Students wishing to participate in the design of structures such as docks or offshore mining platforms might do well to first complete a program in maritime engineering. Courses often included in these programs are hydrodynamics and ship design.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.

Online learning refers to use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. With online learning one has the flexibility to access their studies at any time and from anywhere they can log on.