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Maritime Engineering Science: Yacht and High-performance Craft (MSc)

Maritime Engineering Science: Yacht and High-performance Craft (MSc) starting September 2025 for 1 year

About this course

On this Yacht and High-performance Craft engineering MSc degree you’ll specialise in the analysis, design and performance of yachts, small craft and high-performance vessels. You’ll also gain an understanding of the fixed and offshore structures that help them to function. You'll graduate with the specialist skills in maritime engineering science to design and analyse marine craft and structures.

This Maritime Engineering Science: Yacht and High-performance Craft MSc is one of 5 maritime engineering science specialisms you can study at the University of Southampton.

This master's degree covers the core subjects and in-depth knowledge of maritime engineering science for both design and analysis of marine craft and structures within the marine environment.

If you have a first degree in engineering, science or maths and are looking for a career in the maritime sector and yacht design degree to study, this could be the course for you. We'll also consider you if you have relevant experience.  You don’t need specialist knowledge of the subject, as we’ll teach you the fundamentals of ship science.

Specialist yacht engineering modules on this MSc programme, will give you a chance to explore the performance and design of a variety of high-performance small craft including: 

• planing craft 
• sailing yachts 
• hydrofoils 
• hovercraft 

You'll discover how to calculate a vessel's performance as you learn about common types of full-scale trials. You’ll gain key skills in areas like force balance, drag breakdowns, resistance approximations and stability. 

Through design-oriented work, you’ll find out how the basic mechanics in each case are applied – first through simplified scenarios and then through more complex engineering design. 

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes .

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

Dr Melike Kurt , an Assistant Professor leads this course.

Related pathways

If you'd prefer to study a different specialism, you can apply for one of our other MSc Maritime Engineering Science pathways:

• Advanced Computational Engineering  
• Marine Engineering and Autonomy
• Naval Architecture  
• Ocean Energy and Offshore Engineering

Accreditations

This master's programme is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) and the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) as meeting the academic requirement for Further Learning, for Chartered Engineer and Chartered Marine Engineer registration. Candidates must hold a BEng/BSc undergraduate first degree that is accredited for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration to comply with full CEng registration requirements.

Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA)

Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST)

Engineering Council

European Accreditation of Engineering Programmes (EAEP)

Using the towing tank in your ship science degree, learn more about this subject area.

• Maritime engineering

Towing tank

Wind tunnels

Course location.

This course is based at Boldrewood .

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

• Download ODT Download 2024-25 Course Description Document

Entry requirements

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in:

• marine or maritime engineering
• naval architecture
• ship science
• aerospace engineering
• mechanical engineering
• general engineering
• electrical engineering
• mathematics

You'll also need a 2:1 in maths and mechanics modules.

We may consider applicants with undergraduate degrees in oceanography or architecture, or applicants from marine academies. Find the  equivalent international qualifications  for your country. 

Information for students who have studied in China

This programme only accepts applicants who have studied at an X1, X2, X3 or X4 institution. 

View acceptable grades from Chinese universities .

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

IELTS score requirements

We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. Learn more about the programmes available .

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning. 

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview. 

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email:  [email protected] Tel:  +44(0)23 8059 5000

Course structure

This is a full-time master’s course studied over 12 months.

In the first 8 months (semesters 1 and 2) you'll study the taught part of your course.  

This is made up of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.  

For the last 4 months, over the summer, you’ll work independently to research and write your dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress.    You’ll carry out an experimental or numerical research project, and benefit from our  Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute (SMMI)  research network and our world-class maritime  engineering facilities , including the largest towing tank in any UK university.

Want more detail?  See all the modules in the course.

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes .

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules.

You must study the following modules :

Composites Engineering Design and Mechanics

This module provides an in depth coverage of the mechanics of fibre-reinforced polymer materials and structures. The core of the course encompass modelling of the 2D orthotropic lamina reduced from 3D continuum mechanics for anisotropic solids, classical ...

