

B-TECH in Naval Architecture And Offshore Engineering at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)


Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of marine vessels and offshore structures. It addresses the growing demands of India''''s maritime industry, encompassing shipbuilding, port operations, and offshore oil and gas sectors, preparing students for critical roles in a vital global industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a strong foundation in PCM seeking entry into the maritime and offshore sectors. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in specialized areas like marine design or offshore structural analysis. Career changers with relevant engineering backgrounds can transition into this high-demand industry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in shipyards, design firms, classification societies, and offshore companies in India and internationally. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist for roles in naval architecture, marine engineering, and offshore project management within a dynamic industry.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Core Engineering Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on fundamental subjects like Engineering Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Basic Engineering Mechanics. Understand the underlying principles as they form the bedrock for advanced marine and offshore concepts. Participate in tutorial sessions and solve a wide range of problems.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks, Standard engineering reference books, NPTEL videos for conceptual clarity
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals ensure readiness for advanced topics, crucial for design and analysis roles in shipbuilding.
Master Engineering Graphics & CAD Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Develop proficiency in Engineering Graphics and Computer Aided Design (CAD). Practice manual drafting and extensively use CAD software to visualize and model components. This hands-on skill is indispensable for marine and offshore design documentation.
Tools & Resources
AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Drafting sets, Online CAD tutorials
Career Connection
Direct application in ship design firms, offshore platform design, and naval architecture roles, leading to faster integration into project teams.
Cultivate Effective Communication & Soft Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in English for Engineers and Soft Skills modules. Practice public speaking, technical writing, and teamwork. Engage in group discussions and presentations to refine communication, critical for collaboration in multi-disciplinary marine projects.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters-like clubs, Online English proficiency courses, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Enhances interview performance, presentation skills for project defense, and client interaction in professional settings.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Foundational Knowledge to Marine Contexts- (Semester 3-5)
Actively connect theoretical concepts from Fluid Mechanics, Strength of Materials, and Thermodynamics to their marine and offshore applications. Work on problem sets and mini-projects that involve real-world scenarios in ship stability, structural integrity, and propulsion systems.
Tools & Resources
Marine engineering textbooks, Industry case studies, Simulation software (e.g., MATLAB for basic simulations)
Career Connection
Develops analytical skills directly applicable to ship design, classification society roles, and offshore engineering challenges.
Seek Early Industry Exposure & Internships- (Semester 4-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or industrial visits to shipyards, port authorities, or offshore companies during semester breaks. This provides practical insights into ship construction, repair, and offshore operations, complementing academic learning.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Industry contacts, VISTAS''''s industry partners
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, gains practical experience, and strengthens resume for future placements in marine and offshore firms.
Engage in Design Competitions & Projects- (Semester 4-5)
Participate in student design competitions related to marine vessels or offshore structures (e.g., SNAME design competitions, local university events). Form teams to conceptualize, design, and analyze projects, enhancing problem-solving and collaboration skills.
Tools & Resources
Naval architecture software (e.g., Maxsurf, Fairway), Access to workshop facilities, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Showcases practical design capabilities to potential employers, providing tangible project experience beyond coursework.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Project Work & Specialization- (Semester 7-8)
Dedicate significant effort to the Project Work (Phase I & II). Choose a topic aligned with career interests in Naval Architecture or Offshore Engineering. Engage in deep research, design, analysis, and potentially prototyping, leveraging advanced software and faculty expertise.
Tools & Resources
Advanced CFD/FEA software (ANSYS, ABAQUS, SHIPFLOW), Research databases, Library resources, Dedicated project labs
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a specialized area, forming a strong portfolio piece crucial for advanced roles and research opportunities.
Strategic Placement Preparation & Networking- (Semester 7-8)
Begin comprehensive placement preparation focusing on technical interviews specific to the maritime and offshore industries. Network with alumni, attend industry seminars, and refine interview skills. Understand roles in classification societies, shipyards, and offshore design offices.
Tools & Resources
VISTAS Career Development Centre, Mock interviews, Online aptitude tests, Professional networking platforms
Career Connection
Maximizes chances of securing desired roles in leading national and international marine and offshore companies.
Professional Ethics & Industry Regulations Mastery- (Semester 8)
BThoroughly understand Maritime Legislation, Classification rules, and Professional Ethics. Familiarize with international conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL) and the role of classification societies (IRS, DNV GL). This knowledge is fundamental for compliance and safety in the industry.
