MSc International Shipping

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Plymouth

Program Overview

The MSc International Shipping at Plymouth Business School combines over 40 years of maritime expertise with a strong focus on the commercial aspects of shipping, logistics, and ports. It suits graduates and professionals aiming for senior management roles in the maritime industry, offering a truly international learning environment enriched by industry speakers and global networking opportunities.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-time or up to 3 years part-time)

The program is structured around four taught modules plus a capstone project, ensuring a streamlined yet comprehensive learning journey.

Finance and Economics for International Supply Chains (MAR7001): You’ll develop expertise in supply chain economics and financial risk management, with emphasis on maritime contexts.
International Shipping Policy and Port Management (MAR7002): This module explores the policy environment and infrastructure essential for successful port and shipping management.
Maritime Security and Risk Management (MAR7003): Gain practical knowledge of operational and contextual aspects of maritime security, preparing you for leadership in global shipping.
International Logistics and Supply Chain Systems (MAR7004): Learn advanced logistics planning and forecasting, integrating trade and procurement strategies with maritime operations.
Capstone Project (PBS7000): Apply your learning to a consultancy, business analysis, or research project, demonstrating your ability to solve real-world industry challenges.

This integrated design links concepts together as they are in practice, ensuring you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and applied skills.

Focus Areas

Maritime economics, shipping policy, port management, logistics systems, and maritime security.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to critically evaluate shipping and logistics models, manage maritime security risks, apply international trade policies, and lead complex projects in global shipping and port management.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT)
Recognised by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS)
Plymouth Business School is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Plymouth has a global reputation in the maritime industry for producing graduates of the highest calibre.
Alumni association PYNDA connects over 400 maritime graduates worldwide, offering networking and career opportunities.
The University of Plymouth reports strong employability outcomes, with postgraduates working globally in shipping companies, consultancy firms, and government agencies.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the most exciting aspects of the MSc International Shipping is how it immerses you in the real-world maritime industry. You won’t just learn theory—you’ll actively apply your knowledge through consultancy-style projects, industry engagement, and access to Plymouth’s specialist maritime facilities. The program is built on over 40 years of international shipping expertise, meaning you’ll benefit from practical insights, professional accreditation, and direct exposure to global networks. Students gain hands-on experience with shipping policy, port management, logistics systems, and maritime security, while working closely with industry leaders and alumni.

Here’s how your experiential learning comes to life:

Capstone Project (PBS7000): A consultancy or business analysis project where you solve real industry challenges, applying shipping and logistics theories in practice.
Visiting Speakers Programme: Regular lectures and seminars from senior professionals in shipping, ports, and logistics, giving you direct industry perspectives.
Professional Accreditation Activities: Opportunities to align your work with standards set by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), enhancing your employability.
Maritime Security and Risk Management (MAR7003): Practical case studies and group projects focused on operational and contextual aspects of maritime security.
International Shipping Policy and Port Management (MAR7002): Applied learning through policy analysis and port management simulations, preparing you for leadership in port operations.
Digital Tools & Data Resources: Access to international trade and logistics databases through the University’s Charles Seale-Hayne Library, supporting advanced research and forecasting.
Alumni Network (PYNDA): A thriving global association of Plymouth maritime graduates, offering mentoring, networking, and career opportunities in shipping and logistics.
Industry Links: Strong partnerships with shipping companies, port authorities, and logistics firms, ensuring your learning is directly connected to employer needs.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Options to broaden your perspective internationally, making your learning experience global in scope.

This program ensures you graduate not only with academic expertise but also with the confidence and practical skills employers demand in international shipping and port management.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc International Shipping are highly sought after in the global maritime industry. Many progress into senior roles such as Shipping Manager, Port Operations Specialist, Maritime Policy Analyst, or Logistics Consultant, applying their expertise in international trade, port management, and maritime security. With Plymouth’s strong industry reputation and professional accreditation, you’ll be well positioned to thrive in both private and public sector organizations worldwide:

University Services: Plymouth Business School’s Careers Service provides tailored employability support, including CV workshops, interview coaching, and access to exclusive employer networking events. You’ll also benefit from the PYNDA alumni association, a thriving global network of maritime graduates offering mentoring and career opportunities.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: The University of Plymouth reports that 95% of postgraduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation, with maritime graduates securing competitive salaries across international shipping companies, consultancy firms, and government agencies.
University–Industry Partnerships: The program is closely aligned with professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), ensuring your learning is directly connected to employer expectations.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: Accreditation by CILT and recognition by ICS provide graduates with globally respected professional status, enhancing career mobility and credibility across international markets.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have advanced into leadership positions in shipping companies, port authorities, and international logistics firms, supported by Plymouth’s 40+ years of maritime expertise and global reputation.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc International Shipping, you may choose to continue your academic journey with a PhD in International Shipping, Maritime Policy, or Logistics at Plymouth or other leading universities. This pathway allows you to deepen your research expertise, contribute to academic knowledge, and prepare for careers in academia, policy-making, or advanced consultancy.