Fundamentals of Maritime Engineering

This fundamentals module is aimed primarily for the MSc students in Maritime Engineering Science and students on the MECH/Navel Engineering programmes. It provides them with the essential knowledge of Maritime Engineering required for their subsequent stu...

MSc Research Project

Within the context of your programme of study, students will undertake independent, original and critical research on a relevant topic. Students will then communicate the research objectives, methodology, analysis, results and conclusions effectively both...

Maritime Safety: Risk, Environment and Law

In view of the Engineering Council’s support for the development of engineering degrees that will equip students to become professional engineers, the module follows the European Network for Engineering Accreditation guidelines to contribute to graduate a...

Sailing Yacht and Powercraft Design

This module takes a practical approach primarily through assignment/project lead application of concepts of yacht design, applicable to both powered and sailing craft. Four assignments in areas of initial design, hull design, sailplan and rig development ...

Yacht and High Performance Craft

This module covers the performance and design of a variety of high performance small craft: namely semi-displacement, planing craft and catamarans as well as sailing yachts, hydrofoils and hovercraft. It will examine the basic mechanics and fluid dynamics...

You must also choose from the following modules :

Applications of CFD

The basic concept of Computational Fluid Dynamics and numerical procedures (FVM/FDM) are introduced. The major focus is practical applications, including geometry and grid generation, using solvers and turbulence models in CFD packages, and interpretation...

Design Search and Optimisation (DSO) - Principles, Methods, Parameterizations and Case Studies

This module introduces students to formal design search and optimization (DSO) approaches using a mixture of lectures covering theory and practice and a series of worked case studies with student participation.

Failure of Materials and Components

In this module, the emphasis moves away from alloy development and design, and focuses on the performance of structural materials in a range of engineering applications. The lectures draw on examples from applications of ceramics, steel, Al, Ti and Ni bas...

Finite Element Analysis in Solid Mechanics

Many real-world engineering structures are too complex for their behaviour to be understood using an ‘exact’ analytical or theoretical method alone. Therefore, in practice we often use approximate numerical or simulation-based tools for structural analysi...

Marine Hydrodynamics

This module extends the fundamentals of fluid mechanics in the context of naval architecture and ocean engineering including water waves and the fluid loading and motion of maritime structures and vessels in waves. Students will assess the concepts of add...

Marine Structures

This module extends the structural analysis principles to marine structural design and assessment, building on the fundamentals established in the previous “materials and structures” and “ship structural design and production” courses. Students will asses...

Maritime Robotics

This module introduces the theoretical and practical design of maritime robotics systems such as autonomous underwater and surface vehicles (AUVs, ASVs). Students will be introduced to the theoretical principles underlying their design including aspect...

Zero Carbon Ship Resistance and Propulsion

Maximising the propulsive efficiency of ships is key to their economic effectiveness and in minimising their emissions of CO2, NOx and SOx. Advances in ship performance require a detailed understanding of the fluid dynamic mechanisms which control the flo...

Learning and assessment

The learning activities for this course include: 

• lectures 
• classes and tutorials 
• coursework 
• individual and group projects 
• independent learning (studying on your own) 

We’ll assess you through: 

• coursework, laboratory reports and essays 
• a dissertation 
• essays 
• group essays 
• written exams 

Dissertation

You’ll carry out an original piece of research, resulting in a dissertation, on a subject of your choice (to be agreed with your supervisor). 

The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show in-depth knowledge of your chosen subject. 

Academic Support

You’ll be assigned a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor. 

The maritime sector provides varied career opportunities in engineering and project management related roles. Maritime engineering science graduates are in strong demand with good starting salaries and excellent career progression opportunities.    Our graduates work across many different organisations. The Solent region around Southampton is the main UK hub for the maritime sector with organisations such as: 

• Lloyd’s Register 
• Carnival 
• Nigel Gee 
• the Maritime and Coastguard Agency 

Organisations such BAE Systems, QinetiQ and Babcock support the defence sector and employ a number of our graduates. The offshore and marine renewable developments are offering excellent prospects both to work in the UK (locally, London or Aberdeen) or worldwide in places such as Singapore, Houston or Perth. 

