

B-TECH in Naval Architecture And Ship Building at Cochin University of Science and Technology


Ernakulam, Kerala
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Naval Architecture and Ship Building at Cochin University of Science and Technology Ernakulam?
This Naval Architecture and Ship Building program at Cochin University of Science and Technology focuses on the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of marine vessels and offshore structures. Situated in Ernakulam, a major port city in Kerala, the program leverages its proximity to a thriving maritime industry. It covers fundamental engineering principles alongside specialized topics crucial for the Indian shipbuilding sector, which is witnessing significant growth due to coastal security needs, increased trade, and a push for indigenous manufacturing under initiatives like ''''Make in India''''. The curriculum is designed to create skilled engineers capable of addressing complex challenges in a globally competitive maritime landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers with a strong foundation in physics, chemistry, and mathematics, eager to contribute to the maritime and offshore industries. It attracts fresh graduates seeking entry into roles involving ship design, marine engineering, and shipyard operations. Professionals looking to upskill in advanced naval architecture concepts, sustainable marine technologies, or offshore structure design can also benefit. Career changers with a mechanical or civil engineering background transitioning into the specialized field of marine structures will find the program''''s comprehensive curriculum highly relevant. A keen interest in marine technology, fluid dynamics, and structural analysis is a key prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse and rewarding India-specific career paths in public sector shipyards (like Cochin Shipyard, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders), private shipbuilders, design consultancies, classification societies (IRS, DNV-GL), and the Indian Navy. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-25 lakhs, depending on expertise and role. Growth trajectories include becoming Lead Naval Architects, Marine Design Managers, Production Engineers, or pursuing higher studies and research. The program also aligns with competencies required for professional certifications from bodies like the Institution of Naval Architects (India).

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Engineering Mechanics. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL for supplementary learning and solve previous year''''s CUSAT question papers. This strong base is crucial for understanding advanced naval architecture concepts in later semesters and for competitive exams.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Previous year question papers, Reference textbooks
Career Connection
A solid foundation is essential for excelling in advanced subjects and for competitive exams, which are gateways to many public sector roles and higher studies.
Develop Problem-Solving Skills with Programming- (Semester 1-2)
Master a programming language like Python or C++ by solving engineering problems and participating in coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank or CodeChef. This skill is vital for computational fluid dynamics, structural analysis, and automating design tasks in naval architecture.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, CodeChef, GeeksforGeeks, Python/C++ IDEs
Career Connection
Proficiency in programming significantly boosts employability for design, analysis, and research roles in modern marine engineering firms.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Project Clubs- (Semester 1-2)
Join campus clubs related to robotics, sustainable energy, or model-making. Participate in inter-departmental projects that involve basic design and fabrication. This fosters teamwork, practical application of theoretical knowledge, and introduces early exposure to project management.
Tools & Resources
College project clubs, Workshop facilities, Basic prototyping kits
Career Connection
Early project exposure builds practical skills and teamwork, preparing students for capstone projects and industry team environments.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Ship Design Software- (Semester 3-5)
Start learning industry-standard CAD/CAE software relevant to naval architecture, such as AutoCAD, Rhino 3D, SolidWorks, Maxsurf, or Tribon/Aveva Marine. Utilize tutorials, department labs, and online courses to build proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Maxsurf, Rhino 3D, SolidWorks, CUSAT CAD labs, Online tutorials (Coursera, edX)
Career Connection
Hands-on experience with design software is a primary requirement for design and drafting roles in shipyards and marine design offices.
Seek Industry Internships and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively pursue short-term internships or workshops during semester breaks at local shipyards, marine engineering firms, or design consultancies in Ernakulam/Kochi. This provides practical exposure to ship construction, repair processes, and operational aspects.
Tools & Resources
CUSAT Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Industry contacts in Kochi
Career Connection
Internships enhance theoretical knowledge, build a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly aiding job prospects.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in national-level design competitions (e.g., student boat design challenges, ASME Human Powered Vehicle) or present technical papers at college/university level seminars on marine technology topics.
Tools & Resources
Student chapters of professional bodies (INA, RINA), Department technical fests
Career Connection
This hones presentation skills, encourages innovative thinking, and provides a platform to showcase expertise to potential employers and peers.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Research-Oriented Project Work- (Semester 6-8)
Collaborate with faculty on a comprehensive final year project aligned with current industry challenges (e.g., sustainable shipping, autonomous vessels, offshore renewable energy). Aim for publishing a paper in a national conference or journal.
