Our BSc mechanical engineering and marine programmes are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET); any student embarking on our courses are eligible to apply for a number of IET engineering scholarships. Amounts can vary between £1,000 and £3,000 per annum, and closing dates for applications are usually at the end of June. For more information on the different scholarships available, details on how to apply and confirmed closing dates for applications, please visit the IET Awards and Scholarships web pages.​

This course prepares students for careers in the engineering industry in a range of marine contexts – ships, boats, offshore support, marine renewable energy and many others. It attracts students with differing backgrounds, some with no marine experience but many who have a keen interest in sailing, power-boating and similar sports – Plymouth is ideally situated to enjoy these in your leisure time, either independently or with University sports clubs.

After covering the essential engineering studies, the course focuses on marine vessel design – large ships to small boats, leisure and commercial, sail and power. The latest industry-standard software and well-equipped laboratories are used in order to enhance skills and to develop a good understanding of fundamental principles. Key topics that you will study are vessel stability, resistance, propulsion and performance, equipment and structural integrity. Further skills in the use of composites materials and in general engineering design and problem solving are developed through the course, leading to well-rounded graduates who are highly adaptable and able to fill very rewarding positions across a range of industries.

After the second year of studies there is the option of a work placement year that provides valuable professional paid experience which may lead to sponsorship, a final-year project and future employment. Support is given to students seeking a suitable position.

The course carries Engineering Council Accreditation as the educational base for Incorporated Engineer.

Strong links to industry are important for any degree course. Our courses are highly respected throughout the industry with many of our former students occupying high-level positions. Most academic staff are also members of a number of professional bodies. This allows industrial and commercial expertise to be developed and encourages employers to come to Plymouth University to recruit our students.

 

Composite Production Engineer, Smiths AerospaceComposite

Kate Walsh, a student on the BSc (Hons) Marine and Composites Technology course has been offered a job upon graduation by the company she spent her placement year with. Kate, who is just about to enter her final year, has been working at BMT Defence Services in Bath as a Naval Architect.

“I have been involved in direct work as well as research and development projects. I have also been lucky enough to attend two ship visits. Direct work has included CAD work, ship stability calculations, tank plans, cable inspections and docking plans. I have been given the opportunity to thrive in the marine and defence industries at a friendly and extremely helpful company.. Working here has confirmed my career choice and I would recommend a placement year to any future student. I have applied skills from university and I have learnt an incredible amount whilst being with BMT.  The company has offered me a position of Graduate Naval Architect on finishing university, which I am extremely excited about and grateful for, I cannot wait to start!"