Marine Engineering

Marine Engineering is a dynamic and vital discipline that underpins the operation and maintenance of ships, submarines, and other marine vessels. It involves the design, development, installation, and maintenance of the machinery and systems that power and control these vessels. A qualification in Marine Engineering opens up a world of exciting opportunities both onshore and offshore, in industries ranging from commercial shipping to naval defense and offshore oil & gas.
Our Marine Engineering qualifications have been designed in collaboration with colleges, higher education institutions, and sector skills councils. They offer a pathway for individuals to progress to university degrees and cover levels 3 to 7.
Our Marine Engineering programs are structured to provide students with a solid foundation in engineering principles, practical skills, and industry-specific knowledge to excel in their careers. Each level is designed to progressively build expertise and prepare learners for increasingly responsible roles in the marine industry
These qualifications provide the flexibility for learners to choose from a variety of optional units at each level. This allows them to specialize in specific areas while also gaining the essential core knowledge necessary for all managers.
- Develop a solid understanding of core marine engineering principles:
The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and engineering sciences as they apply to marine environments. This foundation enables students to analyze and solve complex problems related to ship systems, propulsion, and marine operations. - Gain proficiency in marine system design, diagnostics, and analysis:
Students will learn how to design, install, operate, and maintain mechanical and electrical systems found on vessels. They will also develop the ability to use engineering analysis tools and simulation software to assess system performance and identify faults. - Acquire knowledge of marine machinery, propulsion, and ship construction:
The curriculum covers key subjects such as marine diesel engines, ship construction, fluid mechanics, thermofluids, and hydromechanics. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of how ships function and how marine engineering supports their safe and efficient operation. - Develop practical skills through hands-on training and lab work:
Practical training is a core component of the program, including workshops, engine room simulations, machine shop exercises, and lab experiments. These experiences help students build the technical skills necessary for working with complex shipboard systems. - Foster teamwork and effective communication in a maritime context:
Marine engineering often involves working in multidisciplinary teams on board ships or within maritime facilities. Students will develop collaboration skills and learn to communicate technical ideas clearly using standard marine terminology. - Enhance problem-solving, analytical thinking, and leadership abilities:
Through technical coursework and project-based learning, students will develop strong analytical and leadership skills. They will be trained to assess engineering challenges critically and implement practical, innovative, and cost-effective solutions. - Understand safety, environmental, and regulatory aspects of the marine industry:
The program places strong emphasis on marine safety, pollution prevention, and international regulations (such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW). Students will be equipped to work responsibly and ethically within the marine environment. - Prepare for a successful global career in marine and offshore engineering:
This program prepares students for a wide range of careers both at sea and onshore. Graduates will be equipped with the technical expertise and maritime knowledge required by shipping companies, naval operations, offshore industries, ports, and maritime consultancies.
Upon successful completion of the Marine Engineering program, graduates are presented with a wide range of career opportunities across the global maritime, offshore, and engineering sectors. The program equips students with the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in diverse roles within marine operations, ship management, and marine system design and maintenance.
Potential career paths include marine engineer, shipboard engineer, marine systems designer, offshore engineer, marine maintenance engineer, naval architecture assistant, marine surveyor, technical superintendent, marine control systems specialist, project engineer/manager, and more.
Graduates can explore employment opportunities in shipping companies, offshore oil and gas platforms, naval and defense organizations, shipbuilding and repair yards, marine equipment manufacturers, port authorities, marine consultancies, and environmental and regulatory bodies.
Additionally, graduates may choose to pursue advanced studies at the postgraduate level in fields such as naval architecture, ocean engineering, marine electronics, or maritime business and law. The qualification also provides a strong foundation for those interested in entrepreneurship within the maritime industry or seeking international employment opportunities in a highly specialized and globally connected field.
Course Details

Level 3- Diploma in Marine Engineering
Course Overview:
The Level 3-Diploma in Marine Engineering is a foundational program designed to introduce students to the core concepts and practices within the marine engineering field. This qualification focuses on developing essential knowledge in engineering principles, mathematics, science, and workshop skills tailored specifically for the maritime environment. Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical training, students gain a solid understanding of marine construction, safe working practices, and electrical and mechanical fundamentals. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared to either enter entry-level marine engineering roles or pursue further education.
Equivalences:
The Level 3-Diploma in Marine Engineering is equivalent to an A-level qualification in the United Kingdom and serves as a stepping stone for higher education or apprenticeships in the marine or maritime engineering sectors.
