University of Michigan

What you'll study

The NAME bachelor's programme combines core engineering fundamentals with specialist marine topics. Early years focus on mathematics, physics, materials and introductory engineering principles; later years emphasise hydrodynamics, structural analysis and system design for marine applications.

• Core engineering modules: calculus, differential equations, mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science and systems engineering.
• Hydrodynamics and fluids: fluid mechanics, ship hydrostatics and stability, seakeeping, manoeuvring and computational fluid dynamics (CFD).
• Structures and materials: ship structural analysis, finite element methods, fatigue and fracture, corrosion and marine materials selection.
• Propulsion and energy systems: naval propulsion, power systems, auxiliary machinery, and energy efficiency for vessels and offshore platforms.
• Design and laboratory work: CAD and marine design, towing tank and towing/propulsion experiments, model testing, instrumentation and experimental methods.
• Systems and control: control systems for marine vehicles, autonomous surface/subsurface vehicle concepts and integrated ship systems.
• Capstone design project: multidisciplinary team project addressing a realistic ship or offshore-system design, often in collaboration with industry partners.

Elective options and research projects allow specialisation in areas such as offshore renewables, autonomous vessels, naval systems or polar and arctic engineering. Industry internships and laboratory modules on the University’s North Campus facilities and Great Lakes test venues are commonly integrated into the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification with strong performance in mathematics and physics. Typical preparation includes advanced-level calculus, physics and chemistry where available. Admissions evaluate academic record, teacher references and any relevant extracurricular experience in STEM or engineering projects.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through approved tests or qualifications. Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or other recognised advanced courses can be considered for placement or credit; prior experience in programming, CAD or experimental work is advantageous but not mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of marine-related careers. Common roles include:

• Naval architect or marine engineer in ship design offices and classification societies.
• Structural and hydrodynamics engineer at shipyards, defence contractors and offshore engineering firms.
• Engineers in offshore energy (fixed and floating wind, oil & gas platforms) and subsea systems.
• Positions in maritime operations, vessel performance optimisation, and ship management.
• Research and development roles at government laboratories, universities and private research centres; pathways to postgraduate study and PhD are also common.

Students benefit from the university’s industry links and career services for internships and graduate recruitment in maritime clusters, defence industries and renewables.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers an established NAME programme within a large engineering faculty, providing access to specialist laboratories, interdisciplinary collaboration and strong employer connections. Facilities supporting marine teaching and research include hydrodynamics and towing-test capabilities and structural testing labs that leverage the university’s proximity to the Great Lakes.

Students can combine marine studies with related fields such as naval engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace or environmental engineering, and join active student chapters of professional societies to gain practical experience. The programme emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, team design projects and industry engagement, preparing graduates for technical and leadership roles in the marine sector.