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator,  Futureworlds
• a wide variety of  enterprise events  run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator,  SETsquared

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees.

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,250.
• EU and international students pay £31,500.

Check fees for other versions of this course .

If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.

Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.

Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on our tuition fees for overseas students page.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to  pay your tuition fees .

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

• accommodation costs
• living costs
• budgeting advice
• fees, charges and expenses regulations

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible .

Southampton Engineering Deans Postgraduate International Scholarship

A scholarship of £5,000 is available to international students studying for a postgraduate master’s in Engineering.

Find out more about the Southampton Engineering Deans International Scholarship , including eligibility and conditions.

Other postgraduate funding options

A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student .

• Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
• Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. . 
• Search for the course you want to apply for.
• Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
• Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions ).
• Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications .

Application deadlines

Uk students.

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.

If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page .

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

References are not required for this programme.

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application. 

If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our  Equality and Diversity Statement .

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Superyacht Design

Production Yacht Design

Custom Yacht Design

Dixon Yacht Design are an award-winning firm of Yacht Designers and Naval Architects who put forward an innovative, modern and sustainable approach.

MSc Sustainable Marine Craft and Superyacht Design

Why study a sustainable marine craft and superyacht design master's degree at Solent University

Discover latest techniques to develop new, sustainable superyacht and marine craft designs. Benefit from the combined expertise of Solent's yacht engineering team and Centre for Marine Sustainability.

• 0 years of yacht and powercraft design and production at Solent University
• £ 0 m investment in our campus and industry-standard facilities
• 0 th UK uni for sustained employment (LEO 2022)
• You'll have full access to industry-standard naval architecture software and CAD packages.
• The course combines the theoretical knowledge and practical design skills desired by employers.
• You'll be able to test the performance of your design using the University's 60m-long tow tank.
• Solent has a strong pedigree in yacht and powercraft design and production, delivering courses for 55 years.
• You'll be studying in the heart of the city of Southampton - close to the UK's top sailing areas and many design offices and production facilities. Southampton is also home to the UK's largest boat show.
• You'll hear from guest speakers from industry on current design developments, rule developments and current practice and help develop your design skills.
• You'll join established and globally recognised yacht design and production alumni, many of whom are major contributors to the design and production of some of the world’s leading marine craft brands and design offices for both leisure and commercial vessels.

Course overview

The MSc Sustainable Marine Craft and Superyacht Design course focuses on equipping you with the engineering knowledge and the analytical and practical technical design skills a future marine craft designer is expected to have on entering the leisure or commercial craft design and production industry, to design marine craft typically between 24 metres and 120 metres in length.

Alongside practical design projects, you will study naval architecture, structural design and system design. For all modules, your design must comply with relevant maritime statutory regulations and must have current sustainability and lifecycle requirements embedded within.

Working in Solent's marine design CAD suite, you will learn to use many commercially available drafting and modelling, and analytical software programs widely used across the marine design industry. You will use industry-standard hull lines fairing software to develop the hull, and CAD packages to develop 2D CAD drawings and 3D computer generated models of your designs.

You will also have access to Solent University’s 60 metres long tow tank, where you will be able to test and analyse the performance of a sailing or motor vessel and then develop the sail or wing plan for a wind assisted vessel, or the powertrain for a powered vessel.

On completion of the course, which may well finish with your dissertation completed alongside a commercial design office or production facility, you will have the design skills to join an exciting worldwide industry. Alternatively, you could complete further research by pursuing a PhD. 

Any questions?

Contact UK admissions

• [email protected]
• 023 8201 5066

Contact international admissions

• [email protected]
• +44 (0)23 8201 5066

Speak to a tutor

Student work

Our creative degrees allow our students to develop a critical eye for design with a knowledge of different design approaches and problem solving techniques. Take a look at some of the great work they produce.