Tools & Resources
CUSAT faculty expertise, Research labs, Access to scientific databases
Career Connection
A strong project demonstrates problem-solving ability and research aptitude, highly valued for R&D roles, product development, or pursuing higher studies.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 6-8)
Attend CUSAT''''s placement cell workshops on resume building, interview skills, and group discussions. Network with alumni and industry professionals through LinkedIn and professional body events (e.g., Institution of Naval Architects India chapters).
Tools & Resources
CUSAT Placement Cell services, LinkedIn, Professional networking events
Career Connection
This focused effort ensures readiness for campus placements and open doors to diverse career opportunities in the competitive maritime sector.
Advanced Certification in Specialized Areas- (Semester 6-8)
Pursue certifications in niche areas like marine coatings, welding inspection (e.g., ASNT NDT Level I), project management (e.g., PMI CAPM), or advanced structural analysis software. These specialized skills add significant value to a resume.
Tools & Resources
Industry certification bodies (ASNT, PMI), Specialized training institutes, Software vendor certifications
Career Connection
Specialized certifications differentiate candidates in a competitive job market, leading to niche engineering roles and higher earning potential.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, with a minimum aggregate of 50% in PCM, and a valid rank in KEAM (Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical) entrance examination. (As per CUSAT Admission Prospectus norms)
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 195 (Estimated based on 2019 Scheme for B.Tech programs) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-100-0101 | Engineering Mathematics I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Matrices, Vector Calculus, Partial Differentiation |
| 19-100-0102 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Waves and Optics, Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Laser Physics, Nanotechnology |
| 19-100-0103 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Water Technology, Corrosion and its Control, Polymers, Electrochemistry, Spectroscopy |
| 19-100-0104 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 3 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Development of Surfaces, Computer Aided Drafting Introduction |
| 19-100-0105 | Basic Civil and Mechanical Engineering | Core | 3 | Building Materials, Surveying, Thermodynamics, Internal Combustion Engines, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning |
| 19-450-0106 | Introduction to Ship Technology | Core | 3 | Ship Types and Nomenclature, Basic Principles of Floatation, Ship Dimensions and Form, Marine Environment, Evolution of Ship Building |
| 19-100-0107 | Engineering Physics Lab | Lab | 1 | Experiments on Optics, Experiments on Electricity, Experiments on Mechanics, Experiments on Magnetic Fields |
| 19-100-0108 | Engineering Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Water Quality Analysis, Titration Experiments, Conductometry, pH Metry, Viscosity Determination |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-100-0201 | Engineering Mathematics II | Core | 4 | Vector Spaces, Ordinary Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series, Complex Analysis |
| 19-100-0202 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Statics of Particles and Rigid Bodies, Friction, Dynamics of Particles, Work-Energy Principle, Impulse-Momentum |
| 19-100-0203 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Semiconductor Devices, Transistors, Operational Amplifiers |
| 19-100-0204 | Computer Programming | Core | 3 | C/C++ Fundamentals, Control Structures, Functions and Arrays, Pointers and Structures, Object-Oriented Programming Concepts |
| 19-100-0205 | Thermodynamics | Core | 3 | First Law of Thermodynamics, Second Law of Thermodynamics, Entropy, Thermodynamic Cycles, Properties of Pure Substances |
| 19-100-0206 | Material Science and Engineering | Core | 3 | Crystal Structure, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Phase Diagrams, Heat Treatment, Corrosion and Degradation |
| 19-100-0207 | Computer Programming Lab | Lab | 1 | C/C++ Programming Exercises, Debugging Techniques, Data Structure Implementation, Algorithm Development |
