Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering

The Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering program at the University of Michigan is a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate curriculum designed to prepare students for pioneering careers in the design, construction, and maintenance of ships, boats, and other marine vessels. This program combines a solid foundation in engineering principles with specialized knowledge of marine systems, hydrodynamics, structural analysis, material science, and marine propulsion. Students will gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, design projects, and internships that span the renewable energy sector, defense, commercial shipping, and recreational boating industries. The curriculum emphasizes innovative problem-solving, sustainable design practices, and environmental considerations critical to modern marine engineering challenges. Interdisciplinary coursework integrates mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, enabling graduates to develop sophisticated solutions for complex maritime problems. The program also offers opportunities for research collaborations with leading faculty and industry partners, fostering a deep understanding of cutting-edge technologies such as autonomous ships, green propulsion systems, and renewable energy integration. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized marine technical laboratories and simulation tools, students are well-prepared to contribute to advancements in naval architecture and marine engineering. Graduates of this program are highly sought after in various sectors, including maritime transportation, defense, offshore energy, and environmental protection, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead sustainable innovations in the maritime industry. The University of Michigan’s commitment to excellence in education, combined with its strong industry connections and experiential learning opportunities, ensures that students are ready to meet the evolving demands of the global maritime sector upon graduation.

Graduate students in the Master of Science degree program may choose from two options to fulfill degree requirements:

• Master of Science and Engineering (M.S.E.) - A traditional course work option (30 credits of coursework).
• Master of Science (M.S.) - A master's thesis option (24 credits of coursework and 6 credits of Research Thesis).

 The Thesis option is available to students who wish to include a research experience as part of their graduate program.  A 6 credit hour, written research thesis under the  supervision of and approved by at least one NAME faculty is  required as part of the 18 credits in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.

Applicants must submit a complete application, transcripts of all previous academic records, and Graduate Record Examination scores. TOEFL or MELAB scores are required of international students. They must meet the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Engineering (naval architecture and marine engineering) at this campus, or the essential equivalent to these requirements. Applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree in naval architecture and marine engineering may need to take prerequisite courses in addition to the thirty hours required for the master's degree.

The Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering program at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor offers a comprehensive and rigorous educational experience designed to prepare students for careers in designing, constructing, and maintaining ships, submarines, offshore structures, and other marine vessels. The program combines coursework in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and specialized marine engineering topics, providing students with a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, materials science, and engineering principles relevant to marine environments.

Funding for students enrolled in this program can be obtained through various sources. Undergraduate students may qualify for institutional scholarships based on academic merit, involvement in extracurricular activities, or financial need. The university offers a range of merit-based scholarships, including the Presidential Leadership Scholarship and the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Fellowship, which can significantly offset tuition costs. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding through national and private organizations such as the Naval Architects and Marine Engineers Foundation, which provides scholarships for students pursuing careers in marine engineering fields.

Graduate students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering have access to multiple forms of financial support. These include research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships offered through the university's Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. These assistantships typically cover tuition fees and offer a monthly stipend, enabling students to focus on their research or teaching responsibilities. Graduate students are also eligible to apply for external fellowships from agencies like the Office of Naval Research or the American Society of Naval Engineers, which provide additional financial assistance.

Furthermore, the university provides loan programs for qualified students to help bridge funding gaps. Federal student loans, such as Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS Loans, are available, with terms and interest rates set by federal regulations. Many students also participate in work-study programs that offer part-time employment opportunities on campus, supporting additional income to cover living expenses.

International students enrolled in the Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering program can access similar financial support options, although they may have specific eligibility requirements. They are encouraged to explore scholarships designated for international students and to seek funding through external sources such as international foundations or government-sponsored programs.

Overall, the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor is committed to providing robust financial support mechanisms to enable talented students to pursue their educational goals in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Prospective and current students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office and departmental resources regularly to stay informed about available funding opportunities, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria. While the specifics of each funding source vary annually and by student circumstances, the university's diverse offerings aim to reduce financial barriers and promote academic excellence and research innovation in marine engineering fields.

The Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the University of Michigan is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of ships and marine structures. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in engineering principles, naval architecture, fluid mechanics, materials science, and marine systems with hands-on experiences through laboratories and practical projects. Students learn about ship stability, hydrodynamics, marine propulsion, offshore structures, and ship design, gaining the technical knowledge required to innovate and improve maritime transportation and marine resources.

The program emphasizes the integration of engineering fundamentals with real-world applications, encouraging students to develop problem-solving skills and a strong understanding of marine environments. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized laboratories for fluid dynamics, material testing, and ship modeling. The program also promotes interdisciplinary learning, collaborating with departments such as mechanical engineering and civil engineering to broaden students' perspectives.

Internships and cooperative education opportunities are strongly encouraged, providing students with industry exposure and practical experience in shipyards, marine engineering firms, and maritime agencies. The faculty comprises renowned researchers and industry professionals dedicated to mentoring students and advancing marine technology.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to enter careers in ship design, marine systems engineering, offshore engineering, and related fields. They also have a solid foundation for continued education in graduate studies or professional engineering licensure. The program reflects the university's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the maritime industry, preparing students to contribute to the development of safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible marine vessels and structures.