Tools & Resources
IMO publications, Classification Society rules, Academic discussions, Guest lectures from industry veterans
Career Connection
Essential for roles in maritime regulatory bodies, classification societies, and ensuring ethical practices in engineering projects.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as core subjects, or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) with Mathematics as an elective. Minimum 50% aggregate marks in PCM/PCB. Candidates must also meet the minimum eligibility criteria for the VELS Entrance Exam (VEE) or JEE (Main)/SAT scores.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 202 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMAT101 | Mathematics - I | Core | 4 | Matrices, Differential Calculus, Functions of Several Variables, Multiple Integrals, Differential Equations |
| BPHY101 | Physics for Engineering | Core | 3 | Properties of Matter, Optics, Lasers and Fibre Optics, Quantum Physics |
| BCHE101 | Chemistry for Engineering | Core | 3 | Electrochemistry and Corrosion, Water Treatment, Fuels and Combustion, Engineering Materials |
| BENG101 | English for Engineers | Core | 3 | Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary |
| BEEC101 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | DC and AC Circuits, Electrical Machines, Semiconductor Devices, Digital Electronics |
| BENG102 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 3 | Plane Curves, Projections of Points, Lines and Solids, Section of Solids, Development of Surfaces, Isometric Projections |
| BPHC101 | Physics and Chemistry Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Properties of Matter Experiments, Optical Instruments, Water Quality Analysis, pHmetry and Conductometry |
| BEEC102 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Circuit Laws Verification, Diodes and Transistors Characteristics, Logic Gates Implementation, AC Circuits Analysis |
| BCSE101 | Computer Programming Laboratory | Lab | 2 | C Programming Fundamentals, Control Statements and Arrays, Functions and Pointers, Structures and Unions |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMAT201 | Mathematics - II | Core | 4 | Vector Calculus, Analytic Functions, Complex Integration, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series |
| BMSA201 | Material Science | Core | 3 | Crystalline Materials, Phase Diagrams, Heat Treatment, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Composite Materials |
| BEMG201 | Basic Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Statics of Particles and Rigid Bodies, Equilibrium and Friction, Dynamics of Particles, Work, Energy, and Impulse-Momentum |
| BENS201 | Environmental Science and Engineering | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Solid Waste Management, Environmental Legislations |
| BTHE201 | Thermodynamics | Core | 3 | Basic Concepts and Laws of Thermodynamics, Entropy and Availability, Gas Power Cycles, Vapor Power Cycles, Refrigeration Cycles |
| BCAD201 | Computer Aided Design | Core | 3 | Introduction to CAD, 2D Drafting Techniques, 3D Solid and Surface Modeling, Assembly Modeling, CAD Software Applications |
| BWSP201 | Workshop Practice | Lab | 2 | Fitting and Carpentry, Welding Processes, Foundry Practices, Sheet Metal Working |
| BCAD202 | Computer Aided Design Laboratory | Lab | 2 | 2D Drawing Exercises, 3D Part Modeling, Assembly Creation, Parametric Design |
| BENS202 | Soft Skills - I | Soft Skill | 1 | Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion Techniques, Interview Preparation, Personal Grooming |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMED301 | Marine Engineering Drawing | Core | 4 | Ship Lines and General Arrangement, Midship Section Drawing, Structural Details of Ship, Propeller Drawings, Machinery Layout |
| BMFL301 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid Properties and Statics, Fluid Kinematics, Fluid Dynamics and Bernoulli''''s Equation, Dimensional Analysis and Model Studies, Flow Measurements |
| BMSO301 | Strength of Materials | Core | 4 | Stress and Strain, Shear Force and Bending Moment, Torsion of Circular Shafts, Bending Stresses in Beams, Deflection of Beams and Columns |
| BMMO301 | Mechanics of Machines | Core | 4 | Kinematics of Machinery, Dynamics of Machinery, Cams and Gears, Governors and Flywheels, Mechanical Vibrations |
| BMSH301 | Ship Production and Design Principles | Core | 3 | Shipbuilding Materials, Ship Types and Their Characteristics, Basic Design Principles, Ship Construction Methods, Introduction to Offshore Structures |
| BMNA301 | Naval Architecture I | Core | 3 | Ship Geometry and Hydrostatic Curves, Initial Stability and Free Surface Effect, Dynamic Stability, Damaged Stability, Tonnage and Freeboard |
| BMFL302 | Fluid Mechanics Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Flow Measurement Devices, Friction Loss in Pipes, Pump Characteristics, Bernoulli''''s Theorem Verification |
