MSc Maritime Logistics and Business

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

This MSc gives you a unique opportunity to specialize in the fast-growing maritime logistics sector, combining advanced supply chain knowledge with business management skills. It’s designed for graduates and professionals who want to build careers in global shipping, port operations, and maritime business strategy, while gaining international exposure through Heriot-Watt’s collaboration with Piri Reis University in Istanbul.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first semester, you’ll study Maritime Logistics and International Business, gaining a strong foundation in how global shipping networks operate and how businesses manage trade across borders. You’ll also explore Operations Management, learning to optimize processes and improve efficiency in maritime contexts.

The second semester focuses on Port Management and Strategy, where you’ll analyze the role of ports in global trade and sustainability. Alongside this, modules such as Global Purchasing and Supply and Maritime Economics prepare you to understand procurement, freight transport, and the economic forces shaping the industry.

Year 2 (Final stage)

You’ll complete a Master’s Dissertation, applying your knowledge to a research project that addresses real-world maritime challenges. Many students choose topics linked to sustainability, digitalization, or port efficiency, often benefiting from Heriot-Watt’s industry connections and the expertise of Piri Reis University faculty.

Focus Areas

Maritime logistics, port management, international business, global supply chains, maritime economics, sustainability in shipping.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to manage complex maritime supply chains, evaluate port operations strategically, apply international business practices, and lead organizations in adapting to global shipping challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is delivered by Edinburgh Business School and benefits from Heriot-Watt’s international accreditation standards. Collaboration with Piri Reis University, a specialist maritime institution, ensures industry relevance and global recognition.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Heriot-Watt University is ranked #281 globally in QS World University Rankings and #38 in the UK. Its graduates are known for strong employability, with alumni working in shipping companies, port authorities, consultancies, and international trade organizations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This MSc is designed to give you more than just classroom knowledge — it immerses you in the real-world maritime industry. Through Heriot-Watt’s collaboration with Piri Reis University in Istanbul, you’ll gain international exposure, practical insights into port operations, and hands-on experience with logistics challenges. The program emphasizes applied learning, combining case studies, industry-linked projects, and access to specialist facilities so you graduate with the confidence to step directly into global maritime roles.

To show you exactly how you’ll build these skills, here are the experiential opportunities and facilities tied to this program:

Dual-award structure with Piri Reis University: You’ll study across two institutions, gaining international perspectives and direct access to maritime expertise in Istanbul, one of the world’s busiest shipping hubs.
Industry-focused dissertation projects: Your final research project is often linked to real maritime business and logistics challenges, giving you the chance to apply theory to practice.
Collaborative group projects: Modules such as Maritime Logistics and Port Management and Strategy include team-based assignments where you’ll work with peers to solve complex shipping and supply chain problems.
Specialist maritime teaching environment: Delivered through Edinburgh Business School, you’ll benefit from Heriot-Watt’s modern learning spaces, research libraries, and digital databases, alongside Piri Reis University’s maritime-focused facilities.
Access to global business tools: Courses like International Business and Maritime Economics train you to use digital analytics and economic modeling tools to evaluate shipping markets and trade flows.
Professional networking opportunities: The program’s international collaboration and accreditation links connect you with industry professionals, port authorities, and shipping companies.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this MSc are well-prepared to step into leadership roles across the global maritime sector. Typical career paths include Port Operations Manager, Maritime Business Analyst, Supply Chain Consultant, and Shipping Logistics Coordinator. With its international collaboration and strong industry focus, the program ensures you’ll be ready to thrive in both corporate and public sector organizations.

And here’s how Heriot-Watt supports your career journey:

University career services: The Careers and Graduate Futures Service offers tailored support including CV workshops, employer networking events, and one-to-one guidance, helping you secure roles in maritime logistics and international business.
Employment stats and salary figures: Heriot-Watt reports that 95% of graduates are in employment or further study within 6 months of graduation, with logistics and maritime roles offering competitive salaries globally.
University–industry partnerships: Delivered in collaboration with Piri Reis University in Istanbul, the program connects you to one of the world’s busiest shipping hubs and its industry networks.
Long-term accreditation value: The MSc is delivered through Edinburgh Business School, ensuring international recognition and alignment with professional standards in logistics and business.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni progress into positions with shipping companies, port authorities, consultancies, and international trade organizations, applying their expertise to improve efficiency and sustainability in maritime operations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you could continue your academic journey by pursuing a PhD in Maritime Business, Logistics, or Sustainable Supply Chain Management at Heriot-Watt or other leading universities. This pathway allows you to deepen your research expertise, contribute to innovations in global shipping, and position yourself for academic or high-level consultancy careers.