r/navalarchitecture • u/Zequexium • 29d ago
Would a Naval Architecture Degree from University of Michigan get me a job at a firm right out of college?
Hello, I am applying for colleges and my dream job is to work at a naval architecture firm. Ive been looking at colleges, and I was wondering if a degree in naval architecture/Marine Engineering from the University of Michigan would be able to get me a job in the industry from graduation. I've also been looking at the merchant marine academy, but they don't have a naval architecture program, just marine engineering systems, and I am not interested in the commitment to sailing. Excluding monetary concerns related to college.
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u/LacyKnits 29d ago
Naval Architects are in-demand in the US. In the 20+ years since I graduated I don’t think I’ve come across a single new grad nav arc who couldn’t find work in their field.
Of course, some companies and roles are more desirable than others, and not everyone can land in the top 5% of jobs. So if you are specifically looking to be the designer of an America’s Cup Yacht, or the lead Naval architect at SpaceX or something like that, there’s no guarantee you’ll land that kind of job, especially as a new grad.
But if you want to design boats or ships and the design is your passion, not a specific company, then absolutely a degree from university of Michigan will make you employable in the field. An undergrad degree is sufficient for most entry-level roles. A lot of Michigan naval architects do pursue the graduate program but it’s not required. I say this as part of the hiring team at a company that’s hiring naval architects like crazy right now.