Course features

Apply direct.

You can apply direct to Solent University for this course

Specialist facilities

This course has access to specialist facilities

This course is for

This course is ideally suited to students who have an undergraduate degree in large ship design, engineering, architecture or technical product design, or for those who have practical seagoing experience of working vessels but who now wish to pursue a career in the marine design industry designing complex sustainable vessels between 24m and 120m in length.  

What this course leads to

This course can lead to exciting worldwide careers as a superyacht or commercial craft designer, specialising in areas of naval architecture, marine craft design, or project management; or being an owner’s representative within both the superyacht and commercial craft industry. 

• Naval architect
• Production manager
• Systems engineer

Meet the team

The academic team have many years' experience in teaching the analytical theory and the practical design associated with the development and design of commercial marine draft and superyachts. Collectively, their expertise and authority to deliver the latest marine craft design knowledge and real-world design practice is reinforced by actively engaging with academic consultancy, government funded projects, post-doctoral research, and industry experience and consultancy.

Giles Barkley

Course Leader

Vittorio Boccolini

Senior Lecturer

Dr Yifan Wang

The University cannot guarantee any particular members of staff will teach specific aspects of the course in the future, but will endeavour to ensure the teaching team maintains their balance of experience and qualifications.

To aid learning, students have full access to the University’s specialist yacht engineering and design facilities, including our composite construction workshop, yacht drawing office and modern CAD office, which is equipped with the latest commercial marine design and production software.

Students also have access to a fully-equipped specialist composite laboratory and materials testing laboratory, a 60m towing tank and static four-metre stability tank.

Year one modules

Core modules, naval architecture structures and systems.

This module covers three main areas: naval architecture, structural design, and systems design. You will learn the principles of stability, resistance, and propulsion, alongside the principles for dimensioning hull plating and scantlings to classification rules. You will also design and position on board the main systems required on board marine craft.

Marine Craft Production Management

In this module, you'll cover the vessel production management process from concept to delivery. Topics covered include specifications, contracts, production programming, costs, the production team, class, flag, owner’s representative, fitout planning, shipyard planning, and large vessel movements. The module also includes real vessel production case studies and shipyard visits.

Powered Craft Design Development

Working in groups, you will develop a large motor vessel in line with a client brief in groups and present the styling and layout of the design to the client midway through the module. The module also involves the technical development of the design, ensuring compliance with statutory and structural regulations. You will also consider alternative CO2 reducing power plants for the vessel.

Sustainable Marine Design

This module examines alternative marine fuels and propulsion system integration. It offers an in-depth insight into the properties, evolution, advantages, and disadvantages, and assesses the performance of vessel emissions elimination solutions to help prepare students for future challenges.

Wind Assisted Vessel Design

You will learn and apply the design and software skills to develop a preliminary design for a 30 to 40 metre sailing or wind-assisted vessel, applying new knowledge gained in other modules. You will also utilise International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, ensuring your design meets these. You may also consider novel wind assisted rigs too.

Marine Craft Dissertation

Your dissertation can be either an industry-based design, or production led, or an academic research-based project. The aim is to extend your knowledge beyond the taught syllabus - you will approach a specific topic by developing the project or widening knowledge, using traditional and innovative engineering techniques and design tools.

Learning resources

At Solent, our aim is to deliver innovative, inclusive and intellectually stimulating teaching to develop self-confident and highly employable graduates. All our courses are designed with employability in mind, which makes industry-based learning a priority.

Learn transferable skills

Students will develop creative thinking, problem-solving and analysis, production, project management and teamwork skills throughout the course.

Why choose a career in sustainable marine craft and superyacht design

There is currently demand from both the commercial and superyacht industry for graduates who possess the technical design and production skills to develop and project manage the marine craft.

Our previous yacht, power craft, and superyacht design courses have scored very highly in graduate destination surveys, with normally 90% of graduates securing employment in their chosen field. These courses have graduated more than 1000 students, most of whom are still in contact with the University. Local alumni have previously given guest lectures, as well as graduate employment and internship opportunities.

