Postgraduate Diploma in RIB and Tubular Architecture
The Postgraduate Diploma in RIB and Tubular Architecture provides in-depth training in the design and construction of architectural structures using RIB (ribbed hull) systems and tubular elements. It focuses on the application of structural calculation, 3D modelling and the use of BIM software to optimise the efficiency and aesthetics of projects. It explores materials such as steel and concrete, and addresses sustainability and energy efficiency in design. The diploma aims to develop skills in stress analysis, construction detailing and project management, preparing participants for professional roles in the construction sector.
The programme offers practical experience in the design and simulation of structures, including the assessment of loads and the strength of materials. It places strong emphasis on current regulations and quality standards in construction. This training prepares professionals for roles such as architects, structural engineers, designers and builders, strengthening their ability to tackle complex and cutting-edge projects.
Postgraduate Diploma in RIB and Tubular Architecture — studying from the United States
Naval and offshore engineering in the United States is concentrated in Virginia, Maine, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Shipbuilders such as HII (Huntington Ingalls Industries) and General Dynamics Electric Boat design and construct naval vessels, while offshore energy firms develop platforms and subsea systems. The recreational marine sector, including boat builders in Florida and the Carolinas, adds demand for hull, propulsion and marine systems expertise. Classification societies and government regulators set rigorous standards for safety and performance.
Fees for the United States: US$1,220 (US Dollars), with instalments and employer sponsorship available.
Relevant bodies in the United States
Typical roles
Questions from the United States
Which US bodies relate to naval, offshore, and marine engineering?
Relevant bodies include the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME), the American Bureau of Shipping as a classification society, and the US Coast Guard, which regulates vessel safety. Professional PE licensure is issued by state boards. SEIUM's private qualifications are not accredited by any national body, so acceptance is decided by employers or these bodies.
Where do marine and offshore engineers typically work in the US?
Common employers include shipyards, naval architecture firms, offshore energy companies, marine equipment suppliers, and sports boat builders. Roles include naval architect, marine systems engineer, and offshore project engineer. Employers judge candidates on experience and technical ability, so a private qualification should be presented alongside practical evidence of skill.
Is the programme workable for someone with a full-time job?
The programmes are online and taught in English, so you can study from home without a student visa. Workload ranges from 300 hours for specialist courses to 1,900 hours for master's programmes, so estimate your weekly time carefully. An assigned technical tutor supports you, and fees can be paid in instalments.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this field. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Describe the types of inflatable and semi-rigid boats and their applications.
Design the rigid hull of a RIB, taking into account its behaviour at sea.
Size the tubes and their buoyancy compartmentation in accordance with ISO 6185.
Select the propulsion and equipment in accordance with the maximum permissible power.
Define manufacturing processes for hulls and tube fabrication.
Plan the maintenance and repair of fabrics and joints.
Develop the design project for a RIB.
Who it's for
- Semi-rigid boat designer who wants to specialise in RIB and Tubular Architecture.
- Inflatable boat manufacturing technician who wants to specialise in RIB and Tubular Architecture.
- Marine product engineer who wants to specialise in RIB and Tubular Architecture.
- RIB maintenance technician who wants to specialise in RIB and Tubular Architecture.
- Marine quality inspector who wants to specialise in RIB and Tubular Architecture.
- Fleet manager for auxiliary craft who wants to specialise in RIB and Tubular Architecture.
- Graduates in engineering or sciences seeking to enter inflatable and semi-rigid boat shipyards.