| 19-100-0208 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Lab | Lab | 1 | Circuit Laws Verification, Diode Characteristics, Transistor Amplifier Circuits, Logic Gates, Motors and Generators |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-450-0301 | Engineering Mathematics III | Core | 4 | Partial Differential Equations, Probability and Statistics, Numerical Methods Introduction, Linear Programming, Special Functions |
| 19-450-0302 | Mechanics of Solids | Core | 4 | Stress and Strain, Torsion of Shafts, Bending Moments and Shear Forces, Deflection of Beams, Compound Stresses and Strains |
| 19-450-0303 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid Properties, Fluid Statics, Fluid Kinematics, Bernoulli''''s Equation, Flow through Pipes |
| 19-450-0304 | Ship Geometry | Core | 3 | Ship Lines Plan, Hydrostatic Curves, Bonjean Curves, Form Coefficients, Areas and Volumes Calculations |
| 19-450-0305 | Marine Engineering Fundamentals | Core | 3 | Marine Diesel Engines, Boilers and Steam Turbines, Auxiliary Machinery, Propulsion Systems, Marine Power Plants |
| 19-450-0306 | Ship Drawing I | Lab | 2 | General Arrangement Plan, Midship Section Drawing, Deck Plans, Shell Expansion, Lines Plan |
| 19-450-0307 | Material Testing Lab | Lab | 1 | Tensile Testing, Hardness Testing, Impact Testing, Torsion Testing, Fatigue Testing |
| 19-450-0308 | Fluid Mechanics Lab | Lab | 1 | Reynolds Experiment, Venturimeter and Orifice Meter, Flow through Notches and Weirs, Friction Factor Determination, Pump Performance Characteristics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-450-0401 | Naval Architecture Mathematics (Numerical Methods) | Core | 4 | Solution of Algebraic Equations, Interpolation and Curve Fitting, Numerical Differentiation and Integration, Solution of ODEs and PDEs, Finite Difference Methods |
| 19-450-0402 | Strength of Materials in Ships | Core | 4 | Longitudinal Strength, Transverse Strength, Local Strength of Ship Structures, Welded Joints Strength, Fatigue and Fracture |
| 19-450-0403 | Ship Hydrostatics | Core | 4 | Initial Stability, Large Angle Stability, Damaged Stability, Trim and List, Free Surface Effect |
| 19-450-0404 | Ship Resistance and Propulsion | Core | 3 | Components of Ship Resistance, Froude''''s Law of Comparison, Propeller Theory, Propeller Design, Model Testing and Extrapolation |
| 19-450-0405 | Marine Systems and Auxiliaries | Core | 3 | Pumping and Piping Systems, Steering Gear, Anchoring and Mooring Systems, HVAC Systems, Waste Management Systems |
| 19-450-0406 | Computer Aided Ship Design Lab | Lab | 2 | Introduction to Maxsurf/Rhino, Hull Modelling, Hydrostatic Calculations using Software, Weight Estimation, Plate Expansion |
| 19-450-0407 | Ship Drawing II | Lab | 1 | Outboard Profile, Machinery Arrangement, Piping System Diagrams, Structural Details Drawing, Assembly Drawing of Ship Components |
| 19-450-0408 | Marine Systems Lab | Lab | 1 | Pump Performance Tests, Heat Exchanger Analysis, Refrigeration Cycle Demonstration, Engine Dismantling and Assembly, Valve and Piping System Identification |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-450-0501 | Ship Structures I | Core | 4 | Structural Arrangement of Ships, Materials for Ship Construction, Stiffened Plate Analysis, Buckling of Plates and Stiffeners, Finite Element Method Introduction |
| 19-450-0502 | Ship Vibrations | Core | 4 | Single Degree of Freedom Systems, Two Degree of Freedom Systems, Forced Vibrations, Hull Vibrations, Propeller Induced Vibrations |
| 19-450-0503 | Ship Motions | Core | 3 | Equations of Motion, Response Amplitude Operators (RAO), Seakeeping, Roll Damping, Ship Motion Control |
| 19-450-0504 | Marine Electrical and Electronics | Core | 3 | Marine Power Generation, Distribution Systems, Marine Communication Systems, Navigation Electronics, Control Systems for Marine Applications |
| 19-450-0505 | Ocean Engineering | Core | 3 | Ocean Environment, Offshore Platforms, Subsea Systems, Mooring and Risers, Marine Renewable Energy |
| 19-450-0506 | Professional Elective I | Elective | 3 | Advanced Ship Hydrodynamics, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Marine Corrosion and Prevention, Fishing Vessel Technology |
| 19-450-0507 | Ship Structures Lab | Lab | 1 | Strain Gauge Applications, Beam Deflection Experiments, Buckling Tests, Stress Concentration Analysis, FEM Software Practice |
