Most naval architects have a degree or postgraduate qualification. This would usually be an engineering subject like:

• naval architecture
• ocean, offshore or marine engineering
• ship science

You may be able to get onto a degree course if you've got qualifications from working as an engineering technician.

Degree courses that offer practical work experience through a year in industry, summer placements or internships may give you an advantage. Your university careers service can help you find suitable opportunities.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• design skills and knowledge
• knowledge of physics
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to read English
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

In your day-to-day duties you could:

• coordinate the work of engineering design teams
• make sure that designs are safe, seaworthy and cost-effective
• prepare design plans using computer software
• check and test specifications using computer simulations and 3D models
• make sure that designs meet operational requirements
• coordinate manufacturing or repair work

You could work in an office, at a shipyard, on a rig, on a ship or in a laboratory.

Your working environment may be at height and outdoors some of the time.

You may need to wear protective clothing.