• Postgraduate

Maritime Business Management MSc

Register for open day
Register for open day
Overview

Overview

Whether you want to kick-start a brand-new career, boost your existing experience or change your career direction in the dynamic shipping industry, our MSc Maritime Business Management can provide you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to flourish.

With Greek-owned maritime businesses supplying 22% of the world's tonnage, it is expected there will be over 100,000 future jobs in areas where global maritime businesses have offices such as Athens, Dubai, Limassol, London and Singapore.

Which is where this maritime business management course, delivered by the Hellenic Institute of Maritime Studies, comes in.

Providing you with both theoretical knowledge of maritime business and practical business skills through case studies and scenarios of actual challenges and problems from everyday business, the course focuses on four key areas:

  • employability: graduates will be positioned favourably in the local and international shipping market; we are in contact with most UK shipping companies to facilitate your career aspirations and give you a head start to those without prior work experience in the field.
  • industry links: our strong links with the industry allow us to invite professional experts in the maritime industry as guest lecturers enabling students to enhance their educational experience.
  • balance of theory and practice: the course offers both advanced knowledge and practical skills in international shipping.
  • flexibility of subject area focus: the two pathways and wide range of optional modules allow participants to focus on the desired specialisation area.

Upon successful completion, you will be ideally set to excel in your professional career, leading to higher levels of managerial positions in shipping companies and other organisations.

Cargo ship loaded with containers crossing the sea

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Maritime Business Management with us?

Why study Maritime Business Management with us?

A collage of students

What our students say…

I graduated in 2020 from the Business College of Athens with a bachelor's degree (First Class Honours) and a master's degree (Distinction) in maritime business management. I am incredibly grateful for my overall experience, for the opportunities, and for everyone I had the opportunity to interact with. I am currently working in the Operations Dept. of Stealth Maritime Corp. S.A.. I strongly recommend that all individuals who wish to expand their horizons and stand out in the respective field, trust BCA for the acquisition of knowledge, skills, experiences, opportunities, and acquaintances that will last a lifetime. 

Gerasimos Thomatos, MSc Maritime Business Management, Business College of Athens
Next
The course is studied in an Ideal location close to the international maritime centre of London
This course aims to enhance your career prospects by training you for managerial roles
The Hellenic Institute of Maritime Studies has links with over 120 maritime organisations and associations
This course is delivered by the Hellanic Institute of Maritime Studies and supported by the Business College of Athens
Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

Delivered by the Hellenic Institute of Maritime Studies (HIMS) with support from the Business College of Athens (BCA), the MSc Maritime Business Management is designed for graduates and professionals seeking an in-depth education and aiming to expand their knowledge and skills in the dynamic shipping industry.

HIMS's close proximity to the international traditional maritime centre of London means it is ideally placed to deliver the precise combination of business and maritime experience that is sought after by employers. 

Our strong industry links with organisations such as IMO, BIMCO, ICS, International Chamber of Shipping, The Baltic Exchange, The International Underwriting Association, The Nautical Institute, UK Chamber of Shipping, Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee, and more, mean our graduates are well equipped to enter a variety of managerial roles and build a rewarding career.

Additionally, HIMS is linked to BCA College, the oldest Maritime Business School in Greece and Europe. BCA has offered maritime business studies since 1971, and has produced more than 10.000 alumni now working with some of the largest ship management companies in Athens, Limassol, Singapore, Genoa and more.

How does the course work? 

The curriculum comprises two main elements:

  • the core
  • the specialisation element. 

The core

At the core element, attendees will gain advanced, yet fundamental skills and knowledge of topics of the shipping industry. You will study the listed compulsory modules before going on to specialising in your chosen path.

Specialisation

At the specialisation level, you can further refine your skills and knowledge at an advanced level through a series of optional modules.

You can follow one of these three paths:

  • general pathway: choice of two optional modules from HR and Crew Management in Shipping, Shipping Operations, Maritime Technology, Port Economics and Operations, Shipping Finance and Investment, Chartering Practice and Methods, Ship Sale and Purchase, Carriage of Goods by Sea, Marine Insurance and Sustainable Shipping.
  • shipping finance pathway: you will study two modules, Shipping Finance and Investment along with Ship Sale and Purchase.
  • maritime technology pathway: you will gain knowledge in Maritime Technology and Sustainable Shipping.  

You will study five compulsory modules and choose from two optional modules depending on your chosen pathway.

Compulsory modules

  • Maritime Economics

    During this module, you will learn the factors affecting supply of ships and the distinction between effective and prospective supply. You will evaluate fleet productivity and the factors affecting it as well as discovering the factors affecting demand of ships in the three major markets of bulk, tanker and liner shipping with particular focus on market structure, economic development, trade routes, average haul, and natural and political events.

  • Maritime Legal Aspects

    The purpose of this module is to acquaint you with how the law operates within the shipping industry on a worldwide basis. Additionally, it aims to help you create problem-solving skills by introducing a detailed, yet also practical aspect, of the shipping legal affairs, and provide you with the essential legal knowledge to act as basis on which you can expand and specialise further.

  • Maritime Policy and Regulations

    Laws, Rules and Regulations are the tools, through which Policies are being implemented. In the shipping industry, IMO is the main Policy Maker globally, but its resolutions have to become national laws, in order to be applied. Other Maritime Policy Makers (through establishment of Rules and Regulations) are the European Union, the USA and other major countries. But regarding Rules and Regulations these are not the only ones. International Organisations (ILO, ISO) and Industry Organisations (OCIMF, RightShip) are also key players both in establishing regulations and ensuring compliance with them.

