Marine Propulsion Technology option - MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion
Program Overview
Overview of the Marine Propulsion Technology Option - MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion
The Marine Propulsion Technology option is a specialist course within the MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion program at Cranfield University. This program focuses on gas turbine application for marine transportation, an area of significant importance given that around 80% of international trade in goods is carried by sea. With the increasing commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and decarbonization, the demand for skilled marine engineers who can implement change in design and operational matters is on the rise.
Course Details
- Start Date: March or October
- Duration: MSc: one year
- Delivery: Taught modules 50%, individual research project 50%
- Qualification: MSc, PgDip
- Study Type: Full-time
- Campus: Cranfield campus
Who is it for?
This course is designed for those seeking a career in the design, development, operation, and maintenance of marine propulsion systems. It is suitable for graduates looking for a challenging and rewarding career in an established international industry.
Why this Course?
Following the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) declaration in 2019, several key mandatory measures to reduce ship's carbon intensity are being adopted, creating a demand for skilled marine engineers. This course enables students to pursue their own specific interests and career aspirations, with the option to choose from a range of modules and select an appropriate research project.
Course Modules
The taught program for the Marine Propulsion Technology masters consists of seven compulsory modules and up to three optional modules. The modules are generally delivered from October to April for the October intake.
Compulsory Modules
- Gas Turbine Performance, Simulation and Diagnostics
- Aim: To inform students about different types of gas turbine engines, their applications, and performance calculations.
- Syllabus: Covers gas turbine types, performance and simulation, diagnostics, and monitoring.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to examine gas turbine components, analyze performance, and assess the impact of degradation mechanisms.
- Turbomachinery and Blade Cooling
- Aim: To familiarize students with compressor and turbine aerodynamic design and performance, and introduce the technology of gas turbine blade cooling.
- Syllabus: Includes thermofluids, compressor design and performance, turbine design and performance, and heat transfer principles.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to identify and analyze turbomachinery design and performance characteristics and explain the requirement for ethical and professional conduct.
- Combustors
- Aim: To make students familiar with the design, operation, computation, and performance criteria of gas turbine combustion and reheat systems.
- Syllabus: Covers GT combustor design considerations, combustion efficiency, GT generated pollutants, and computational methods for GT combustors.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to explain and evaluate engineering principles underpinning the design of gas turbine combustors and reheat systems.
- Engine Systems
- Aim: To familiarize students with engine systems or engine designs for stationary and aero gas turbines.
- Syllabus: Includes assessments of engine systems, auxiliaries, and engine designs, with topics such as intake systems, anti-icing systems, and start systems.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to compose a structured technical report, conduct systematic analysis, and report technical outcomes.
- Management for Technology
- Aim: To emphasize the importance of technology leadership in driving technical aspects of an organization's products, innovation, programs, operations, and strategy.
- Syllabus: Covers engineers and technologists in organizations, people management, the business environment, strategy and marketing, finance, new product development, and negotiation.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should recognize the importance of teamwork, operate as an effective team member, and design and deliver an effective presentation.
- Gas Turbine Operations and Rotating Machines
- Aim: To familiarize students with various operations of gas turbines and other driven rotating machines.
- Syllabus: Includes gas turbine operations, steam turbine operations, and diesel engines for heat and power.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to evaluate gas turbine performance, assess engine performance deterioration, and critically compare design key components.
- Marine Propulsion System Integration
- Aim: To familiarize students with various marine propulsion technologies, propulsion auxiliaries, and their integration.
- Syllabus: Covers ship propulsion systems, ships auxiliary systems, propulsion system integration, and alternative fuels and regulatory frameworks.
- Intended Learning Outcomes: Students should be able to compare different marine propulsion technologies, evaluate their performance, and specify parameters for selecting a suitable propulsion system.
Teaching Team
The course is taught by experienced academic staff with many years of industrial experience. The teaching team includes professors and lecturers from the Gas Turbine Technology Group and other relevant departments.
Accreditation
The Thermal Power and Propulsion MSc is accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council as meeting the requirements for further learning for registration as a Chartered Engineer (CEng).
Your Career
Cranfield's Career Service is dedicated to helping students meet their career aspirations. Support includes career coaching, CV development, interview practice, and access to job opportunities.
Fees and Funding
- Home (Full-time): £13,960 (MSc), £10,930 (PgDip)
- Overseas (Full-time): £31,775 (MSc), £25,415 (PgDip)
- Deposit: £500 (Home), £1,000 (Overseas)
- Funding opportunities include ASEAN-UK: Women in STEM Scholarships, Frank Whittle scholarships, and more.
Entry Requirements
- Academic Background: Usually a UK lower second-class undergraduate degree or equivalent international qualification in engineering, mathematics, physics, or an applied science discipline.
- English Language: IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall and 5.5 in all skill components, or equivalent.
- ATAS Clearance: Required for international students.
Conclusion
The Marine Propulsion Technology option within the MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion at Cranfield University offers a comprehensive education in marine propulsion systems, focusing on gas turbine applications. With its strong industry connections, accredited program, and experienced teaching team, this course prepares graduates for challenging and rewarding careers in the marine propulsion industry.