Undergraduate course

BEng (Hons)

Marine Technology (Top-Up)

Top up your qualifications with this one-year BEng (Hons) course. Explore marine engineering, naval architecture, and problem-solving across industries. Gain skills through labs, industry-linked staff, and hands-on learning.

Cutting-edge facilities

Access to innovative labs and equipment in the new Babbage Buildings, so you graduate with sought-after knowledge and experience.

Hands-on learning

We offer the latest industry-standard software, laboratory sessions and practical classes.

Specialist pathway

An optional "with composites" pathway lets students specialise in designing and manufacturing advanced materials.

About

Captivated by the technical side of the marine environment? At Plymouth, you will develop skills in the fundamentals of core engineering, marine engineering and naval architecture; benefit from laboratory sessions, taught by enthusiastic staff with strong industry links; and start your journey to becoming a qualified Naval Architect.


Dr Jahir Rizvi
Dr Jahir Rizvi
Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering
Students from the BSc (Hons) Marine and Composite Technology and BEng (Hons) Marine Technology students were challenged to design a boat that was then tested in the wave flume of the University’s Marine Building

This course is for you if...

you want to top up your existing academic qualifications to achieve BEng (Hons) level degree
Three arrows pointing upwards
you envision yourself in an industry that spans the globe, tackling challenges in marine engineering, renewable energy, or naval architecture
Wind turbine
you seek hands-on experience in projects to put your learning into practice
Hand holding two cogs
you're keen to learn from industry-experienced professionals and researchers
Three individuals linked by arrows, depicting collaboration

Details

Final year

You will deepen your understanding of naval architecture and marine engineering. You will also focus your specialism choosing to further your understanding of computer aided engineering tools and systems design or choosing to study the theoretical and practical aspects of composites engineering on the 'with composites' pathway. Your dissertation project enables you to research the topics that interest you and will allow you to bring together all you have learnt so far.
Group of three students sat around a table – PALs session taking place in Babbage Building

Core modules

MARN341
Marine Engineering 20 credits

The module covers Marine Engineering including marine power plant, transmission, system efficiency and environmental factors, and Marine Systems Engineering exploring the aspects of marine engineering dynamic systems, design and analysis.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MARN342
Naval Architecture 2 20 credits

This module places engineering principles in the context of a hull and its features. The hull and the structural design concepts which are particularly applicable to marine crafts are developed, applied and analysed. Various types of marine vessels' fitness for purpose are studied for the design drivers used and the operational aspects considered.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

PRME310
Engineering Honours Project 40 credits

In this module students will carry out independent project work closely aligned to their programme of study. This will be carried out under the guidance of an appointed supervisor.

100% Coursework

Optional modules

CONT318
Control and Intelligent Systems Design 20 credits

This module explores the application of control engineering and artificial intelligence techniques in the design of engineering control systems.

70% Examinations

30% Coursework

MATS347
Composites Design and Manufacture 20 credits

The module provides an integrated approach to design, materials and processing selection for composite materials.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

MATS348
Composites Engineering 20 credits

This module introduces stress analysis and appropriate numerical methods and integrates the learning from the parallel module MATS347 in a practical assignment to produce a prototype composite component.

100% Coursework

MECH341
Computer Aided Engineering 20 credits

In this module, students learn to use two of the Computer Aided Engineering methods that are most commonly used in industry; finite volume Computational Fluid Dynamics (to solve fluid flow problems) and Finite Element Analysis (to solve structural problems). Students gain an overview of the theory that underpins these methods, and learn how to use a validation process to assess reliability of simulation results.

100% Tests

 
 
 
We are currently seeking accreditation from the, the , the and
Athena SWAN Silver Award logo

Athena Swan Silver

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics was awarded an Athena Swan Silver award in September 2024 which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing gender equality and success for all.

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

 
 
 

World-class teaching and research facilities

Our Marine Building provides some of the best research and testing facilities in the country, the world-class marine facility is a dedicated space for marine and engineering students as well as commercial clients.
The Marine Building contains a range of outstanding marine-focused facilities including our Coastal, Ocean and Sediment Transport (COAST) laboratory.
The COAST lab provides physical model testing with combined waves, currents and wind, offered at scales appropriate for device testing, array testing, environmental modelling and coastal engineering.

Babbage Building: where engineering meets design

The Babbage Building is home to the engineers of the future.
We’ve packed it with specialist equipment sourced from world-leading global companies. This includes a sub-sonic wind tunnel, an autonomous vehicle test laboratory, an energy and sustainability laboratory, high performance computing facilities, a digital fabrication laboratory, virtual engineering suites and much more.
Babbage building on a sunny day with blue skies, two people entering the building.
 
 
 

Learn from our experts

The School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics is a collaborative and interdisciplinary community of world-leading academics and researchers focused on creating knowledge and innovative solutions that positively impact society.
Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories and workshops.
Dr Jahir Rizvi Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering


Lecturer in Mechanical & Marine Engineering

Programme Leader
Dr Alexander Besinis Associate Professor in Mechanical and Medical Engineering


Associate Professor in Mechanical and Medical Engineering

Dr Pablo Borja Lecturer in Control Systems Engineering


Lecturer in Control Systems Engineering

Show all
 
 
 

Plymouth Engineering Society

The ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓÆµ Engineering Society's main aim is to provide a platform for engineering students at the university to meet, socialise with and learn from their fellow students. We aim to promote links across all engineering disciplines and between all year groups from foundation year to masters year.
We will be hosting socials and events throughout the year so come and get involved! Once you have your membership be sure to follow the society's social media to keep up to date with all activities, socials, and events.
Plymouth Engineering Society
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

The careers and employability service helped me tailor my CV to a high standard aimed specifically at engineering employers which helped me gain employment.

Nicholas, BEng (Hons) Marine Technology graduateÌý

Nicholas Parkes
We’re an employment-focused course: preparing you for your chosen career is our priority.
Whether you want to work in vessel design and construction, gas turbine manufacture or propeller design, we’ll support you throughout your degree to make sure you’re prepared and ready for your career in the marine industry.
Our graduates are highly skilled and highly employable. Throughout the course you’ll develop advanced skills in:
  • design: prototyping and testing, innovative problem solving, research and investigation
  • management: project management, quality management, team performance development
  • people skills: clear communication, cooperative teamwork, negotiating with clients and customers
  • CAD: computer-aided design using the latest software too.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Data for mechanical and marine engineering degrees at Plymouth.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Following an , the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓÆµ. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Level 5 qualifications

A Level 5 qualification (e.g. Foundation Degree, Higher National Diploma, Diploma of Higher Education) in an engineering or related subject.
Contact the admissions team for further advice.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
J618
Institution code
P60
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
UCAS course code
J618
Institution code
P60
Duration

1 year

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓÆµ.
Book your place
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