University course · real outcomes from HESA / Discover Uni · part of Careermash

University degree

Yacht and Powercraft Design

Southampton Solent University

Qualification

Degree

Length

3 yrs

UK fees / yr

£9,535

Study

full-time

Robin · your guide

Here's the honest picture on this course - what you'd study, whether you'd likely get in, what it pays, and where it leads. Everything's real data.

About this course

Yacht and powercraft design is the engineering discipline concerned with the design, performance, and construction of sailing yachts, motor vessels, and other marine craft. It sits within the broader field of naval architecture, applying the principles of hydrodynamics, structural engineering, materials science, and propulsion to create vessels that are safe, seaworthy, and fit for their intended purpose. The field spans a wide range of craft from racing yachts to luxury motor vessels, and it combines demanding engineering with a strong aesthetic dimension.

At Southampton Solent University this three-year, full-time programme includes an optional foundation year and is taught by experienced marine architects and designers who bring professional practice into the curriculum. You will study naval architecture principles alongside the specific engineering considerations of sailing and powered craft, developing your understanding of hull design, stability, structural analysis, propulsion systems, and the materials used in marine construction. Southampton Solent has a long association with the maritime industry and is situated close to the Solent, one of the world's busiest and most varied sailing waters, providing a context that is genuinely relevant to the discipline.

Graduates of yacht and powercraft design go on to careers in the marine industry, working as naval architects, design engineers, boat builders, project managers, and technical consultants for yacht manufacturers, shipyards, marine engineering firms, and specialist design studios. The UK and global marine leisure industry is substantial, and professional naval architects are also employed in commercial shipping, offshore energy, and marine survey. The foundation year option makes the programme accessible to students who want to build their technical preparation before beginning the engineering curriculum.

Progression towards professional status as a Chartered Engineer or Chartered Naval Architect is a natural goal for many graduates.

Could you get in?

The grades students arrived with

80-95 pts10%

96-111 pts20%

112-127 pts40%

144-159 pts10%

160-175 pts10%

How they qualified

65% got in with A-levels. The rest came in a mix of ways:

A-levels65%

Other15%

another degree10%

other higher education5%

Could I get in? Try your grades

120 UCAS pts

Pay & prospects

100%

In work or further study after

85%

Continue past first year

79%

Student satisfaction

What graduates earn over time

£30,000

After 15 months

£25,000

3 years on

£31,500

5 years on

What graduates actually go on to do % of leavers

Skilled trades occupations15%

Engineering professionalsHighly skilled65%

Business and public service associate professionalsHighly skilled20%

Managers, directors and senior officialsHighly skilled5%

What students say National Student Survey

79%

of students are satisfied with the course overall

Teaching92%

Assessment & feedback60%

Academic support72%

Well organised77%

Learning resources77%

Student community70%

In students' own words

★★★★★

Exceeded expectations

I was sceptical before starting — now I'd recommend it to anyone. The best part: the studio culture is incredible — you learn as much from your peers as your tutors. If I'm honest, the timetable has some awkward 9am / Friday afternoon slots…

Class of 2023 · Part-time

★★★★☆

Good but not perfect

There's a lot to love, but it's not without its flaws. The best part: the opportunity to do independent research in the final year is a highlight. If I'm honest, the timetable has some awkward 9am / Friday afternoon slots. On the city — goo…

Final year · Full-time

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