The course team also have excellent connections with the wider marine industry, occasionally providing further learning opportunities for current students.

Local companies include RWD (designers of Superyachts based in Beaulieu) and commercial vessel designers, Keel Marine (Based in Havant) and Incat Crowther are supporters of this course.

Solent Careers

The Solent Careers team is committed to getting students into great careers.

While you are studying, the team can help you with finding work experience or placements, link you with a mentor, check your CV, or offer one-to-one guidance.

If you're in your final year, we also have graduate job opportunities just for Solent graduates.

UK uni for sustained employment

Longitudinal Educational Outcomes, 2022

Alumni network

As part of our global alumni community, you can take advantage of a range of benefits.

Whether it's been days or decades since you left us, or you're soon to don your cap and gown, things are constantly changing at Solent. We're always innovating, but we're also immensely proud of our heritage. And that means you.

20% alumni discount

Research and knowledge exchange.

Research doesn't just live in publications and journals - the effects of groundbreaking research can be found everywhere you look. That's why research at Solent has always been firmly rooted in industry needs and real-world application.

Solent University prides itself on carrying out not only pioneering research, but also research that addresses real world problems. We offer opportunities to study for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in a number of areas.

At Solent, we want to help you achieve your best and discover new insights. Whether you're thinking about applying for a PhD, or already underway with your research studies, you'll find useful guidance and information in our research pages.

Tuition fees

The tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year are:

• UK and Channel Island full-time fees: £10,400 per year
• International full-time fees: £18,350 per year

For further information, please visit our  tuition fees page .

Extra course costs

While most course costs are covered by your tuition fees, some essential resources and optional extras may need to be paid for separately. These additional costs are listed below. For advice on budgeting and managing your money, please contact  [email protected] .

Alumni discount

Solent alumni are eligible for a 20% reduction of tuition fees if returning to study a postgraduate course.

Bursaries, scholarships and financial support

Solent University offers a range of bursaries and scholarships that provide financial assistance or waive fees for tuition or accommodation. Each bursary or scholarship has specific eligibility criteria. Check out our bursaries and scholarships pages to find out more.

Cost of living support

At Solent, we understand that the cost of living crisis may be of some concern. To help, we've put together some detailed information to show what support is available and how to make your money go further.

Graduation costs

There is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £45 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost. Extra guest tickets will go on sale after results publication and will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. The cost per ticket is currently £15. Please note, we do not guarantee there will be any extra tickets available to purchase.

Student finance videos

Entry requirements

Please select an option below:

Key entry requirements

First or 2:1 in an appropriate naval architecture, engineering, or technology subject.

Or professional qualification to either 3000GT superyacht captain, chief engineer or Master Mariner with appropriate experience.

If you are applying from outside the UK, find information about entry requirements, visas and agents for your country here .

For further information about UK, EU and international qualifications, please contact admissions .

Note to all international students requiring a visa

All international applicants need to be aware that the English language requirements to attend Solent University, and the English language requirements to obtain a visa from the Home Office, may be different. This means that if you meet the Solent University language requirement to gain a place on the course, you may still have to meet additional requirements to be granted with a visa by the Home Office.

We strongly advise all applicants to visit the Home Office website which outlines all the requirements for a successful visa application and to take a look at our 2023 course entry statement document.

An honours degree at 2:1 or higher

Your application checklist

Applications for postgraduate courses can be made at any time prior to the start of the course. However, we strongly recommend you apply at your earliest convenience.

Please ensure you upload the following mandatory documents with your application:

• Two academic references.
• Certified transcripts of qualifications, including English language proficiency if non-UK student.
• Copy of passport.
• Copy of current visa (if applicable).
• A personal statement.
• Employer sponsor form, where appropriate.

