Solent University Opportunities

Hi everyone,

I’m a student at the landing school and I’m considering continuing for 2 years at Solent University to get a BEng degree in Yacht and Powercraft design. I’m wondering if anyone from the Solent program has gone on to work in the commercial naval architecture and marine engineering world as I understand it doesn’t mix well with the yacht industry. I’m finding myself more interested in the commercial engineering problem solving work than design. I’m wondering if it’s reasonable to go to Solent for 2 years and then take a MSc in marine engineering at Southampton University or other comparable programs. I notice many jobs posted on SNAME require a bachelors in naval architecture so I wonder if the BEng in yacht design would suffice or if I should get a masters. I’m 32 so I’m trying to balance minimizing additional time in education vs career prospects and job security.

Any thoughts are appreciated

Welcome to the Forum Sharpie.

sharpiedory said:

I notice many jobs posted on SNAME require a bachelors in naval architecture so I wonder if the BEng in yacht design would suffice or if I should get a masters.

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I attended Solent University 40 years ago, when it was the Southampton College of Higher Education, and I got an HND in Naval Architecture then.
At the time they were also running a Diploma course in Yacht & Boat Design, but this is now the BEng course, which is much more substantial.
I would think that a BEng in Yacht Design from Solent University will certainly satisfy any of the jobs on SNAME that require a bachelor's degree in naval architecture.
Go for it, and then decide later on if you really want to do a Masters degree in (eg) Marine Engineering.

Thank you Bajansailor, nice to hear from an alumnus.

Sent me your email in PM, fellow alumni from both programs, would love to chat.

AAD0006 said:

Sent me your email in PM, fellow alumni from both programs, would love to chat.

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thank you!

I worked with a Solent B.S. grad (in yachts, as I recall) for a couple of years in the offshore oil industry (a long time ago - during Maggie) and I was quite impressed with his capabilities.

Reminds me of when I was weighing my options at Oxford Academy. Balancing time in education with career prospects is definitely a tough decision, especially at 32. It sounds like you have a clear vision of what you want to pursue in the marine engineering world. Taking the route of continuing at Solent for two years and then pursuing a MSc at Southampton University sounds like a solid plan.