Anchor your ambition.
Chart your course to maritime leadership.
Europe's premier one-year, multidisciplinary master's in maritime transport, shipping, port management, logistics and maritime law. Taught in English, jointly by Ghent University and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Three pillars, one maritime perspective
A structure unique in the international academic landscape, combining the technical, economic and legal dimensions of the maritime world. Hover or tap a pillar to see the courses
Technical / General +
Ship technology, port infrastructure, maritime operations and contemporary port challenges.
Covers the typical technical infrastructure and facilities in ports, the scientific and technical principles that govern ships, and the contemporary spatial, economic and political problems ports face.
See full course details →Economic / Logistic +
Maritime economics, supply chain management and the specific dynamics of port logistics.
Familiarises students with the unique economic character of maritime transport, a global phenomenon with very specific dynamics, and the principles governing port authorities, shipping companies and transport firms.
See full course details →Legal +
Maritime law, the law of the sea and international transport regulations, in depth.
Aims at an in-depth knowledge of the legal aspects of maritime transport, with a strong European and international dimension, from the law of the sea to transport and insurance law.
See full course details →Built for graduates & professionals ready to lead
The Master of Science in Maritime Science is an inter-university postgraduate programme for students and professionals with a strong interest in the maritime sector. It is open to applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who already hold a master's degree or equivalent.
First launched in 1984 with the University of Antwerp as a Dutch-language programme, it became an English-taught master jointly organised with the Vrije Universiteit Brussel in 2015, while remaining rooted in Ghent University's Maritime Institute.
Its multidisciplinary structure equips graduates with the advanced analytical, technical, legal and managerial skills required for leadership roles in today's rapidly evolving maritime world.
Explore the full programme →
Twelve reasons students pick this master's
Hover or tap a card to flip it.
Where this master can take you
Do you want to become the next CEO, director of maritime operations, sustainability officer, legal expert or maritime consultant of one of the world's leading shipowners, terminal operators or port authorities? With this study programme under your belt, anything is possible!
Our alumni work at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, DEME Offshore, the European Commission, NATO, Holland America Line, Loyens & Loeff, Elia and many more.
Field trips, company visits & study trips
Multi-day study trips to London and Rotterdam, plus a full calendar of company and port visits. Every trip is part of the curriculum and covered by the tuition fee.
The sea connects the world, Maritime Science connects the dots.Patrick De Baets, professor
Ready to set your course?
Applications for the 2026-27 academic year open in October. We keep the class deliberately small and personal, so an early application is the best way to secure your place.
