
A marine engineering program is designed to prepare students for a career in the design, construction, and operation of ships, boats, and offshore platforms. This field requires a strong foundation in engineering principles, as well as knowledge of materials, mechanics, and thermodynamics.
Marine engineers study a wide range of subjects, including naval architecture, marine systems, and ocean engineering. They also learn about the design and operation of shipboard systems, such as propulsion, steering, and electrical systems.
The curriculum for a marine engineering program typically includes coursework in math and science, as well as specialized courses in marine engineering. Students also gain hands-on experience through laboratory experiments and internships.
Graduates of a marine engineering program are qualified to work on a variety of vessels, from commercial ships to naval vessels and offshore platforms.
About the Program
The certificate program in Marine engineering is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the field. It offers two tracks: Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.
Students can expect to earn credits that are transferable to the Master's degree program in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. This can be a great opportunity for those who want to further their education and advance their careers.
The program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Credits earned in this program will be transferable to the Master's degree program in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Curriculum and Courses
The curriculum for a marine engineering degree is comprehensive and includes courses in power cycles, principles, and energy conservation methods. UCL Mechanical Engineering offers a postgraduate degree that is highly regarded by employers worldwide.
You'll have the chance to study at a top-ranked university, such as UCL, which is ranked 9th in the QS World University Rankings 2025. This means you'll get a prestigious qualification that opens doors to exciting career opportunities.
The degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST) and the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA), which means you'll meet the further learning requirements to register as a Chartered Engineer.
Four-Year Track

The Four-Year Track is an academically rigorous program that features naval architecture and marine engineering courses. You'll gain hands-on experience working with marine systems through two industrial co-ops, and experience aboard the training ship, State of Maine.
This program will equip you for a broad range of shoreside careers in marine and mechanical engineering fields. You'll be eligible to sit for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, your first step to becoming a professional engineer.
The curriculum for the Four-Year Track is divided into several semesters, each with its own set of courses. Here's an overview of the courses you can expect to take:
The program culminates in a Capstone Design Project, where you'll apply the skills and knowledge you've gained throughout your studies to a real-world engineering challenge.
Comprehensive Curriculum
A comprehensive curriculum is crucial for a marine systems engineering degree, and it's great to see that this program offers a wide range of courses to prepare students for their future careers.

The curriculum focuses on power cycles, principles, and energy conservation methods, which are essential for understanding the complex systems involved in marine engineering.
Students will also have the opportunity to take courses in naval architecture, maritime electrical engineering applications, and thermodynamics. These subjects are critical for designing and building safe and efficient marine vessels.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in engineering principles, including mathematics, science, and programming.
Here's a breakdown of the courses you can expect to take in a marine systems engineering program:
By the end of the program, students will have gained a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of marine systems engineering, as well as hands-on experience through internships or cooperative-education programs.
Career and Education
Employment of marine engineers and naval architects is projected to grow 9% through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
To pursue a career in marine engineering, you'll typically need a degree in engineering from a college that offers coursework in the marine field.

Naval architecture and marine engineering jobs require a Fundamentals of Engineering license, which can be obtained by passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam after 4 or more years of work experience.
Marine engineers can take a test to acquire a Professional Engineer license after gaining a Fundamentals of Engineering license and 4 or more years of work experience.
With a Professional Engineer license, you can oversee other engineers, develop designs and specifications, and oversee construction activities.
Recent graduates from Master's programs in marine engineering are now working at top organizations such as BAE Systems, BMT, and the Royal Navy.
Marine engineers are in high demand across many sectors and industries, including non-maritime industries, making it a great career choice.
A unique perspective: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
Degree and Accreditation
The Marine Engineering MSc is accredited by two prestigious organizations: the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST) and the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA). This accreditation ensures that the program meets the high standards required for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

To be eligible for full CEng registration, you'll need to hold a CEng accredited BEng/BSc (Hons) undergraduate first degree. This is a requirement that's taken seriously by the accreditation bodies.
The marine systems engineering degree at Maine Maritime Academy is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, which assures the program meets the quality standards of the engineering profession. This accreditation is a testament to the academy's commitment to delivering high-quality education.
The accreditation process involves a rigorous review of the program's curriculum, faculty, and facilities to ensure they meet the standards set by the accrediting bodies. This gives students confidence in the quality of their education.
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Career Options
Marine engineers and naval architects have a wide range of career options to choose from. The employment of marine engineers and naval architects is projected to grow 9% through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
If you're interested in a career in marine engineering, here are some options to consider:
- Engineering Technologist
- Environmental Engineer
- Naval Architect
- Marine Engineer
- Marine Systems Engineer
- Port Engineer
- Power Generation Engineer
- Engineering Officer
- Maritime Regulatory Specialist
- Marine Equipment Manufacturing
These careers offer a variety of paths for those interested in marine engineering, from designing and building vessels to working on environmental projects.
Career Outlook

As a marine systems engineering student, you're likely wondering about the career outlook. Employment of marine engineers and naval architects is projected to grow 9% through 2028, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
You'll have a wide range of job opportunities, including working as design engineers, research and development (R&D) engineers, and in other positions in marine engineering.
Job Profile
As a career option, being a naval architect or marine engineer can be a rewarding and challenging profession. You'll have the opportunity to work on designing and building boats, ships, and other marine structures.
Naval architects and marine engineers typically work along the coast, both offshore and on land, and their projects can range from large-scale energy production to small-scale off-grid systems. They're responsible for designing and maintaining a ship's or vessel's internal systems, such as propulsion, electrical, cooling, and steering systems.
Naval architects tend to have expertise in structural stability, hull strength, and designing machinery and cargo compartments. They also work with components like propellers, thrusters, and propulsors that help ships move in the water.