What you'll work with
- ISO 6185 (inflatable boats)
- Directive 2013/53/EU (recreational craft)
- ISO 12215-5 (hull scantlings)
- ISO 12217-1 (stability and buoyancy)
- ISO 11592-1 (determination of maximum propulsion power)
- ISO 10087 (identification of craft)
8 modules · 800 h
1.1History and evolution of RIBs1.2Typologies: inflatable, RIB and foam-filled tubular boats1.3Applications: recreational, rescue and professional1.4Parts of a RIB1.5ISO 6185 standard1.6Directive 2013/53/EU on recreational craft1.7Design categories A to D1.8Manufacturers and market1.9Advantages and limitations1.10Practical case: analysis of a commercial RIB
2.1Deep-V hull shapes2.2Deadrise angle2.3Keels and chines2.4Planing and resistance to advance2.5Stability and freeboard2.6Scantlings according to ISO 122152.7Fibre and aluminium laminates2.8Slamming loads2.9Integration of the tube with the hull2.10Workshop: sizing a RIB hull
3.1Materials: Hypalon, CSM and PVC3.2Support fabrics and coatings3.3Compartmentation and buoyancy3.4Inflation pressure and valves3.5Tube diameter and taper3.6Foam-filled tubes3.7Bonding and heat-sealing joints3.8Attachment to the hull3.9Abrasion protection3.10Practical exercise: reserve buoyancy calculation
4.1Selection of outboard engine4.2Maximum power according to ISO 61854.3Engine and transom installation4.4Waterjet propulsion on RIBs4.5Consoles, seating and cushioning4.6Electrical installations4.7Fuel systems4.8Towing and transport4.9Safety equipment4.10Laboratory: estimation of speed and power
5.1Dynamic stability at high speed5.2Porpoising and chine walking5.3Vertical accelerations and human impact5.4Behaviour in head and following seas5.5Sea trials and measurement5.6Ergonomics and whole-body vibration5.7SOLAS rescue craft5.8Fast rescue boats5.9Professional interceptors5.10Practical case: analysis of accelerations in a trial
6.1Lamination process and moulds6.2Vacuum infusion6.3Tube fabrication6.4Quality control in the factory6.5Leak and pressure testing6.6Documentation and CE marking6.7Builder's plate6.8Owner's manual6.9Series production6.10Workshop: quality control plan
7.1Periodic inspection of tubes7.2Repair of punctures and delamination7.3Replacement of tubes7.4Fibre repair7.5Engine maintenance7.6Storage and winterising7.7UV and chemical degradation7.8Service life and recycling7.9Inspection of rescue boats7.10Practical exercise: repair procedure for a tube
8.1Use requirements and category8.2Main shapes and dimensions8.3Hull scantlings8.4Tube design8.5Propulsion selection8.6Layout and equipment8.7ISO compliance and CE marking8.8Manufacturing plan and costs8.9Report and presentation8.10Final review with the tutor
How you'll learn
100 % online training on the SEIUM campus, with downloadable material, recorded classes and an assigned technical tutor. There are no fixed timetables: students progress at their own pace within the enrolment period, making it possible to combine the programme with work.
Each module combines theory, guided reading of the original standard and applied exercises. The working software includes Maxsurf, Rhinoceros 3D, Orca3D, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, in free, academic or evaluation versions. Tests are studied using real procedures for pressure and leak testing of tubes, sea trials with a semi-rigid boat, and laminating and fabrication workshops. Assessment is continuous by module, plus a final integrating project.
Build it end to end
Your final project follows the real engineering workflow, step by step, reviewed by your tutor.
Describe the types of inflatable and semi-rigid boats and their applications.
Design the rigid hull of a RIB, taking into account its behaviour at sea.
Size the tubes and their buoyancy compartmentation in accordance with ISO 6185.
Select the propulsion and equipment in accordance with the maximum permissible power.
Define manufacturing processes for hulls and tube fabrication.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- Prior technical training or professional experience in the sector. A university degree is not required.
- Internet connection and a computer capable of running the programme's software.
- Sufficient Spanish level to follow technical regulatory texts.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
The programme comprises 800 hours in total, spread over 6 to 8 months. That is an average of 10 to 15 hours per week, compatible with a full-time job.
The programme uses Maxsurf, Rhinoceros 3D, Orca3D, SolidWorks and AutoCAD. Free, academic or evaluation versions are used, and the tutor indicates the free alternative where one exists.
An SEIUM own diploma upon passing the continuous assessment and the integrating project. It is in-house training, not an official Ministry qualification.
Yes. Modules passed in a course or postgraduate diploma in the same area are credited towards the advanced programme. Check the recognition policy when you enrol.
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