Programme at a Glance

Why Choose the ITL Programme?

A World Maritime University Master’s Degree

The programme is a specialised MSc programme in Maritime Affairs delivered by World Maritime University in collaboration with Shanghai Maritime University. Successful graduates are awarded the Master of Science in Maritime Affairs by World Maritime University.

International Perspective, Shanghai Advantage

The programme is delivered in Shanghai, one of the world’s leading shipping centres and a major hub for international trade, ports and logistics. Students study in an international environment and gain first-hand exposure to the maritime and logistics industry.

A Strong International Community

Since its establishment in 2005, the programme has produced more than 600 graduates from over 20 countries and regions, building a growing international network of maritime and logistics professionals.

International Faculty and Industry-Oriented Learning

The programme is taught in English by faculty from WMU and SMU and combines academic learning with practical exposure. Its teaching structure integrates classroom learning, field studies and an overseas study trip.

Preparing Professionals for a Changing Maritime Industry

The programme provides students with knowledge and skills relevant to the rapidly evolving maritime and logistics sectors, including shipping management, maritime logistics, supply chains, digital transformation, finance, risk management and investment decision-making.

Programme Description

The programme is a full-time, English-taught programme designed for professionals and graduates seeking advanced knowledge in international transport, shipping and logistics.

Delivered in Shanghai, the programme brings together students from China and other countries and regions in an international learning environment. Through interaction with faculty, classmates and industry, students have opportunities to develop both academic knowledge and professional networks.

The programme is designed to combine academic foundations with practical and international perspectives. Classroom learning is complemented by field studies and an overseas study trip, enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world maritime and logistics practices.

Programme Structure

The programme is intensive and comprises 80 degree credits, delivered over three terms.

Term 1 – Foundation Studies

The Foundation Studies provide a comprehensive grounding in maritime affairs, including maritime policy and the IMO system for maritime governance, together with an introduction to the environmental, economic and managerial aspects of the ocean.

Term 2 – Specialisation Studies

The Specialisation Studies focus on key areas of international transport, shipping and logistics. Taught subjects include:

• Managerial Accounting and Decision Making

• Shipping Financeand Risk Management

• Fleet Management and Decarbonization

• Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Management

• Globalisation and Digital Transformation of Maritime Transport

Terms 1 and 2 are delivered through intensive classroom-based study in Shanghai from May to December.

Term 3 – Dissertation

All students are required to complete a dissertation. The dissertation may address an issue related to the student’s professional experience or a current or emerging issue in the maritime sector.

The dissertation topic and proposal are subject to University approval and may involve original research or an analysis based on secondary sources.

The dissertation period in Term 3 may be completed remotely.

Degree Conferred

The programme is taught entirely in English by faculty from WMU and SMU. The entry requirements, grading system and quality assurance processes follow those of World Maritime University.

Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will receive the:

Master of Science in Maritime Affairs

from World Maritime University, with the certificate signed by the Chancellor and President of WMU.

The overseas degree is eligible for academic degree and education credential verification by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, in accordance with the relevant Chinese regulations and procedures.

Admission Requirements

The Admissions Board will consider applicants who meet the programme’s general entrance requirements.

Applicants should normally meetone of the following academic or professional qualifications:

Academic Qualification

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, together with a full academic transcript;

or

Professional Qualification

• The highest grade Certificate of Competency for unrestricted service as a Master Mariner or Chief Engineer.

English Language Requirements

All applicants are required to submit an internationally recognised English language proficiency test.

The following scores are accepted:

• IELTS: 6.0

• TOEFL: 80

• Duolingo English Test: 110

Other English language qualifications may be considered by the Admissions Board under exceptional circumstances. Applicants who wish to submit an alternative qualification should consult the Programme Office in advance.

Applicants who have passed a GCE O-Level or an equivalent examination (such as WAEC or CXC) should also provide a copy of their examination results for evaluation by the Admissions Board.

Application

Application Period

1 September 2026 – 31 March 2027

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications and supporting documents before the deadline.

Application Procedure

Applicants should submit the required application documents to the Programme Office. Following an initial review and approval of the submitted materials, shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online interview.

Required Application Documents

- Completed Application Form

- Copy of Passport or Identity Card

- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate or Student Status Certificate, together with full academic transcripts

- Master Mariner or Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency, where applicable

- English Language Proficiency Test Record – IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo

- Curriculum Vitae (CV)

- Passport-size ID Photograph with a white background

- Application Letter or Personal Statement

- At least two Letters of Recommendation

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the ITL programme are equipped to pursue professional careers across the international maritime, shipping and logistics sectors.

Career opportunities may include positions in:

- Shipping and ship management companies

- Ports and terminal operations

- Maritime and logistics enterprises

- Supply chain management

- Maritime administration and government agencies

- Maritime research and education

- International maritime organisations

- Other maritime-related professional and management fields

Over the years, graduates of the programme have taken up professional roles in shipping, logistics and related sectors both in China and internationally.

The programme’s combination of international academic training, maritime expertise and practical industry perspectives provides graduates with a strong foundation for developing their professional careers in a changing global maritime environment.

Tuition Fee ( inclu. teaching materials)

CNY 120,000 or equivalent currency

The tuition fee covers the entire programme period.

Accommodation and living expenses are not included.

Location

Lingang Campus, Shanghai Maritime University

No.1550 Haigang Avenue, Pudong New District, Shanghai

Contact & Application

Application Period: 1 September 2026 – 31 March 2027

Application Contact:
Daisy Zhang
jiezhang@shmtu.edu.cn
+86-21-58605519

Application Form:
ITL Programme Application Form.doc

Programme Website:
(PROGRAMME) MSc in Maritime Affairs (Shanghai)