Course Contents:
- Engineering Drawing
- Communication English
- Mathematics-1
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Basic Electricity
- Basic Workshop Practice
- Business Improvement Techniques
- Principles of Marine Construction
- Safe and Effective Working in the Marine Industry.
Assignment Criteria:
Assessment is primarily based on assignments. Learners must successfully complete all required units and participate in a final interview for each unit to confirm authenticity of their work.
Entry Requirements:
- Minimum age of 16 years
- Completion of O-level/10th Standard or equivalent
- Level 2 qualification in a related field (preferred)
- English language proficiency
Course Duration:
Recommended course duration is 1 year, with flexibility to extend based on individual learning needs.
Note: However the course duration may be increased to meet additional learning needs if required.
Level 4-Diploma in Marine Engineering
Course Overview:
The Level 4-Diploma in Marine Engineering builds upon foundational knowledge and introduces students to specialized marine systems and technologies. It emphasizes hands-on skills in installation, diagnostics, and maintenance of engines, propulsion systems, and vessel services. The course also covers theoretical concepts in mechanics, marine pollution prevention, and watchkeeping duties, equipping students with the practical and theoretical tools needed to operate and maintain shipboard machinery.
Equivalences:
This diploma is equivalent to the first year of a university degree in the UK and prepares learners for mid-level roles in marine engineering or further academic progression.
Course Contents:
- Installation and Repair of Vessel Services
- Installation, Fault Diagnosis and Repair of Marine Engines
- Installation and Repair of Marine Propulsion Systems
- Engine Watchkeeping, Engine Officers
- Marine Pollution and Prevention
- Mechanics and Hydromechanics
- Marine Vocabulary and Terms
- Marine Power Plant and Diesel
- Fuel Oils and Lubricants
- Calculus
Assignment Criteria:
Assessment through project-based assignments and interviews to ensure individual competency.
Entry Requirements:
- Successful completion of Level 3-Diploma in Marine Engineering or equivalent qualification
- English language proficiency
Course Duration:
1 year (extendable based on learner’s pace and requirements)
Note: However the course duration may be increased to meet additional learning needs if required.
Level 5-Higher National Diploma in Marine Engineering
Course Overview:
The Level 5-Higher National Diploma (HND) in Marine Engineering provides an advanced education in marine machinery, systems, and operations. This program prepares students for supervisory and technical leadership roles, covering advanced topics such as ship stability, propulsion, accident investigation, and engineering materials. Learners also engage in programming and complex system analysis, gaining the versatility needed in today’s maritime engineering landscape.
Equivalences:
This diploma is equivalent to the second year of a university degree in the UK and is highly regarded for employment or university top-up programs.
Course Contents:
- General Physiology with Alcohol and Drug Prevention
- Advanced Ship Construction and Ship Stability
- Machine Shop
- Heat Balance
- Principles of Accident Investigations
- Marine Transmission and Propulsion System
- Marine Engineering – 1
- Engineering Materials
- Fluid Mechanics – 1
- Computer Programming for Engineers
Assignment Criteria:
Assessment is through coursework and evaluation interviews per unit.
Entry Requirements:
Completion of Level 4-Diploma in Marine Engineering or equivalent
Demonstrated competency in previous marine-related studies
Course Duration:
1 to 1.5 years depending on learning pace and institutional schedule
Note: However the course duration may be increased to meet additional learning needs if required.
Level 6-Graduate Diploma in Marine Engineering
Course Overview:
The Level 6-Graduate Diploma in Marine Engineering is a capstone program intended to refine and extend technical, analytical, and managerial skills. It focuses on high-level marine engineering systems, electrical and control systems, naval architecture, and thermofluids. Learners are encouraged to engage in independent engineering projects, preparing them for senior professional roles or postgraduate study.
Equivalences:
This qualification is equivalent to the final year of a bachelor’s degree and is suitable for those seeking advanced employment or academic opportunities in marine engineering.
Course Contents:
- Electrical and Magnetic Systems
- Thermofluidic Mechanics
- Engineering Materials
- Mechanics – 1
- Marine Engineering – 2
- Business and Law for Engineers
- Marine Electronics and Control Systems
- Naval Architecture
- Engineering Project
- Engineering Mathematics
Assignment Criteria:
Project and assignment-based assessments with presentations and interviews to validate learner’s independent work.
Entry Requirements:
- Completion of Level 5-HND in Marine Engineering or equivalent
- Strong academic record in marine and engineering disciplines
Course Duration:
1 year (extendable depending on learner’s pace and institutional policies)
Note: However the course duration may be increased to meet additional learning needs if required.