From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Why Master of Engineering (Maritime)?
Maritime engineers are the driving force behind the maritime industry. They design, build and maintain ships, submarines and other marine vessels and structures – ensuring they’re safe, sturdy and efficient.
South Australia has a world-class maritime industry base, and the global sector is growing rapidly. Delivered in collaboration with ASC – Australia’s builder and sustainer of the Navy’s fleet of Collins Class submarines – our Master of Engineering (Maritime) combines advanced theory with countless opportunities to hone your skills in professional settings.
Whether you’re looking to upskill or change careers, we’ll help match your professional goals to industry objectives.
Overview
Our Master of Engineering (Maritime) is designed to challenge and extend, elevating you to take your engineering career to the next level.
You’ll study higher-level courses in advanced systems engineering, submarine design, naval architecture and shipbuilding programs – building a formidable knowledgebase. Deepen and formalise your project management expertise in engineering management and data analytics courses.
Our wide range of electives give you the freedom to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals. Whether that’s defence leadership, autonomous robotic systems or advanced mechanics and materials - you’ll explore a range of disciplines.
Put your learning into practice through our hands-on curriculum. Complete a capstone design project, major research project and up to 450 hours of professional industry placement.
These experiences combine to ensure you graduate with the advanced technical and professional skills necessary to achieve your career goals.
Key features
Extend your knowledge in higher-level courses in advanced systems engineering, submarine design, defence leadership and more. - Choose specialised electives aligned to your specific interests and career goals.
- Collaborate and apply your skills in industry with up to 450 hours of professional placement.
- Build your project management skillset through courses in engineering management and data analytics.
- Develop your research skills through capstone design and research projects in your final year.
- Commit to your studies at a pace that suits you – taking advantage of our stackable qualifications.
What you'll learn
Our Master of Engineering (Maritime) is structured with both a foundation and extension year. Depending on previous professional experience and completed qualifications, you may be eligible to receive credit for the first year and progress straight into year two of the degree.
The first year of this degree covers essential maritime engineering knowledge and theory in acoustics and vibration, submarine design and systems engineering. You’ll also complete courses in engineering data analytics and engineering management.
You’ll also undertake professional industry placement from your first year of study, aligning your practice to career goals. Throughout your degree, you’ll complete up to 450 hours of placement in a relevant industry setting.
In second year, you’ll take advanced courses in naval nuclear propulsion and stewardship, shipbuilding programs for industry and defence managers and submarine naval architecture.
You can also choose to complete two elective courses from the following:
- Advanced control
- Advanced fluid mechanics
- Advanced mechanics and materials
- Advanced vibrations
- Autonomous robotic systems
- Computational fluid dynamics
- Defence leadership
- Engineering acoustics
- Finite element analysis
- Heat pumps, refrigeration and air-conditioning
- Industrial automation
- Model-based systems engineering.
In your final year, you will complete both a major research project and a capstone engineering design project.
Assessments for this degree include reports, case studies, examinations, industry-relevant research projects and team-based projects.
Specialisations
The Master of Engineering is also available with specialisations in the following:
- Biopharmaceutical
- Engineering Management
- Materials
What courses you'll study
You're required to complete 96 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.
Complete 24 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Engineering data analytics | ENGI5006 | 6 |
|
|
Engineering Management | ENGI5003 | 6 |
|
|
Masters Engineering Research Project - Part A | ENGI6023 | 6 |
|
|
Masters Engineering Research Project - Part B | ENGI6024 | 6 |
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Masters Engineering Work Experience – Part 1 | ENGI5900 | 6 |
|
|
Masters Engineering Work Experience – Part 2 | ENGI5901 | 6 |
Complete exactly 12 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Engineering Acoustics | ENGM6005 | 6 |
|
|
Advanced Vibrations | ENGM6006 | 6 |
|
|
Finite Element Analysis | ENGM6008 | 6 |
|
|
Computational Fluid Dynamics | ENGM6009 | 6 |
|
|
Advanced Fluid Mechanics | ENGM6010 | 6 |
|
|
Heat Pumps, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning | ENGM6012 | 6 |
|
|
Defence Leadership | ENGI5024 | 6 |
|
|
Advanced Control | ENGE5005 | 6 |
|
|
Robotics and Autonomous Systems | COMP6010 | 6 |
|
|
Industrial Automation | ENGP6018 | 6 |
|
|
Model Based Systems Engineering | ENGI6021 | 6 |
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Acoustics and Vibrations | ENGI5001 | 6 |
|
|
Introduction to Submarine Design | ENGI5014 | 6 |
|
|
Submarine Design | ENGI5015 | 6 |
|
|
Principles of Systems Engineering | ENGP5004 | 6 |
|
|
Capstone Design Project | ENGI6001 | 6 |
|
|
Submarine Naval Architecture Maritime Engineering | ENGI6011 | 6 |
|
|
Shipbuilding Programs for Industry and Defence Managers | ENGI6012 | 6 |
|
|
Naval Nuclear Propulsion and Stewardship | ENGI6018 | 6 |
Career outcomes
Maritime engineers work on a wide range of projects and have the expertise to take on roles at any stage of the marine project lifecycle. From ship design and construction to safety testing and compliance, maintenance and repair.
You could lead development of modular shipbuilding techniques, enhancing flexibility and reducing construction timelines. Maybe you’ll implement predictive maintenance technologies, identifying potential equipment failures before they occur to improve safety. Or perhaps you’ll pioneer new approaches to ship construction that minimise the impact of maritime activities on marine ecosystems.
Whatever your area of interest, career paths are available in a wide range of sectors including:
- Construction and infrastructure
- Consulting and regulatory bodies
- Defence and security
- Dredging and marine construction
- Environmental management
- Fishing and aquaculture
- Manufacturing and supply
- Oil and gas
- Port and harbour management
- Recreational boating
- Renewable energy
- Research and development
- Salvage and rescue operations
- Shipbuilding
- Shipping and transportation.
Industry Trends
Rapid advancements in technology, environmental regulations and the evolving needs of the maritime industry are driving transformation across the sector. Projects focused on autonomous and unmanned vessels, advanced materials and construction techniques, renewable energy integration, predictive maintenance and resilient design. All will require the expertise of maritime engineers to bring to fruition.
The World Economic Forum (2023) suggests that as industries continue to rely on digital technologies for innovation and growth, demand for qualified maritime engineers is only expected to increase. Globally and in Australia, there is a demand for qualified engineers continuing to outstrip supply (Engineers Australia, 2023). Study a degree that will prepare you for an exciting career, applying your expertise in maritime engineering across a range of industries.
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