| BMSO302 | Strength of Materials Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Tensile and Compression Testing, Shear and Torsion Tests, Hardness and Impact Testing, Deflection of Beams Experiment |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMHD401 | Marine Hydrodynamics | Core | 4 | Potential Flow Theory, Viscous Flow and Boundary Layers, Wave Hydrodynamics, Linearized Wave Theory, Hydrodynamic Forces on Bodies |
| BMSR401 | Ship Resistance and Propulsion | Core | 4 | Components of Ship Resistance, Methods of Resistance Prediction, Propeller Theory, Propeller Design and Performance, Cavitation and Scale Effects |
| BMAM401 | Marine Auxiliary Machinery | Core | 4 | Pumps and Pumping Systems, Compressors and Air Systems, Heat Exchangers and Evaporators, Steering Gear Systems, Deck Machinery |
| BMSH401 | Ship Construction and Drawing | Core | 4 | Structural Components of Ships, Welding and Fabrication Processes, Shipyard Layout and Facilities, Dry Docking and Launching, Classification Rules and Regulations |
| BMOC401 | Oceanography and Meteorology | Core | 3 | Ocean Currents and Tides, Marine Environment and Ecosystems, Atmospheric Phenomena, Weather Forecasting and Navigation, Impact of Climate Change on Oceans |
| BMNA401 | Naval Architecture II | Core | 3 | Ship Freeboard and Load Lines, Subdivision and Floodable Length, Longitudinal Strength, Seakeeping and Ship Motions, Ship Manoeuvring |
| BMED402 | Marine Workshop and Drawing Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Ship Component Drawing, Auxiliary Machinery Drawing, Welding and Fabrication Practice, Pipe Fitting Exercises |
| BMHD402 | Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Resistance Experiments with Ship Models, Propeller Open Water Tests, Wake Measurement, Cavitation Studies |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMIC501 | Marine Internal Combustion Engines | Core | 4 | Engine Cycles and Components, Fuel Injection Systems, Scavenging and Supercharging, Engine Performance and Testing, Engine Emission Control |
| BMSS501 | Ship Structures | Core | 4 | Structural Elements of Ships, Global Hull Girder Analysis, Local Structural Strength, Finite Element Analysis Application, Ship Vibration |
| BMCE501 | Marine Control Engineering | Core | 4 | Control System Fundamentals, Sensors and Actuators, Feedback Control Systems, PID Controllers and Tuning, Marine Automation Systems |
| BMOT501 | Offshore Technology I | Core | 3 | Offshore Exploration and Production, Fixed Offshore Platforms, Compliant Platforms, Subsea Systems, Mooring Systems |
| BMSD501 | Ship Design I | Core | 3 | Ship Design Spiral, Hull Form Optimization, Preliminary Design Calculations, General Arrangement Design, Weight and Stability Estimates |
| BMFE501 | Finite Element Methods in Naval Architecture | Elective | 3 | FEM Basics and Theory, Element Types and Meshing, Structural Analysis Applications, Hydrodynamic Applications of FEM, Software Implementation |
| BMRAC501 | Marine Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | Elective | 3 | Refrigeration Cycles, Refrigeration System Components, Marine HVAC Systems, Cold Storage on Ships, Air Conditioning Load Calculation |
| BMSU501 | Subsea Engineering | Elective | 3 | Subsea Pipelines and Risers, Subsea Production Systems, Subsea Christmas Trees, Installation and Intervention Systems, ROVs and AUVs |
| BMSS502 | Ship Structure Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Structural Analysis using Software, Finite Element Modeling, Load Testing of Beams and Plates, Material Characterization Tests |
| BMCE502 | Marine Control Engineering Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Control System Experiments, PID Controller Tuning, Sensor Calibration and Testing, Marine Automation System Simulation |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMSY601 | Ship Yard Management | Core | 3 | Shipyard Layout and Facilities, Production Planning and Control, Quality Control in Shipbuilding, Project Management Techniques, Safety Management in Shipyards |
| BMOT601 | Offshore Technology II | Core | 3 | Floating Offshore Platforms (FPSO, Semi-sub), Risks and Pipelines, Installation Methods for Offshore Structures, Offshore Safety and Environmental Aspects, Emerging Offshore Technologies |
| BMSD601 | Ship Design II | Core | 4 | Detailed Design Considerations, Machinery Arrangement, Accommodation and Outfit Design, Economic Analysis of Ship Design, Classification and Regulatory Aspects |
| BMCF601 | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Elective | 3 | Numerical Methods in Fluid Dynamics, Grid Generation Techniques, Navier-Stokes Equations, Turbulence Modeling, CFD Applications in Marine Engineering |
| BMSV601 | Ship Vibration and Noise Control | Elective | 3 | Sources of Ship Vibration and Noise, Vibration Measurement and Analysis, Noise Generation and Propagation, Control Techniques for Vibration and Noise, Isolation Systems |
