- What is the focus of a Marine Engineering degree?
- What types of Marine Engineering degrees exist?
- What prerequisites are required for a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering?
- Can I get a Masters of Marine Engineering?
- What kind of classes do I take with a Marine Engineering degree?
- Can I obtain a Marine Engineering degree through online study?
- How long does it take to complete a Marine Engineering program?
- What are some of the jobs you can get with a Marine Engineering degree?
- On average, how much does someone earn who has a degree in Marine Engineering?
- Are there any associations that are for people who graduated with a Marine Engineer degree?
What is the focus of a Marine Engineering degree?
During the course of obtaining a marine engineering degree, you will learn how to apply the principles of engineering to systems that help seafaring vessels, docks and other aquatic entities function. This may include designing and evaluating propulsion and power supply systems to assist communication and navigational devices, engines, foul-weather gear and many other types of marine tools. Becoming a marine engineer takes time, patience, dedication, and commitment to your studies.
What types of Marine Engineering degrees exist?
You can study for a bachelors, masters or PhD in marine engineering, which will prepare you to design and evaluate sea-faring vessels and other equipment while on land. Alternatively, you can enroll in the United States Merchant Marines Academy and learn how to operate and care for a ship’s equipment with one of three degrees: Marine Engineering, Marine Engineering Systems, and Marine Engineering.
What prerequisites are required for a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering?
While every engineering school has slightly different requirements, in general, undergraduate applicants should have completed high school with excellent advanced science and math course grades. High ACT or SAT test scores are also helpful when applying for a program in marine engineering.
Can I get a Masters of Marine Engineering?
A Masters of Marine Engineering gives applicants a chance to explore a specific part of marine engineering in depth. Masters students might study:
- Ship Auxiliary Systems Design
- Marine Mining and Dredging
- Applied Marine Thermodynamics
- Hydrodynamics
- Numerical Simulation Techniques
What kind of classes do I take with a Marine Engineering degree?
Earning a Marine Engineering degree requires taking a large amount of math and science courses. Basic courses include:
- Engineering Analysis Principles
- Naval Architecture
- Wave Mechanics
- Fluid Mechanics
- Marine Structures
- Propulsion Systems
- Ship Dynamics
- Moored and Diving Systems
- Coastal and Offshore Structures
Can I obtain a Marine Engineering degree through online study?
Many schools offer online marine engineering degrees. When making your selection, ensure that your school of choice offers programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
How long does it take to complete a Marine Engineering program?
A four-year bachelor of science degree is sufficient to cover the basic concepts of marine engineering. Those wishing to learn more about a specific facet of the profession are advised to earn a masters (one to two more years), and possibly later a PhD (time varies widely). Certain colleges offer combined masters to PhD programs that help students earn post-graduate education degrees faster.
It should be noted that after finishing a bachelor’s degree, marine engineers typically take several U.S. Coast Guard licensing exams. After successfully passing the Third Assistant License Exam, engineers gain more experience before taking the Second Assistant license. After even more time in the field, marine engineers take the First Assistant license, followed by the Chief Assistant license.
What are some of the jobs you can get with a Marine Engineering degree?
Marine engineering graduates have a number of career options. They may choose to work as naval combat or propulsion engineers or marine equipment specialists. Becoming a marine systems, marine structural, or ship’s engineer is also a possibility. Others may find the job duties of a marine equipment specialist or hydrographic surveyor more to their liking.
Many companies hiring freshly graduated marine engineers provide hands-on training using new employees’ academic knowledge as a foundation. In general, undergraduate students are expected to take advantage of marine engineering-related work-study jobs and internships to improve their likelihood of being hired post-graduation.
Individuals with a masters or PhD in Marine Engineering usually aim for jobs in government or academia. Working for private design, engineering and architectural firms is also a popular choice. Potential jobs for those holding advanced Marine Engineering degrees include:
- Engineering Professor
- Submarine Engineer
- Shipyard Project Engineer
- Marine Operations Manager
On average, how much does someone earn who has a degree in Marine Engineering?
As of May 2012, the median annual wage for marine engineers is $88,100, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual salary is slightly higher, at $96,140. The marine engineering industry is projected to grow at the same average rate as all other occupations.
Are there any associations that are for people who graduated with a Marine Engineer degree?
The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers is an international organization for professionals with an education in maritime engineering and architecture.
