Marine Engineering BEng
Study of how ships, submarines, offshore structures, and marine propulsion systems are designed, powered, & maintained: from diesel engines & turbines to renewable ocean tech.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in ships and marine systems
Enjoy engineering
Like practical and technical work
Want a career at sea or in marine industries
Are adventurous
Popular Career Fields
Shipping & Maritime
Engineering & Construction
Oil & Gas Industry
Aerospace & Defence
Your Personality Might Be:
Adventurous spirit
Engineering & Construction
Problem-solver
Resilient worker
What is it?
What is Marine Engineering?
Marine Engineering focuses on the mechanical, electrical, and structural systems that allow vessels and offshore facilities to operate safely and efficiently. It brings together mechanical engineering, power systems, fluid mechanics, materials science, and maritime technology.
You’ll learn how propulsion systems work (including diesel engines, gas turbines, electric drives, and hybrid systems), how ships are designed for stability and performance, and how onboard systems such as pumps, hydraulics, electrical networks, and navigation equipment function.
The field also covers emerging marine technologies such as autonomous ships, clean propulsion, offshore wind, and ocean energy.
Why Study Marine Engineering?
If you’re interested in ships, offshore engineering, mechanical systems, or renewable ocean energy, Marine Engineering is a rewarding and globally relevant degree. The marine and maritime industries are essential to world trade, transport, defence, and energy, and require highly skilled engineers to innovate and maintain critical systems.
You’ll gain hands-on experience with engines, marine equipment, mechanical systems, and engineering analysis, while exploring technologies that are making shipping safer, cleaner, and more efficient.
Course Summary
Study of how ships, submarines, offshore structures, and marine propulsion systems are designed, powered, & maintained: from diesel engines & turbines to renewable ocean tech.
What you'll study
Marine Engineering degrees often cover:
Engineering mathematics and physics
Thermodynamics, heat transfer, and power cycles
Marine propulsion (diesel, gas turbines, electric & hybrid systems)
Fluid mechanics and ship hydrodynamics
Naval architecture basics (hull design, stability, resistance)
Marine electrical systems and control systems
Materials and corrosion in marine environments
Marine auxiliary systems (pumps, compressors, hydraulics)
Safety engineering and maritime regulations
Offshore engineering and renewable ocean technologies
CAD, simulation, and modelling tools
Later in your degree, you may specialise in:
Marine propulsion and power engineering
Offshore energy and structures
Naval architecture and hydrodynamics
Autonomous marine vehicles
Sustainable and low-carbon marine technologies
Marine operations and shipboard engineering
Skills You'll Gain
A Marine Engineering degree builds strong technical and professional skills, including:
Propulsion engineering – understanding engines, turbines, and power systems.
Fluid dynamics & hydrodynamics – analysing ship motion and water resistance.
Electrical and mechanical integration – designing shipboard systems.
Materials & corrosion knowledge – working with harsh marine environments.
System diagnostics and maintenance – essential for marine operations.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Marine Engineering graduates are needed across:
Shipping and maritime operations
Naval defence and government agencies
Shipbuilding and marine equipment design
Offshore oil, gas, and renewable energy
Ocean research and environmental monitoring
Port authorities and marine consultancies
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Industry placements with shipping companies, naval organisations, or offshore engineering firms
Internships in shipbuilding, marine technology, or energy companies
Opportunities to work with marine research groups
Visits to shipyards, ports, and marine energy facilities
These experiences give you hands-on engineering exposure and valuable professional insight.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Maths and Physics. Design Technology, Further Maths, or Geography are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show interest in ships, offshore engineering, mechanical systems, or energy technologies.
Mention hands-on experience with engines, robotics, CAD, or mechanical/electrical projects.
Reflect on problem-solving, teamwork, and technical curiosity.
Highlight relevant experience such as sailing, engineering clubs, or practical workshops.
What to do Next
Compare programmes to see whether they focus on propulsion, offshore engineering, naval architecture, or renewable energy.
Attend open days or virtual tours to explore marine labs and simulators.
Try online tutorials in CAD, fluids, engineering maths, or marine systems.
Follow developments in clean shipping, ocean renewables, and naval technology.
Wider Reading
Introduction to Marine Engineering — D. A. Taylor
A beginner-friendly overview of ship propulsion, machinery, and onboard engineering systems.General Engineering Knowledge (Marine Engineering) — H. D. McGeorge
Introduces core mechanical and operational principles used in marine engineering.Marine Auxiliary Machinery — H. D. McGeorge
Explains pumps, compressors, refrigeration, and other essential ship support systems.Reeds Vol 8: General Engineering Knowledge for Marine Engineers — Leslie Jackson et al.
Covers foundational engineering topics commonly taught in UK marine engineering courses.Reeds Vol 6: Basic Electrotechnology for Marine Engineers — Christopher Lavers
Introduces electrical principles and systems used on modern ships.