| BMAP601 | Advanced Marine Propulsion | Elective | 3 | Gas Turbines in Marine Propulsion, Electric and Hybrid Propulsion Systems, Podded Propulsors, Fuel Cells and Alternative Fuels, Nuclear Propulsion Systems |
| BMSE602 | Marine Safety and Environmental Protection | Elective | 3 | Risk Assessment in Marine Operations, Fire Safety on Ships, Marine Pollution Prevention (MARPOL), Accident Investigation, Safety Management Systems (ISM Code) |
| BMDH601 | Dredging and Harbour Engineering | Elective | 3 | Dredging Methods and Equipment, Harbour Planning and Design, Breakwaters and Quay Walls, Navigation Aids and Port Operations, Environmental Impact of Harbour Projects |
| BMRE601 | Marine Renewable Energy | Elective | 3 | Ocean Wave Energy Conversion, Tidal Energy Technologies, Offshore Wind Energy, Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion, Marine Biomass Energy |
| BQT601 | Total Quality Management | Open Elective | 3 | Quality Concepts and Evolution, TQM Principles and Philosophies, Quality Tools and Techniques, ISO Standards and Certification, Six Sigma Methodology |
| BPC601 | Professional Communication | Open Elective | 3 | Interpersonal Communication, Technical Writing Skills, Effective Presentation Techniques, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution, Cross-Cultural Communication |
| BMIC602 | Marine Internal Combustion Engines Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Engine Performance Testing, Fuel Consumption Measurement, Emission Analysis, Engine Fault Diagnosis, Maintenance Procedures |
| BMSD602 | Ship Design Drawing and CAD Laboratory | Lab | 2 | Ship Design Software Usage, 3D Modeling of Ship Structures, Generation of Classification Drawings, Production Drawings |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMLC701 | Maritime Legislation and Classification | Core | 3 | IMO Conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW), International Codes (ISM, ISPS), Classification Societies and Their Role, Survey and Certification Procedures, Port State Control |
| BMVD701 | Vessel Dynamics and Seakeeping | Core | 4 | Ship Motions in Waves, Equations of Motion, Roll Stabilization Systems, Heave, Pitch, and Yaw, Slamming and Whipping |
| BMDO701 | Dynamics of Offshore Structures | Elective | 3 | Wave Loading on Offshore Structures, Current and Wind Loading, Dynamic Response of Structures, Fatigue Analysis, Earthquake Engineering for Offshore |
| BMES701 | Marine Electrical Systems | Elective | 3 | Marine Power Generation, Electrical Distribution Systems, Switchgear and Protection, Motor Control and Drives, Electrical Safety in Marine Environment |
| BMTW701 | Welding Technology | Elective | 3 | Welding Processes and Equipment, Weld Defects and Quality Control, Welding Metallurgy, Automation in Welding, Underwater Welding |
| BMCP701 | Marine Corrosion and Prevention | Elective | 3 | Types of Marine Corrosion, Corrosion Mechanisms, Corrosion Protection Methods, Marine Coatings and Paints, Sacrificial Anodes and Cathodic Protection |
| BMRI701 | Risk and Reliability in Offshore Engineering | Elective | 3 | Risk Analysis Methodologies, Reliability Assessment, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, Consequence Analysis, Safety Cases and Regulations |
| BMCO701 | Coastal Engineering | Elective | 3 | Wave Theories and Transformations, Coastal Processes (Erosion, Deposition), Shoreline Protection Structures, Harbour Design Principles, Coastal Zone Management |
| BOR701 | Operations Research | Open Elective | 3 | Linear Programming, Transportation and Assignment Problems, Queuing Theory, Network Analysis, Simulation Models |
| BIM701 | Industrial Management | Open Elective | 3 | Principles of Management, Production Planning and Control, Inventory Management, Marketing Management, Human Resource Management |
| BMPW701 | Project Work - Phase I | Project | 6 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Extensive Literature Review, Development of Methodology, Preliminary Design or Analysis, Project Proposal and Planning |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BPEH801 | Professional Ethics and Human Values | Core | 3 | Engineering Ethics and Morality, Professional Responsibility, Human Values in Engineering, Environmental Ethics, Global Issues and Corporate Social Responsibility |
| BMPW801 | Project Work - Phase II | Project | 12 | Detailed Design and Development, Advanced Analysis and Simulation, Fabrication/Prototyping (if applicable), Testing and Evaluation, Comprehensive Report and Presentation |
| BMIN801 | Internship / Industrial Training | Internship | 6 | On-the-Job Industrial Experience, Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Exposure to Industry Practices, Report Writing on Training, Professional Skill Development |