Language requirements

Applicants who do not have English as their first language will be required to demonstrate an approved level of proficiency in the use of the English language. The agreed minimum requirements for this course are:

• IELTS minimum 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each individual component
• TOEFL IBT 92 with a minimum of 22 in writing and a minimum of 20 in reading, listening and speaking
• Duolingo English Language Test - 115 overall with minimum of 100 in each component or equivalent.

Qualifications are checked before enrolment, and international students must bring their original certificates or certified copies when coming to study at the University.

Pre-Sessional English programme The University also offers a pre-sessional English programme for international students who wish to improve their level of English before starting a degree course.

Study options

Full-time starting september 2024.

This course will start September 2024. You can apply direct now by clicking the 'Apply direct' button at the top of the page.

Full-time starting September 2025

This course will start September 2025. Please contact admissions for more information about applying.

Make your application

• 1 year full-time

Not ready to apply?

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• Yachts Design Directory

Southampton Yacht Design.

Welcome to the "Southampton Yacht Design" section of the NAVIS Luxury Yacht Directory. We take great pride in spotlighting the marvelous world of yacht design, with a special focus on the fantastic works originating from the historic city of Southampton.

Famous for its maritime heritage, Southampton has been a center of yacht innovation and a source of inspiration for yacht design for decades. Southampton yacht design is characterized by its union of classic traditions with modern innovations. A Southampton yacht represents an excellent example of British craftsmanship, encapsulating luxury yacht interior design that leaves a lasting impression.

Our curated selection of Southampton yachts showcases the rich diversity and creativity that this city has to offer. These vessels bear the hallmark of nautical excellence, boasting lavish interiors and cutting-edge technology, reflecting a deep understanding of the luxury yachting lifestyle. It's this attention to detail that sets Southampton yacht design apart, attracting enthusiasts and connoisseurs from around the globe.

In this dedicated section, we present a detailed account of the top Southampton yacht designers, the individuals defining and redefining yacht design's future. Through comprehensive profiles, we explore their creative journey, design philosophy, and unique contributions to this fine art. A high-resolution gallery allows you to admire Southampton yachts in all their grandeur, providing a visual treat for the eyes.

Our "Southampton Yacht Design" segment serves as a journey through the compelling world of bespoke yacht design in one of the UK's most vibrant maritime cities. If you'd like to suggest a new designer, design studio, or artist from Southampton, please  contact NAVIS.

Immerse yourself in the elegance, master craftsmanship, and innovation that define Southampton yacht design as you navigate this section. We're delighted to lead you on this exciting exploration of supreme nautical luxury, straight from the heart of Southampton.

Yacht Designer

Interior Yacht Designer

John Munford

NAVIS Ten-Year Anniversary Edition

384 pages featuring the best of the best from the last ten years in the luxury yachting world.

Order printed or digital copies from the following stores.

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Yacht Design: Shining a Light on Southampton with Giles Barkley

When it comes to choosing the right degree course for a career in superyacht design or production, there aren’t many institutions worldwide that can compete with the two Yacht Design and Production degrees taught at Southampton Solent University’s School of Maritime Science and Engineering, which includes Warsash Maritime Academy . 

Former alumni include Richard Watson, CEO of Pascoe International, Bill Dixon of Dixon Yacht Design, leading French designer Guillaume Verdier, whose Open 60 designs cleaned up at the recent 2016 Vendée Globe single handed round the world race, Admirals Cup yacht designer Jason Ker, and leading race yacht designer Shaun Carkeek, to name just a few. 

Leading alumni return to Solent University to guest lecture the rising talents of tomorrow, giving tips on design and how to carve out a successful career in yacht design and production technology, according to Giles Barkley, senior lecturer and course leader for the two degree courses Solent University offers. 

Giles, who last year celebrated 25 years at the university, has seen many dramatic changes since the inception of the flagship Yacht and Powercraft Design degree in 1991. 

‘In my quarter century at Solent University , the design tools used, the  boat building materials employed and systems technology used on board has changed dramatically,’ Giles tells OnboardOnline. ‘Also the designer’s role has changed. The biggest change is that the boats have got a lot bigger.