The shipping forecast: careers in the maritime industry

Recently, I had a series of conversations with students about a range of degree courses, which ultimately revealed a shared interest in working in the maritime industry. This sparked my curiosity and encouraged me to explore the sector and its opportunities in more depth.

The maritime industry – and why it matters

The maritime industry is an extensive global system that supports shipping, ports, logistics, marine services, offshore energy, fisheries and more. It plays a key role in international trade, with more than 80 per cent of world trade by volume transported by sea. The maritime industry is therefore an essential component of the global economy.

Because ships carry imports and exports across and between continents, the maritime industry supports millions of jobs worldwide. These range from engineers, logisticians, ocean scientists and offshore energy specialists to policymakers and legal advisers – to name only a few. Students can explore both careers at sea and shore-based roles to better understand the breadth and scope of this industry.

What skills are maritime employers looking for?

Students considering a career in the maritime sector should be aware of the skills required in this fast-changing industry. Across many maritime careers, the following competencies are increasingly valued:

• Digital and data skills
• Teamwork and analytical problem-solving
• Sustainability knowledge
• Curiosity and adaptability
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Legal and regulatory literacy (particularly for legal and compliance roles) and knowledge of international trade practices
• Technical proficiency (especially for engineering or navigation roles)

To gain an early advantage, students should seek internships with shipping companies, ports or maritime law firms. These opportunities provide practical experience, insight into professional training requirements and a chance to begin building an international professional network.

Choosing a degree course: some points to consider

If students are strongly focused on a maritime career, they may want to consider studying in countries that are global leaders in this sector, such as China, Greece, Japan, the US or Denmark.

Whichever country they choose, students can explore universities located in cities with strong maritime connections. In the UK, for example, key maritime hubs include Portsmouth, Southampton, Plymouth, Liverpool, Newcastle and Aberdeen.

An important question is whether students should choose a specialised maritime degree from the outset or pursue a broader subject that allows them to specialise later at master’s level – for example, whether to start with maritime business or business. There is no right or wrong answer to this question – it ultimately comes down to the principle of best fit, with students reflecting on their interests, strengths and long-term goals. However, a broader undergraduate degree can provide greater flexibility if career interests evolve.

University courses and training pathways

Below are some of the more specialised academic pathways that prepare students for careers in the maritime sector.

1. Undergraduate degrees

Maritime studies or shipping management: focuses on shipping operations, economics, logistics and business principles. Prepares students for managerial and administrative roles in maritime companies.

Maritime law and business: combines legal principles with commercial and business studies, in a maritime context. Graduates can pursue roles in the legal departments of shipping firms, insurance companies or port authorities.

Nautical science: focuses on ship navigation, maritime safety and operational procedures. Ideal for students aiming to work at sea as officers or captains.

Naval architecture: this is an engineering discipline, focused on the design, construction, operation and maintenance of marine vessels and structures, including ships, submarines and offshore platforms. It combines principles from mechanical, structural and electrical engineering to ensure vessels are safe, stable and seaworthy.

Marine engineering: this discipline is concerned with designing, building, operating and maintaining machinery and systems for ships, submarines, oil rigs and other offshore structures. It integrates mechanical, electrical and computer engineering to manage propulsion, power generation and auxiliary systems, such as steering, cargo handling and climate control.

Marine engineers and naval architects may also work on offshore projects, such as oil rigs and wind turbines, as well as coastal structures, such as ports and seawalls.

2. Postgraduate and specialist programme options

LLM in maritime law: this is a dedicated postgraduate degree focusing on the legal frameworks that govern international shipping, marine insurance, ship finance, environmental regulation and dispute resolution. Courses are offered internationally, and can lead to legal advisory or specialist roles in shipping companies, law firms or international organisations.

LLM in maritime law and shipping business: combines legal knowledge with business and trade principles relevant to the maritime sector, making it useful for careers that intersect law, management and commercial functions.

LLM in international trade and maritime law: this degree often includes placements or professional experience. It prepares students for legal practice in global trade and shipping law.

MSc in international shipping and logistics: this is a specialised postgraduate programme designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the maritime industry, global supply chains and the strategic management of international trade. The programme focuses on the commercial, economic, legal and operational aspects of transporting goods by sea. It prepares graduates for mid- to senior-level management positions in the global shipping and logistics sectors.

3. Executive and short courses in shipping law

Shorter specialist programmes allow professionals and students to develop focused knowledge in areas such as shipping contracts, liability, insurance documentation and international conventions.

The maritime industry is a global, diverse and high-value economic sector, which is essential to trade, logistics and transportation. For students, choosing a university course that aligns with their interests and career ambitions – whether maritime law, logistics management, nautical science or engineering – can open the door to exciting and rewarding global opportunities.