Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in Chartering Business

Feb 25
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for senior maritime professionals, researchers, and industry leaders who aim to generate original knowledge and strategic insight within the global chartering and shipping sector. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the third European cycle, the program represents the highest level of academic specialization in chartering business and maritime commercial research.

With a minimum duration of 18 months, the program provides academic flexibility, allowing candidates to extend their studies in line with the scope and depth of their research projects and professional engagements.

The structure consists of seven modules, combining rigorous research training with advanced sector-specific expertise:

Four research-focused modules dedicated to advanced research design, maritime economic modeling, quantitative freight market analysis, legal and contractual frameworks, risk modeling, research ethics, and academic publication standards.
Two general modules aimed at strengthening strategic leadership, international trade governance, global logistics systems, financial structuring, sustainability strategies, and innovation management within complex maritime environments.
One specialized module in Chartering Business addressing advanced ship chartering mechanisms, freight derivatives, tanker and dry bulk markets, maritime brokerage systems, shipping finance structures, regulatory compliance, and geopolitical influences on global trade routes.
In addition, the program includes a doctoral thesis and structured research activities, enabling candidates to produce original, publishable research that contributes to the advancement of chartering strategy, maritime economics, and international shipping governance.

This doctorate study program is intended for high-level executives, chartering managers, maritime consultants, port authorities, shipping financiers, policymakers, and academics who seek to influence global maritime trade through evidence-based research and strategic innovation.

Graduates are prepared to lead complex maritime operations, shape chartering strategies within multinational shipping corporations, advise governments and international trade bodies, and contribute to global research in maritime economics and logistics systems.