Program overview
Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering, simply put, is the study of how to build big ships, construct offshore platforms, and develop marine resources. You might design giant oil tankers, luxury cruise liners, deep-sea drilling platforms, or even underwater robots. Core courses include Ship Principles (how ships float and move), Marine Engineering Environment (effects of wind, waves, and currents on structures), Ship Structural Mechanics (hull strength), Ship Design Principles (from concept to blueprints), as well as power systems and automation control. This major suits students who enjoy hands-on work, are comfortable with math and physics, and are curious about the ocean. Chinese universities have a strong tradition in this field—for example, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Harbin Engineering University, and Dalian University of Technology all have over a century of history, with labs featuring real ship model towing tanks and deep-sea pressure simulation devices. During graduate studies, you'll work on projects with your advisor, possibly developing new energy-efficient ship designs or offshore wind turbine foundations—very hands-on.