  • Commercial Shipping Management

    The module starts with the definition and main aspects of strategic planning within Commercial Shipping Management and the necessity of assessing both the External and Internal environment of a Shipping Company. Particular focus is provided in the Management of Resources and the Human Element. Emphasis is placed upon the practical elements of ship operations. Furthermore, you will analyse the modern shipping management best practices such as Engagement and Resilience, Management of Change and Risk Management. Finally, the module will discuss the importance of performance monitoring and management applied in shipping via a balanced scorecard approach of Safety-Efficiency-Financial Performance. ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) principles are applied to a shipping business within a management system approach incorporating industry best practices guidelines with a clear emphasis on the Environmental pillar in accordance with IMO 2050 targets. 

  • Research Methods and Dissertation/Project

    The module exposes you to contemporary perspectives in academic research, and in particular focuses on developing a range of skills affecting the identification and formulation of project titles. Special focus is placed on the critical review of available literature and information resources, the use of online databases and other sources. Emphasis is given to the methods used in scientific research, reviewing a range of statistical and non-statistical methods of analysis appropriate for projects in terms of both qualitative and quantitative research. You will become aware of any research issues associated with conducting research. Finally, you will carry out and submit an original piece of independent research work, adding to existing knowledge and demonstrating an ability to select, define and focus on the topic chosen in your research proposal at an appropriate level.

Optional modules

  • Shipping Operatons

    The module focuses on ship operation techniques with an emphasis on the practical aspects of the subject. The role and functions of the operations department as a link between the ship and its owner, charterer and cargo interests are critically evaluated.

  • Port Economics and Operations

    The module explores the main aspects of port economics and operations and the significance of port management in the maritime logistics industry and shipping.

  • Chartering Practice and Methods

    The module provides an insight into charter party types and clauses. The relevant chartering procedures are effectively presented and you have the possibility to apply such knowledge in a simulated environment.

  • Carriage of Goods by Sea

    This module provides an understanding and analysis of voyage charter parties in relation to the conditions and warranties.

  • Marine Insurance

    The module provides you with an understanding of Marine Insurance Acts, clauses and rules applied and used to explain legal complications of cases arising in practice. It also provides you with knowledge of the Marine Insurance principles that apply to the cases examined.

  • Shipping Finance and Investment (core for the Shipping Finance pathway)

    The module provides you with knowledge on topics regarding the financial policy of shipping companies with emphasis on investment programmes, capital structure, cost of capital and payout policy.

  • Ship Sale and Purchase (core for the Shipping Finance pathway)

    The module provides you with a comprehensive analysis of Company Law, with particular reference to the types of ship owning companies, state corporations and offshore companies. Furthermore, issues of incorporation, procedure followed and prerequisites before the initial establishment of a shipping company are discussed in detail.

  • Maritime Technology (core for the Maritime Technology pathway)

    This module provides you with an all-round practical insight to Maritime Technology and knowledge for working within a systems engineering context as well as on the levels of assurance required for safety and environmental protection aspects of technological development. 

    Main topics to be dealt with are all issues with a decisive impact in shipping. The technology system ship is focused, giving emphasis to an overview of state-of-the-art technologies, but also looking what the future will bring.

  • Sustainable Shipping (core for the Maritime Technology pathway)

    This module centres around the concept of sustainability being integral to ensuring shipping companies can continue to operate on a planet with finite resources and deliver benefits to both shareholders and society. Sustainability challenges and opportunities for shipping are analysed, including the importance of good leadership in achieving change.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

You should have an honours degree (2:2 or above) from a UK university or equivalent. Merchant Marine Academy graduates or holders of equivalent qualifications can be admitted. 

We will also consider mature applicants without a first degree, as long as they possess:

  • the highest-grade certificate of competency (CoC) for unrestricted service as a master mariner or chief engineer, or equivalent maritime qualifications

AND

  • substantial relevant professional experience
  • competence in English language, demonstrated by an internationally recognised standard test (see the full English language requirements below)
  • computer competence (at least the ability to use Microsoft Office).

We may also offer applicants a place based on relevant experience or training, normally from within the work environment. All applications are considered individually.

6.5 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement of 6.5 overall score for IELTS, with a minimum of 5.5 for each of the 4 individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents.

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements. Find out more about our English Language courses.

Fees & funding

Fees & funding

{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_uk_eu_main_fee.name) }} per year

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

If you are studying a Masters course you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan, this may help contribute towards your course fees and living costs.

Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as disabled students or those with dependants.

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries, including awards for specific subjects. Awards for business students are also on offer. 

Help with funding
{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_int_main_fee.name) }} per year

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Financial support for international students
Study & career progression

Study & career progression

Cargo containers in port

We have strong links with national and international employers and our graduates find employment in multiple sectors, often in senior positions. 

The maritime management course will help you pursue a career in fields such as:

  • international trade and commerce
  • logistics
  • maritime insurance
  • shipping economics
  • port management
  • dockyard management
  • shipping laws.

Recent maritime business management graduates have gone on to work in roles such as:

  • port manager
  • merchant officer
  • shipping manager
  • yard manager

After completing your studies, you may also consider applying for a doctoral course. 

How to apply

How to apply

Search for courses

Contact us

Please get in touch with Georgios Sigalas, Senior Lecturer at the Claude Littner Business School, to find out more about this course.

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.