Professional Diploma in Offshore Concrete Construction

What is this programme?

This professional diploma prepares you to take part in the design and construction of offshore concrete structures, such as gravity-based foundations, caissons and floating platforms for offshore wind. The programme covers how concrete behaves in the marine environment, design against fatigue and cyclic loading, fabrication in dry docks and at quayside, transport and installation at sea, and inspection and maintenance throughout the service life of the structure.

The programme stands out for its specialisation in marine structural concrete, its coverage of the full chain from design to installation, its focus on durability against corrosion and chemical attack, its direct application to the growth of offshore wind, and a practical case study in which you plan the construction of a gravity-based structure.

Programme highlights

• Distinguish between gravity-based structures, caissons and floating platforms.
• Apply durability criteria for concrete in the marine environment.
• Understand the effect of cyclic wave and wind loading on concrete structures.
• Organise the fabrication, transport and installation of offshore concrete structures.
• Professional orientation towards construction companies, engineering consultancies and offshore wind developers.
• A practical case study on planning the construction of a gravity-based structure.

Study plan

Duration and format

At 10 hours a week you would finish in about 80 weeks; at 20 hours a week, in about 40.

What you will learn

• Understand offshore concrete structures.
• Understand durability in the marine environment.
• Apply offshore structural design criteria.
• Plan fabrication.
• Organise transport and installation.
• Manage the structure's life cycle.

Career outcomes

• Offshore concrete structures engineer.
• Production manager.
• Marine installation engineer.
• Concrete quality technician.
• Structural integrity technician.
• Offshore wind consultant.

Entry requirements

• Profile: a degree in Civil, Materials, Naval or a related engineering discipline, or professional experience in concrete construction or maritime works.
• Language: sufficient command of the language of instruction to follow the classes and materials. A working knowledge of technical English is recommended, since much of the sector's regulation and documentation is written in English.
• Technical resources: a computer with a stable internet connection, an up-to-date browser and a camera for live sessions and project defences.
• Admission process: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team. Enrolment is open all year round; admission is provisional until the committee validates your documentation.

How to enrol