Course Description

The BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations at MLA College is designed for maritime professionals who want to gain a full bachelor’s degree to develop their careers, including students upgrading from a Foundation degree or equivalent qualification.

This BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations programme suits professionals with experience at sea and those currently working in the maritime industry, looking to progress their careers in marine and maritime business and management through further academic study.

Delivered through a flexible distance learning model, the programme gives you the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree online around your existing career and commitments. Core areas of study include:

  • Maritime operations and management.
  • MetOcean processes and their operational impacts.
  • Maritime regulation and governance.
  • Sustainable development principles applied to the maritime industry.

These modules give you a broad understanding of the challenges and current affairs shaping the modern maritime sector, along with the skills to gather, analyse, evaluate and interpret data relevant to sustainable maritime operations. On completion, you can progress to the six-month Honours Project and graduate with the BSc (Hons) Sustainable Maritime Operations.

Welcome to the Programme

The BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations degree is built for marine professionals who want formal academic recognition for their maritime experience while developing the analytical and operational skills the industry now expects. Whether you are building on prior qualifications or returning to education after time at sea, the programme at MLA College connects established maritime knowledge with sustainability principles and data-led decision-making. The result is a qualification that reflects both your experience and the future direction of the maritime industry.

Why this Programme

As sustainability becomes central to maritime operations and governance, employers are looking for professionals who can apply that knowledge to practice. The BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations at MLA College helps you build that capability while staying connected to your career at sea or ashore. Our programme can help you:

  • Build on prior maritime qualifications and work experience toward a recognised BSc qualification.
  • Apply sustainability principles directly to maritime operations, regulation and governance.
  • Strengthen your ability to gather, analyse and interpret operational and environmental data.
  • Develop a working understanding of MetOcean processes and their impact on maritime activity.
  • Create a clear progression route to the BSc (Hons)through the Honours Project, an additional six-month independent project where you apply your skills to a real maritime challenge.

Key Programme Information

  • Degree BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations
  • Language English
  • Awarding Body University of Plymouth
  • Start January, May or September Next start date is 28th September 2026
  • Cost £8,300
  • Duration 12 months
  • Apply now

Programme Modules

Click on a module for more information.

Learning and Delivery

Studying for a maritime degree while working at sea or in a demanding shore-based role requires flexibility. Our Total Learning Package (TLP) supports distance education that fits around your existing commitments, rather than requiring you to step away from your career. With MLA College, you can:

  • Continue working while completing your bachelor’s degree.
  • Study from any location, including offshore and project-based environments.
  • Apply your learning directly to live maritime operations and challenges.
  • Connect with a global community of maritime professionals and tutors.
  • Receive structured academic support throughout your studies.

How To Apply

As a part of your application, you will be required to upload the following:

  • A copy of your CV
  • A suitable English language certificate, for example an IELTS. A full list of certificates accepted can be found here. (For International students only)
  • Copies of academic certificates and/or transcripts
  • A copy of your passport (photo page only)
  • A 200-300 word personal statement explaining your motivation for wanting to join this programme. You may find our Guidance document helpful.

Entry Requirements

Typically, eligible candidates will have one of the following:  

  • Higher National Diploma (HND) or a Foundation Degree (FdSc) in a relevant subject  
  • Relevant work experience alongside professional qualifications (e.g., OOW/EOOW Certificate of Competency) 

And  

  • GCSE English Grade C or above, or international equivalent 

In some circumstances it may be necessary for you to undertake our 8-week Sustainable Maritime Operations Access Course (SMO101) in order to meet the entry requirements. 

There are multiple pathways into the programme, and our Admissions Team is here to help. If you are unsure about your eligibility, get in touch at admissions@mla.ac.uk. We will be happy to discuss your experience and explore the best route for you.

University Degrees validated by the University of Plymouth

Graduate Testimonials

Timothy Adeyemo
Timothy Adeyemo
BSc (Hons) Sustainable Maritime Operations

MLA College provided me with far more than a qualification, it provided the knowledge, confidence and professional foundation that has supported my continued growth within the maritime industry. The flexibility of the programme, combined with its strong industry relevance, allowed me to advance my education while maintaining a demanding professional career.

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