In today’s globalised world, maritime studies are gaining importance, as countries like Bangladesh rely on their coastal regions and the sea for trade and commerce. Maritime studies have therefore become a sought-after field with exciting career paths open to those interested in anything to do with shipping, marine biology, maritime law, oceanography or Naval Architecture.
Maritime studies include a variety of academic disciplines that engage with seas, oceans, and industries that are tied to them. Trade to the Bay of Bengal is an important hub for the nation and major seaports like Chattogram and Mongla import and export.
Maritime studies in Bangladesh
To promote the sustainable development of its coastal and marine resources, in 2013 the government of Bangladesh took a bold step in that direction by establishing Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University (BSMRMU) under the direct supervision of the Bangladesh Navy, the 37th public university of the country. It is the first maritime university in Bangladesh, the 3rd maritime university in South Asia and the 12th maritime university in the world.
Undergraduate programmes include –
BSc (Honours) in Oceanography
It is a course which delves into the physical, chemical, biological and geological aspects of the ocean. Students learn about marine ecosystems, climate change, ocean resource management, and ocean technologies for research. The program trains students to solve ocean challenges on the global scale.
BSc in Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering (NAOE)
This course deals with ship and boat design, construction and maintenance as well as the design and construction of offshore structures. Students learn about advanced engineering principles, hydrodynamics, material science, and investigate the incorporation of sustainability into maritime engineering.
LLB (Honours) in Maritime Law
The students build up a comprehensive understanding of the national and international maritime laws, shipping laws, and shipping disputes. This program familiarizes them with legal practice within the maritime industry aspects such as shipping, piracy, and the environment.They can also practice law in national courts too.
BBA in Port Management and Logistics
This program prepares the students in the handling and administration of ports, supply chain and logistics. They learn about shipping business, commerce and measures on how to enhance port activities in a world economy.
BSc (Honours) in Marine Fisheries
People look at topics such as marine life, responsible fishing and methods of fish farming. The program encompasses aspects dealing with marine resources, fish and fisheries economics, and techniques of exploitation and conservation of sea resources.
And in postgraduate studies various programmes like Master in Port & Shipping Management, LLM Maritime Law, MBA in Maritime Business, MBA in Marine Tourism and Hospitality Management, MSc in Oceanography, MSc in Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering are offered to a new generation of maritime professionals.
Notable career opportunities in Maritime Studies
Graduates of maritime studies usually have a number of career prospects locally as well as internationally. They can go into shipping companies, port authorities, government agencies, marine insurance, maritime law firms and environmental organizations. Some potential career paths include:
- Marine Biologist/Oceanographer: Study marine ecosystems and work on conservation efforts.
- Shipping Manager: Overseeing operations at ports, keeping shipping logistics smooth.
- Maritime Lawyer: Laws of international shipping, cargo claims, marine insurance.
- Marine Engineer: The design and maintenance of ships, offshore structures and maritime technology.
- Port Authority Official: Feasibility study of activities at a port in Bangladesh as well as abroad. And many more.
Why choose Maritime Studies?
Maritime studies contain degrees that open up your opportunities to contribute to the development of sustainable resources in the ocean. If you are keen on environmental protection, legal frameworks, or maritime improvements in technology, then maritime studies is a great career path with global impact.
With Bangladesh growing in investment in the maritime future, the demand for professionals will certainly grow with it. If you fancy yourself being a part of the industry that delivers global trade and sustainable ocean practices, then maritime studies provide a promise of a rewarding career journey for students.