation, where students take a lead role in developing an autonomous marine vehicle concept, prototyping a control or perception subsystem, or conducting experimental or numerical research relevant to autonomy at sea.

• Marine propulsion and power systems
• Hydrodynamics and seakeeping for small and large vessels
• Ship and subsea systems engineering
• Guidance, navigation and control of marine vehicles
• Sensor systems and sensor fusion (radar, LiDAR, acoustic, inertial)
• Embedded systems and real-time software for autonomy
• Communications, networking and maritime situational awareness
• Systems integration, safety and regulatory considerations for unmanned systems
• Group design project and individual MSc dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in engineering, naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, robotics or a closely related discipline. A UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or an international equivalent is typically required; applicants with a lower second-class degree and relevant professional experience may be considered.

Candidates should demonstrate competence in mathematics, dynamics and basic control or programming. Relevant industrial experience in marine or autonomous systems, project work or research can strengthen an application. International applicants will need to meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles where marine engineering knowledge and autonomy skills intersect. Typical employers include shipowners and shipyards, offshore energy and subsea companies, designers of autonomous surface and underwater vehicles, systems integrators, sensor and control suppliers, and technology startups developing maritime autonomy solutions. Other career destinations are classification societies, maritime regulators, research institutes and further doctoral research.

Job roles taken by alumni include marine systems engineer, autonomy engineer, control systems engineer, vehicle integration engineer, research and development engineer, and technical consultant in maritime autonomy and offshore systems.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a long-established department specialising in naval architecture, marine and offshore engineering with strong links to the shipbuilding, offshore energy and maritime technology sectors. The university combines taught expertise with practical facilities and research groups working on hydrodynamics, propulsion, sensors and autonomy, providing opportunities for hands-on laboratory work and industry-aligned projects.

Students benefit from industry engagement through collaborative projects, guest lectures and networking with local and international marine technology companies. The programme is designed to equip graduates with both the marine engineering fundamentals and the contemporary autonomy skills sought by employers in the rapidly developing area of unmanned and autonomous marine systems.