Marine Engineering Operations
The Marine Engineering Operations programme at Istanbul Technical University is a four-year English-medium degree designed for students who want to work on ships and understand how marine engines and ship machinery operate. The programme teaches the fundamentals of marine engineering, thermodynamics, mechanics, ship systems and maritime safety. Students learn how engines work, how ship machinery is maintained, and how technical operations are managed on board. The curriculum includes theoretical courses, laboratory training and hands-on practice, helping students develop both engineering knowledge and operational skills needed at sea.
The programme also prepares students for life on board with simulator sessions, safety courses and practical training periods. Students learn teamwork, responsibility and decision-making — essential skills for marine engineers. The environment at ITU allows students to work with experienced instructors and learn through real maritime scenarios. By the end of the programme, students gain technical competence, practical sea experience and the qualifications needed to take national licence exams. The degree provides a strong foundation for an international maritime career and offers opportunities to work on commercial vessels, maritime companies and engineering firms worldwide.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters (4 years)
- Location: Istanbul, Turkey
- Study Type: Undergraduate, full-time, English-medium
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Marine Engineering, Ship Machinery, Maritime Technology, Engine Operations
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Marine Engineering Foundations
- Mathematics I
- Physics I
- Introduction to Marine Engineering
- Academic English / Marine English I
Semester 2 – Basic Ship Machinery & Engineering
- Mathematics II
- Thermodynamics I
- Basic Ship Machinery Systems
- Physics II or Laboratory Course
Semester 3 – Core Marine Systems I
- Fluid Mechanics
- Marine Electrical Systems
- Marine Boilers & Heat Transfer
- Elective / General Course
Semester 4 – Core Marine Systems II
- Marine Engines I
- Maritime Safety & Emergency Operations
- Ship Auxiliary Machinery
- Elective or Lab Course
Semester 5 – Practical Marine Engineering
- Marine Engines II
- Machine Maintenance & Fault Detection
- Marine Control Systems
- Elective Course
Semester 6 – Advanced Systems & Sea Training
- Ship Automation Systems
- Power Plant Operations
- Sea Training I / On-board Practice
- Elective Course
Semester 7 – Professional Marine Operations
- Sea Training II / Voyage Practice
- Marine Engineering Management
- Research Methods / Technical Writing
- Elective Course
Semester 8 – Capstone & Graduation Preparation
- Final Year Project / Marine Engineering Project
- Advanced Elective (Machinery, Energy, Systems)
- Career Preparation / Portfolio
- Graduation Requirements
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme can work as marine engineers, engine officers (after licence), ship machinery specialists, technical superintendents, maintenance engineers, or shipyard engineers. They may join global shipping companies, ship management firms, offshore operations, maritime agencies or industrial engineering sectors. The programme also prepares students for land-based maritime careers such as technical inspection, shipyard operations, machinery design and maintenance planning. With strong English skills and hands-on training, graduates can work internationally as part of global fleets or engineering companies.
Why Choose This Program
This programme is ideal for students who enjoy engineering, machinery and working in a dynamic environment. It teaches both theoretical and practical skills, from understanding marine engines to managing on-board systems. Students receive hands-on training through simulators, labs and sea practice, helping them prepare for real working conditions. The learning environment encourages problem-solving, teamwork and technical thinking, which strengthens students' confidence and abilities.
Another strong reason to choose this programme is its international structure. Since the language of instruction is English, graduates can work on ships worldwide or join international maritime companies. The programme gives students the chance to develop operational, mechanical and leadership skills that are valued in the maritime industry. With sea training, up-to-date courses and strong academic support, students gain a solid foundation for a successful and global maritime engineering career.
Contact Information
Istanbul Technical University – Maritime Faculty
Tuzla Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 000 00 00
Email: info@itu.edu.tr
Marine Engineering Operations Department – Programme Office
Tuzla Campus, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 000 00 00
Email: marineengineering@itu.edu.tr
International / Admissions Office – ITU
Istanbul Technical University
Tel: +90 212 285 00 00
Email: international@itu.edu.tr
