MSc in Maritime Affairs - Ocean Sustainability, Governance & Management

WMU’s MSc programme emphasizes the practical application of expertise. It offers both an overview of the complex, inter-related maritime and ocean fields, as well as the opportunity to specialize. The programme is designed to respond directly to the real needs of the maritime industry, and to equip graduates with the skills needed today and in the future. It is academically challenging and professionally oriented, and is designed for ambitious, mid-career maritime professionals. It provides a particularly strong foundation for those intending to move into either a national or an international career.

WMU is active in research that is influencing the development of the maritime industry. From the effects of climate change to maritime safety & security, from piracy to port state control, from environmental to technological developments impacting the industry, as well as on ocean-related matters, WMU’s faculty are involved in research that also adds significant value to the content of the MSc programme, keeping it up to date and relevant.

This specialization has been designed for those who work in the maritime and ocean sectors and offers an ecosystem-based approach to the governance and management of the interconnected global ocean and social-ecological systems. Students learn about ocean processes, ecosystem functions and marine resources, and how society depends on, interacts with and impacts the health and sustainability of the ocean and coasts. Students gain a sound understanding of ecosystem based management, international law of the sea and ocean governance structures, including also ocean-related UN institutions and systems. Key goals for sustainable ocean governance and responsible ocean business practice are also explored. The specialization is designed to deliver the knowledge required to incorporate the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development into the domestic ocean governance policies of graduates’ home countries, and seeks to develop the transdisciplinary skills necessary for the fulfillment of the responsibilities graduates will assume.