Marine Engineering in UK- Universities, Eligibility Criteria and more

Updated on 15 April, 2024

Neha Uppal

Neha Uppal

Sr. Content editor

Marine engineering in the UK is a field of engineering that specializes in the design, innovation, development, production, and maintenance of various types of equipment used as part of the internal systems of ships and sea vessels.

A wide range of engineering specialties, including control technology, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and engineering design, are combined in this field of study. The topic also intersects with fields like nautical science, oceanography engineering, and naval architecture.

Read on to learn about marine engineering in the UK eligibility, fees, subjects, and more. 

Reasons to Study Marine Engineering in the UK

Students will learn how to apply engineering principles to systems that keep docks, ships, and other oceanic entities operating when they take the course. Designing and evaluating propulsion, fuel cells, fluid dynamics, discrete mathematics, superconductivity, various engineering aspects of ship structures, vessels, and power supply systems to assist navigational and communication devices, foul-weather gear, engines, and various other types of marine tools are some of the major study areas.

This intensive course requires time, patience, dedication, and commitment from a student, just like any engineering program. One can pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in marine engineering. All of these courses will prepare one to design and assess marine equipment both on land and at sea, including yachts, commercial ships, passenger lines, and submarines. Various experts will teach the courses, and students will:

  • Study more complex topics relating to conventional ship design, as well as the variety of machinery and systems taught through case studies and problem-based learning.
  • Learn about transmission, heating and cooling systems, propulsion, and power and electrical systems.
  • Utilize a hands-on manufacturing methods module to gain practical experience.
  • Learn about controls, thermodynamics, fluids, mathematics, and business.
  • Develop a focus in their chosen field of marine engineering or marine systems.

Marine Engineering in the UK Eligibility

A few key documents are required by each university at the time of marine engineering in UK admission and application. The documentation requirements vary depending on the engineering specialization and UK university students select. One can review the list of marine engineering in UK requirements below:

  • Grade: 32 International Baccalaureate
  • AAA in Math and Physics is typically required for admission.
  • Requirements for the English Language
  • IELTS overall 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0)

Top 5 Universities in the UK for Marine Engineering

The following are the top universities for marine engineering in UK subjects, fees, courses, and course duration:

University QS World University Ranking 2023 Course name Duration Average Tuition fees
University of Aberdeen =220 Offshore engineering 2.5 years £13,200
Imperial College London =6 MSc Engineering Fluid mechanics for the Offshore 1 year £38,600 
Plymouth University 651-700 BEng (Hons) Marine Technology 3 years £16,300
University of Strathclyde =325 MSc Marine engineering 1 year £23,050
University of Southampton 78 Marine Engineering and Autonomy (MSc) 1 year £26000 

Marine Engineering in the UK Specialization

Anyone interested in a career in marine engineering must have completed a significant amount of engineering, science, and technology coursework. A marine engineering bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions involving fundamental designs and fluid dynamics. Big project management, electrical power systems, and material science are all topics covered in this field’s Masters and Doctoral programs. An advanced degree can enhance a marine engineering career. In the marine industry, management and executive positions can be attained with an MBA.

Marine engineering in UK universities offers a variety of specializations. The length of the courses offered at higher education engineering institutions in the UK ranges from 9 months to 5 years. The length of time depends on the specialization and degree level selected. The most common specializations chosen by students are

Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering:

This program aims to produce engineers who can handle a range of engineering difficulties in marine vehicles. Students majoring in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering gain the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully design, build, repair, and maintain naval architecture.

BEng Marine Technology

Students pursuing a BEng in Marine Technology will be able to design, build, and use tools across a range of industries.

Engineering design, engineering practice, experimental methods, engineering science, engineering mathematics, engineering materials, naval architecture, and thermo fluids are some of the specializations available

Master’s in Marine Engineering

A variety of engineering topics are covered in the MSc marine engineering program that is important to the development and acquisition of marine engineering. Additionally, the course will teach students how to apply their knowledge in an efficient and methodical way and how to use computers in advanced engineering.

Read More About Studying in UK

Buckinghamshire New University Leeds Trinity University Ulster University UK
Glasgow Caledonian University University of Southampton Brunel University London
Architecture colleges Liberal Arts University of Suffolk
Newman University University College Birmingham University of the Highlands and Islands

Scope of Marine Engineering in the UK

Engineering for boats, ships, oil rigs, and other seagoing structures is all included in the field of marine engineering, which also includes the study of ocean engineering. This area of engineering deals with integrating mechanical or electrical engineering theories and principles into marine vessels. It entails designing a ship or submarine and maintaining and repairing it. Oceanographic engineering or oceanic engineering are other names for it.