| 19-450-0508 | Marine Electrical Lab | Lab | 1 | AC Generator Characteristics, Motor Control Circuits, Power Factor Correction, Electronic Circuit Design, Microcontroller Interfacing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-450-0601 | Ship Structures II | Core | 4 | Primary and Secondary Structures, Grillage Analysis, Impact and Slamming Loads, Fatigue Design of Ship Structures, Classification Society Rules |
| 19-450-0602 | Ship Design I | Core | 4 | Design Process and Stages, Ship Type Selection, Principal Dimensions Selection, Propulsion System Selection, Weight and Stability Estimation |
| 19-450-0603 | Ship Dynamics | Core | 3 | Ship Manoeuvring, Directional Stability, Turning Circles, Stopping and Acceleration, Dynamic Positioning |
| 19-450-0604 | Ship Production and Planning | Core | 3 | Shipyard Layout, Fabrication Processes, Assembly and Erection, Outfitting, Production Planning and Control |
| 19-450-0605 | Marine Pollution Control and Safety | Core | 3 | MARPOL Regulations, Oil Pollution Prevention, Sewage and Garbage Management, Fire Safety on Ships, Life Saving Appliances |
| 19-450-0606 | Professional Elective II | Elective | 3 | Advanced Offshore Structures, Small Craft Design, Ship Reliability and Maintenance, Composite Materials in Marine Applications |
| 19-450-0607 | Ship Design Lab | Lab | 1 | Preliminary Ship Design Calculations, Parametric Design, Propeller Design Software, Resistance and Propulsion Analysis, Stability Assessment |
| 19-450-0608 | Ship Production Lab | Lab | 1 | Welding Techniques Demonstration, Plate Bending and Forming, Assembly Jig Fabrication, Non-Destructive Testing Methods, Shipyard Visit and Report |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-450-0701 | Ship Design II | Core | 4 | Detailed Ship Design, Structural Design of Main Elements, Outfit and Machinery Layout, Cost Estimation, Rules and Regulations for Ship Design |
| 19-450-0702 | Naval Architecture CAD/CAM | Core | 4 | Advanced CAD for Hull Forms, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for Ship Structures, Manufacturing Information Generation, NC Part Programming, Robotics in Ship Production |
| 19-450-0703 | Ship Repair and Maintenance | Core | 3 | Dry Docking Procedures, Hull and Machinery Repairs, Corrosion Protection Systems, Inspection and Survey, Maintenance Planning and Management |
| 19-450-0704 | Marine Control Systems | Core | 3 | Control System Principles, Sensors and Actuators, Automatic Steering Systems, Engine Room Automation, Dynamic Positioning Systems |
| 19-450-0705 | Professional Elective III | Elective | 3 | Advanced Marine Hydrodynamics, Submersible Design, Ice Navigation and Ice Loads, Marine Renewable Energy Systems |
| 19-450-0706 | Open Elective I | Elective | 3 | Project Management, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property Rights, Operations Research |
| 19-450-0707 | Project Work (Phase I) | Project | 2 | Literature Review, Problem Definition, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design/Analysis |
| 19-450-0708 | Seminar | Skill Development | 1 | Technical Presentation Skills, Literature Search, Report Writing, Public Speaking |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19-450-0801 | Shipyard Management and Economics | Core | 4 | Shipyard Organization, Production Management, Quality Control, Costing and Pricing of Ships, Project Management in Shipyards |
| 19-450-0802 | Marine Hydrodynamics | Core | 4 | Potential Flow Theory, Boundary Layer Theory, Wave Theories, Hydrodynamic Loads on Structures, Propeller Hydrodynamics |
| 19-450-0803 | Professional Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Warship Design, Yacht and Small Boat Design, Shipbuilding Contracts and Law, Autonomous Marine Vehicles |
| 19-450-0804 | Open Elective II | Elective | 3 | Renewable Energy Systems, Industrial Safety, Supply Chain Management, Cyber Security |
| 19-450-0805 | Project Work (Phase II) | Project | 6 | Detailed Design/Analysis, Experimental Validation/Simulation, Result Analysis and Discussion, Project Report Preparation, Project Presentation and Viva Voce |
| 19-450-0806 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Assessment | 2 | Overall Subject Knowledge, Application of Concepts, Communication Skills, Critical Thinking |
| 19-450-0807 | Internship / Industrial Training | Practical | 2 | On-the-job Training, Industry Practices, Professional Etiquette, Report Writing on Industrial Exposure |




