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 Safety Policies and Regulations

Feb 25
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a fully research-based academic pathway designed for senior maritime regulators, policy architects, safety auditors, and academic researchers seeking to advance global standards in maritime safety 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, high-level research that strengthens regulatory systems, enhances compliance mechanisms, and supports evidence-based maritime safety reforms worldwide.

With a minimum duration of 18 months and flexible extension options, the program accommodates experienced professionals who aim to integrate advanced academic research with leadership roles in maritime administrations, international organizations, and regulatory bodies.

The academic structure consists of seven comprehensive modules, including:

Four advanced research modules focusing on doctoral-level research design, regulatory impact analysis, quantitative and qualitative methodologies, maritime risk modeling, policy evaluation frameworks, and scholarly publication strategies.
Two general modules addressing global governance systems, institutional accountability, sustainability and environmental compliance, crisis management structures, and international trade dynamics affecting maritime safety.
One specialized module in Maritime Safety Policies and Regulations, covering international maritime safety conventions, flag state and port state control systems, accident investigation mechanisms, safety management systems (SMS), environmental protection frameworks, maritime labor standards, emergency response coordination, cybersecurity in maritime safety, and regulatory adaptation to digital and autonomous shipping technologies.

The program culminates in rigorous thesis and research activities, enabling candidates to investigate critical contemporary issues such as harmonization of international safety standards, maritime accident prevention strategies, regulatory enforcement effectiveness, climate-related compliance reforms, integration of maritime security and safety governance, and modernization of global maritime oversight systems.

This doctorate study program prepares graduates to serve as senior policy advisors, maritime safety strategists, regulatory reform specialists, academic scholars, and international consultants within maritime authorities, port administrations, shipping corporations, international maritime organizations, and governmental regulatory agencies. Through its research-intensive design, the program empowers candidates to shape the future of maritime safety governance through innovative, data-driven, and policy-oriented scholarship.