The Navy, shipyards, engine manufacturing businesses, shipbuilding businesses, ship design businesses, maritime universities, research institutions, and other organizations hire marine engineers. Other industries include.

  • Government, academia, or the private sector
  • Maritime engineering companies
  • Navy personnel
  • Oil and gas sectors
  • Companies that extract minerals
  • Firms that build boats and buildings
  • Transport businesses
  • Port facilities and scientific services
  • Marine advisory
  • Survey companies

Academic Cycle for Study in Marine Engineering in the UK

The largest population, breathtaking scenery, and a wide range of top universities are all found in the UK. Most international students in the nation choose to study in the UK. UK academic institutions have consistently occupied the top spots in global university rankings. The admission intakes for universities in the UK change throughout the year depending on the courses and admission requirements. 

If a student wants to enroll in the UK’s May Intake, they must apply as soon as the application forms are made available. Additionally, students should keep the following in mind when applying for the UK’s summer intake:

  • Make a list of all the colleges providing students for the April/May intake, along with the courses they are providing.
  • Make sure they remain mindful of the application form start date and deadline. For updates, check the university’s website frequently.
  • Before admission begins, take all of the required prerequisite tests.
  • When the applications are available, apply as soon as possible.
  • Wait for the confirmation letter after submitting the application, then apply for a student visa right away.

Cost of Attendance in the UK

Many undergraduates in the UK pay tuition costs that can reach £9,250 annually (the cost of education is capped by the government). International undergraduate tuition fees can differ significantly, starting at around £10,000 and rising up to £38,000 or more for medical degrees. It is important to be careful with the terminology because British higher education generally refers to fees rather than tuition. The tuition fees that universities in the UK are permitted to charge their students are set by the government, which also acts as the response regulator.

Cost of Living in the UK

For each month a student intends to spend in the UK outside of London, they must have at least £1,023 in their bank account, according to the current rules for student visas in the UK. This amounts to £12,276 a year.

Students will need to set aside significantly more money—at least £1,334 per month, or £16,008 annually—if they want to attend school in London.

By taking advantage of student discounts while one is here, one can lower the cost of living in the UK. For instance, London students can obtain an 18 Student Oyster photocard for 30 percent off travel and bus/tram season tickets, and students across the nation can apply for an NUS Extra Card for a small fee.

Top Recruiters of Marine Engineering in the UK

Shipbuilders, military contractors, oil and gas exploration firms, engineering consultancies, shipping lines, and yacht designers are just a few of the industries that require marine engineers. Top recruiters of marine engineers are:

  • Elite Employee Ltd 
  • Recruit Mint Ltd 
  • Catfoss Engineering Recruitment Ltd 
  • Electus Recruitment Solutions 
  • Recruitment South East Ltd

Career Prospects in Marine Engineering

Given below are the top career prospects of marine engineering.

  • Marine engineer
  • Breakdown Coordinator
  • Designing firms 
  • Research firms
  • Navy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the United Kingdom a good place to study marine engineering?

The UK has one of the best naval architecture and marine engineering universities. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available in marine engineering.


 

What are marine engineer’s primary responsibilities?

Engineering teams, including designers, mechanics, and construction personnel, are trained and managed. Other responsibilities include performing repairs on marine machinery and vehicles. Investigating, identifying, and carrying out efficient repairs for technical problems.


 

How long are marine engineers stationed offshore?

Normally, a marine engineer or navigating officer would spend 4 to 6 months on board a ship, and after their tour of duty is complete, they are entitled to 2 to 3 months of vacation time equal to the time they spent on board.


 

What competencies do marine engineers require?

Students need strong math and problem-solving abilities to succeed as marine engineers. Additionally, they must have computer expertise, particularly with CAD software. When giving instructions, one should be able to communicate clearly and enjoy doing hands-on work.

 

 

 


 

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Neha Uppal

Sr. Content editor

Neha Uppal is a passionate content creator and editor. She carries 7.5+ years of experience working with leading edutech companies where she worked as a Faculty, Community Manager, and Content Marketeer. At upGrad, she is helping out people keep informed about the scopes and opportunities of studying abroad via informational articles/blogs.

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