Studying shipping abroad
What is shipping?
Shipping is the study of how goods are transported across the world by sea, air, and land. It focuses on the logistics, management, and operations involved in moving products safely and efficiently. Topics include maritime law, freight management, port operations, and supply chain coordination.
The field draws on knowledge from business, logistics, economics, and international trade. As a shipping student, you will learn how transportation networks work, how shipping companies operate, and what strategies help goods reach markets on time. Your studies might take you from classrooms to ports, shipping terminals, and logistics hubs.
Why study shipping abroad?
Studying shipping in another country allows you to observe global trade in practice. You could visit busy ports, learn about international shipping regulations, or work alongside shipping companies handling cargo. These experiences help you understand the complexity of global logistics in ways that books alone cannot provide.
Learning in a different country also gives you a broader perspective on international shipping standards and practices. You will develop important skills in communication, cross-cultural teamwork, and professional networking with international companies and agencies.
What you will study
Shipping programmes often combine classroom theory with practical experience. Key areas of study can include:
- Maritime Operations – understanding port activities and cargo handling.
- Freight and Logistics Management – organising efficient transport of goods.
- Supply Chain Coordination – planning and monitoring the movement of products.
- Shipping Law and Regulations – learning legal rules that govern international trade.
- Safety and Risk Management – ensuring secure transportation of goods.
- Research and Data Analysis – evaluating shipping trends and operational data.
Many courses include internships, site visits, and placements with shipping companies, freight forwarders, or logistics organisations.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Logistics
- International Trade
- Transportation Engineering
- Supply Chain Management
- Port and Terminal Management
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Shipping, Maritime Studies, or Logistics. Some universities offer programmes that integrate international trade and transport management.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Science (MSc), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or Master of Research (MRes) in Shipping, Maritime Management, or Supply Chain Studies. Specialisations may include port management, maritime law, or international freight. Professional certifications in shipping and logistics may also be available through industry bodies.
Careers
A degree in shipping can lead to careers in logistics, freight management, maritime operations, and international trade. Graduates often work as shipping coordinators, port managers, freight analysts, or supply chain consultants.
Other opportunities include roles in maritime safety, customs management, and international shipping agencies. You could also join global shipping companies, government transport departments, or consultancy firms.
Beyond these roles, shipping graduates may work in research, teaching, or policy advisory positions in transport and logistics. The skills gained are highly valued worldwide, giving you the chance to contribute to the smooth flow of goods that supports global trade.