Education and training for marine designers: A students' perspective

A new profession is emerging in the marine industry - the "marine designer". Although similar to the Naval Architect, this professional is different in his or her approach to designing a boat - the marine designer will focus on the human, psychological, ergonomic, emotional and symbolic aspects of the design. The newness of the profession creates not only excitement for the students because they get to define its future, but also some difficulties. This paper talks about the education of marine designers, focusing on two main areas. Firstly, the marine design courses from across the world are classified and described to give an overview of what is available. Secondly, the results of a student survey conducted in December 2005 are presented as a discussion of the students' thoughts and opinions on the present and the future of marine design. The paper concludes with recommendations and advice to the industry, educational institutions and students based on the findings of the student survey and the marine design courses' review.