Naval Architecture
Overview
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Program Description
Naval Architecture is the science and technology of designing ships and other marine vessels. You will study physics, mathematics, fluid mechanics, materials, structural analysis, and basics of marine engineering to learn how hulls are shaped, how vessels float and remain stable, and how they perform in water. The program combines classroom theory, computer modelling, and practical testing to prepare you for careers such as naval architect, ship designer, marine surveyor, offshore structural engineer, or roles in ports and shipyards. If you enjoy maths, physics, drawing and problem solving, this program opens pathways to hands-on industry work and further study in engineering and maritime technology.
Aims & Objectives
Develop a clear understanding of hydrostatics and vessel stability, demonstrated by solving stability problems and producing intact stability booklets.
Master basic hull form design and drawing, shown by creating scaled hull lines and CAD models for a small vessel.
Apply principles of fluid mechanics and resistance prediction, validated by running simple calculations or simulations for vessel resistance.
Perform basic structural analysis and material selection, measured by analysing stress on typical ship members and recommending suitable materials.
Carry out model test planning and data analysis, recorded through lab reports that use measurement data and statistical evaluation.
Why Choose This Program?
Strong demand in maritime and offshore sectors
Ghana and West Africa have growing ports, fisheries and offshore activities, creating demand for graduates who can design, inspect and maintain vessels and marine structures.
Practical, hands-on learning
You will combine maths and physics with drawing, CAD and model testing, so learning is applied and job-ready for shipyards, ports and maritime services.
Interdisciplinary and transferable skills
Skills in fluid mechanics, structural analysis and CAD transfer to careers in marine engineering, offshore renewables, and coastal infrastructure.
Opportunities for internships and industry links
Students can gain practical experience through internships with shipyards, ports, marine consultancies and university research labs, improving employability.
Skills & Tools
Skills You'll Develop
Calculate buoyancy, center of gravity and metacentric height to assess vessel stability and produce stability guidance for safe operation.
Use CAD software to create hull lines, 3D models and general arrangements for vessels, enabling visualization and detailed design.
Apply fluid mechanics principles and run simple computational or spreadsheet-based simulations to estimate resistance and propulsion needs.
Perform stress checks on hull components, select appropriate marine materials and understand corrosion and maintenance requirements.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD or Rhino for hull and arrangement drawing
Maxsurf or similar ship design suites
MATLAB or Python for data analysis and calculations
OpenFOAM or simple CFD tools for hydrodynamic studies
Challenges & Tips
Challenges
High demands in mathematics and physics.
Tips & Advice
Build strong foundations early with extra classes, past questions and online tutorials in calculus and mechanics.
Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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