Studying maritime studies abroad
What is maritime studies?
Maritime studies is the study of the world’s oceans, seas, and waterways, and how humans interact with them. It covers the science, management, and operations of maritime activities, including shipping, navigation, marine resources, and environmental protection. This field explores issues such as oceanography, maritime law, port management, and sustainable use of marine ecosystems.
The subject combines knowledge from marine science, engineering, logistics, and economics. As a maritime studies student, you will learn how human activity impacts oceans and coastal areas and how to manage maritime resources responsibly. Your studies may take you from lecture halls and laboratories to ports, coastal regions, and aboard research vessels.
Why study maritime studies abroad?
Studying maritime studies in another country allows you to gain practical experience in different marine environments. You could sail on training ships, visit busy international ports, explore coral reefs, or study coastal management projects. Seeing real-world maritime operations helps you understand the complexities of the field far better than textbooks alone.
International study also gives you a global perspective on maritime trade, conservation challenges, and policy frameworks. You will develop important skills in cross-cultural communication and build connections with international shipping companies, marine research centres, and regulatory organisations.
What you will study
Maritime studies programs typically combine theoretical learning with hands-on training. Key areas of study may include:
- Navigation and Seamanship – understanding ship operations and safe navigation
- Marine Engineering – learning about ship systems and ocean technology
- Maritime Law and Policy – studying regulations, shipping law, and international treaties
- Port and Logistics Management – managing cargo, transport, and supply chains
- Oceanography and Marine Ecology – exploring ocean systems and environmental issues
- Research and Data Analysis – collecting and interpreting marine and operational data
Many programs also offer internships, field trips, or placements with shipping companies, port authorities, or marine conservation organisations.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Marine Engineering
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Environmental Science
- Naval Architecture
- Oceanography
Accreditation
At the undergraduate level, students may earn a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Maritime Studies or related degrees such as Marine Science, Marine Engineering, or Shipping and Logistics. Some universities offer Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs that integrate maritime studies with policy, economics, or international business.
Postgraduate options include a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Research (MRes) in Maritime Studies, Marine Management, or Maritime Law. Specialisations can focus on sustainable shipping, marine resource management, or port operations. A PhD is generally required for academic research or high-level policy roles.
Professional accreditation is often available in areas such as ship management, maritime safety, or marine surveying through recognised maritime organisations.
Careers
A degree in maritime studies can lead to careers in shipping, port management, marine research, and policy. Graduates may work as maritime officers, logistics managers, marine conservationists, or port administrators, advising organisations on sustainable and efficient maritime operations.
Other opportunities include working as oceanographers, marine policy analysts, or consultants in shipping companies, non-profits, and international maritime agencies. Research and training roles are also available in universities, marine institutes, and global think tanks.
Beyond these positions, maritime studies graduates can become educators, community outreach coordinators, or maritime writers. The skills you acquire are highly valued worldwide, opening doors to careers that influence global maritime trade, ocean conservation, and sustainable resource management.