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 Maritime Law

Feb 25
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a fully research-based academic pathway designed for senior legal professionals, maritime policy experts, scholars, and regulatory leaders seeking to advance high-level expertise in international maritime law and global shipping governance. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the 3rd European cycle, the program is dedicated to producing original, impactful research that contributes to the evolution of maritime legal systems and international regulatory frameworks.

With a minimum duration of 18 months and flexible extension options, the program supports experienced candidates who aim to integrate advanced legal research with professional practice in maritime law, international trade, marine insurance, arbitration, and regulatory compliance.

The academic framework consists of seven structured modules, including:

Four advanced research modules focused on doctoral-level legal research design, comparative maritime law methodologies, international case analysis, legislative interpretation, policy evaluation, and academic publication strategies.
Two general modules addressing global trade systems, regulatory governance, risk management, environmental compliance, and the intersection of maritime operations with international commercial law.
One specialized module in Maritime Law, covering international maritime conventions and treaties, admiralty law, carriage of goods by sea, marine insurance law, ship registration and flag state jurisdiction, maritime dispute resolution and arbitration, port state control, environmental maritime regulations, sanctions regimes, and emerging legal challenges related to digital shipping and autonomous vessels.

The program culminates in rigorous thesis and research activities, enabling candidates to examine contemporary legal issues such as maritime boundary disputes, climate-related regulatory reforms, shipping sanctions and compliance regimes, piracy and maritime security law, arbitration in international shipping contracts, and the governance of emerging maritime technologies.

This doctorate study program prepares graduates to serve as maritime law scholars, senior legal advisors, policy architects, arbitration specialists, regulatory consultants, and academic leaders within international law firms, shipping corporations, port authorities, insurance institutions, governmental agencies, and global maritime organizations. Through its research-intensive structure, the program empowers candidates to shape the future of maritime legal governance through evidence-based scholarship and strategic legal innovation.