Marine engineers, on the other hand, focus on designing and selecting propulsion plants, specifying ancillary equipment, and working with piping systems and heating, ventilation, and cooling systems.
Some of the key tasks naval architects and marine engineers perform include inspecting marine equipment, conducting tests, designing and overseeing installations, and preparing technical reports. They also coordinate with regulatory bodies, prepare cost estimates, and maintain contact with contractors to ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
Here are some of the key tasks naval architects and marine engineers perform:
- Inspecting marine equipment and machinery
- Conducting environmental, operational, or performance tests
- Designing and overseeing the testing, installation, and repair of marine equipment
- Investigating and testing machinery and equipment to ensure compliance with standards
- Preparing technical reports and cost estimates
- Maintaining contact with contractors and regulatory bodies
- Presenting layout and engineering designs to clients and team members
- Supervising the design process and overseeing construction
- Performing quality control inspections and tests
- Ensuring adherence to safety precautions and project timelines
What Can You Do with a Systems Degree?
A systems degree can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Marine systems engineers can work as design engineers, research and development (R&D) engineers, and in other positions in marine engineering.
With a marine systems engineering degree, you can also serve in the United States Merchant Marine and in the military. In fact, students from Maine Maritime Academy are accepted into the nation's top graduate engineering schools.

You'll have a strong foundation in math and problem-solving skills, which are valuable in many industries. Engineering faculty at Maine Maritime Academy regularly consult with an industrial advisory committee to ensure their courses align with industry needs.
Some of the specific career options available to marine systems engineers include:
- Engineering Technologist
- Environmental Engineer
- Naval Architect
- Marine Engineer
- Marine Systems Engineer
- Port Engineer
- Power Generation Engineer
- Engineering Officer
- Maritime Regulatory Specialist
- Marine Equipment Manufacturing
These careers are not only challenging but also rewarding, and a marine systems engineering degree can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in them.
Career Options
You can pursue a variety of careers in marine engineering, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 9% growth in employment through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
The field offers a range of roles, including engineering technologist, environmental engineer, and marine engineer.
Some of the specific career options include:
- Engineering Technologist
- Environmental Engineer
- Naval Architect
- Marine Engineer
- Marine Systems Engineer
- Port Engineer
- Power Generation Engineer
- Engineering Officer
- Maritime Regulatory Specialist
- Marine Equipment Manufacturing
These careers involve designing, building, operating, and maintaining boats, ships, and other marine structures, as well as working on marine energy technologies such as wave and tidal power.
Cloud

Clouds don't have a direct connection to Marine Engineering, but I can tell you about the importance of clear skies for sailing. Clear skies are crucial for navigation and can greatly impact the success of a voyage.
You can earn a U.S. Coast Guard third assistant engineer, or engine, license while studying Marine Engineering. This license requires you to belong to the regiment of cadets and sail aboard the Empire State VI during summer sea term.
Entry Requirements
To be eligible for a Marine Engineering program, you'll typically need an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university in a suitable engineering subject, or an equivalent overseas qualification.
Knowledge of fluids and thermodynamics is essential, along with a basic understanding of electrical engineering.
Candidates with qualifications in other subjects like physics or professional engineering qualifications will also be considered.
Ideally, you'll have some experience in the maritime sector, but it's not a requirement.
You'll need to meet UCL's English language requirements, which can be found on their website.
If you're applying for a time-limited visa, you may need to obtain ATAS clearance, which can take up to six months to process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do marine engineers get paid well?
Yes, marine engineers are well-compensated professionals, with an average hourly pay of $42.93 in the United States. Their salaries reflect the high demand for skilled engineers in the marine industry.
How long does it take to become a Marine Engineer?
Becoming a Marine Engineer typically takes 3-4 years to complete a diploma or bachelor's degree program, or 3 years of sea experience plus passing a licensing test.
What does a maritime engineer do?
Maritime engineers design, develop, and evaluate marine vessels, ship machinery, and related equipment. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of power supply and propulsion systems.
Sources
- https://www.sunymaritime.edu/academicsundergraduate-programs/marine-engineering
- https://mainemaritime.edu/engineering/marine-systems-engineering/
- https://marine.tamu.edu/academics/undergraduate-majors/marine-engineering-technology.html
- https://www.odu.edu/academics/programs/certificate/naval-architecture-marine-engineering
- https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/taught-degrees/marine-engineering-msc
- https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/naval-architect-and-marine-engineer
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