University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme builds on core naval architecture principles and emphasises advanced analytical, computational and experimental techniques. Teaching is delivered through lectures, laboratory classes, design projects and an independent research dissertation.

• Ship hydrostatics and stability: advanced intact and damaged stability, hydrostatic coefficients and regulatory frameworks.
• Hydrodynamics and seakeeping: resistance, propulsion, wave-ship interactions, seakeeping and manoeuvring techniques.
• Computational methods and CFD: numerical methods for potential flow and viscous CFD, meshing strategies, verification and validation.
• Structural analysis and materials: ship structural design, fatigue and fracture, finite element analysis and material selection for marine environments.
• Offshore engineering and marine systems: design considerations for offshore platforms, moorings, dynamic positioning and marine renewable energy devices.
• Experimental methods and towing tank work: model testing, instrumentation, data acquisition and processing in towing tanks and wave basins.
• Ship design project: integrated design exercises covering concept development, arrangement, hydrostatics, resistance and powering, and production considerations.
• Research dissertation: an independent research project supervised by academic staff, allowing students to specialise in an area such as hydrodynamics, structures, CFD or offshore technology.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically a UK 2:1 or international equivalent) in naval architecture, mechanical engineering, marine or ocean engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus relevant industrial experience may be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements; applicants are advised to consult the School for the specific equivalent test scores accepted. Admissions tutors may also consider portfolio material or evidence of numerical and computational ability.

Career prospects

Graduates progress into technical and design roles across the marine sector. Typical employers and roles include:

• Shipyards and design offices — hull and ship designers, principal and concept designers.
• Offshore industry — structural and hydrodynamic engineers for oil, gas and offshore renewable projects.
• Naval and defence organisations — ship systems engineers, survivability and performance specialists.
• Classification societies and consultancies — surveyors, technical advisers and research consultants.
• Marine technology and renewable energy companies — device designers and performance analysts.
• Academic and industrial research — PhD study and research engineer positions focusing on advanced hydrodynamics, CFD, materials or experimental methods.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde has a long-established reputation in naval architecture and marine engineering, combining theoretical teaching with hands-on experimental facilities. Students benefit from access to specialised facilities, including towing tanks and model-testing equipment, and active research groups in hydrodynamics, structures and offshore systems.

Strathclyde maintains strong industry links with shipbuilders, offshore companies and maritime research organisations, providing opportunities for project collaborations, placements and guest lectures. The School’s emphasis on applied learning prepares graduates for professional practice, further research and career progression in a wide range of marine-related sectors.