Course Description

The MSc Sustainable Maritime Operations programme consists of a stand-alone 60 credit research project module, which provides the opportunity to complete a full 180 credits at Level 7 for: 

  1. Predominantly employed individuals working in the maritime industry, who have studied up to PGDip level to date.
  2. Students wishing to apply using general credit from other PGDip or full MSc programmes at other institutions.

During the programme, students will have the opportunity to undertake advanced research methods training, project planning, data management and statistics; and carry out independent research as part of the MSc Project. 

Key Programme Information

  • Degree MSc Sustainable Maritime Operations
  • Language English
  • Awarding Body University of Plymouth
  • Start January, May and September Next start date is 26th January 2026
  • Cost £7,200
  • Duration 12 Months
  • Apply now

How To Apply

  • 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:  

  • Postgraduate Diploma or equivalent, in a related subject area 
  • Combination of higher education and demonstrable relevant work experience, evidenced via RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) 

And 

  • English language GCSE Grade C or above, or international equivalent 

There are multiple pathways onto the programme, and our Admissions Team is here to help. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, get in touch – we’ll be happy to discuss your experience and explore the best route for you. admissions@mla.ac.uk

Coursework Submissions

Peer Review Forum TaskWeeks 4-6 (S)
Annotated BibliographyWeek 7 (F)
Ethical ApprovalWeek 10 (F)
Project ProposalWeek 10 (S)
DissertationWeek 49 (S)
PresentationWeeks 50-52 (S)
(S) Summative (F) Formative

Suggested Pre-Reading List

Bell, J. and Water, S. (2018). Doing Your Research Project: a Guide for First-Time Researchers (7th Ed.)   McGraw Hill. Maidenhead.

Creswell, J.W. and Creswell, J.D. (2018). Research Design. Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods Approaches. (5th Ed.) Sage. London.

Denscombe, M. (2021). The Good Research Guide. (7th Ed.). Open University Press. London.

MLA College and the University of Plymouth use Harvard style referencing and it is advisable to pre-study on the importance of referencing on all academic coursework and how to do it, which is available here.

University Degrees validated by the University of Plymouth

Graduate Testimonials

Jing Chen
Jing Chen
MBA Entrepreneurship & Innovation

I think the support from the school, from the tutor, are very useful for you to continue work and also for doing further study.

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