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, Shipping and Logistics Leadership

24 hours ago
3 min read

The Doctorate in Maritime, Shipping and Logistics Leadership is a 100% research-based study program designed for professionals, executives, industry specialists, and academically motivated practitioners who want to explore advanced issues in global transport systems, maritime operations, shipping strategy, and logistics leadership. This doctorate study program is intended for individuals seeking a deeper and more analytical understanding of how maritime and logistics sectors operate within an increasingly interconnected international economy.

With its international focus, the program examines the strategic, operational, and economic dimensions of maritime activity and global logistics. It is particularly relevant for those interested in how ports, shipping networks, supply chains, transport systems, and international trade structures are shaped by leadership decisions, policy environments, risk conditions, technological development, and global market dynamics. The field combines advanced research with sector-specific insight, allowing participants to investigate real challenges and emerging opportunities in one of the world’s most essential industries.

This doctorate study program is academically positioned at a level equal to ISCED / EQF Level 8 and is comparable to the third cycle of European higher education. ISCED, the International Standard Classification of Education, is a global framework used to classify and compare education levels across countries. EQF, the European Qualifications Framework, is a European reference system that helps explain qualifications and learning achievement levels. Level 8 represents the most advanced academic stage, with emphasis on highly specialized knowledge, original thinking, and advanced research competence.

The program is structured across 7 modules, offering a rigorous and balanced framework for advanced study. It includes 4 research-related modules that help learners strengthen their abilities in research design, methodology, literature review, critical analysis, and academic writing. In addition, the program includes 2 general modules that support broader academic and professional development, as well as 1 specialized module focused specifically on maritime, shipping, and logistics leadership. Alongside these modules, participants complete thesis and research activities, enabling them to investigate important sector-related questions with depth, independence, and strategic perspective.

The duration of the program is 18 months or more, providing flexibility for participants who require additional time to progress according to their professional commitments and research goals. While the program has a minimum duration, learners also benefit from the flexibility to extend their study period when needed. This structure is especially suitable for working professionals who wish to pursue advanced academic work while remaining active in industry, management, consulting, or international operations.

A key strength of this doctorate study program is its focus on leadership in a field that is central to international commerce and economic continuity. Research may address topics such as maritime governance, shipping strategy, logistics innovation, port leadership, transport resilience, international supply chain management, regulatory frameworks, sustainability in shipping, risk management, or global trade flows. Through its research-based design, the program encourages participants to produce academically meaningful work that also reflects the realities and complexities of modern maritime and logistics environments.

Overall, the Doctorate in Maritime, Shipping and Logistics Leadership is a serious, research-driven, and internationally oriented study program for advanced learners who want to contribute intellectually and strategically to the future of maritime and logistics sectors. It supports the development of analytical depth, independent research capability, and leadership insight within a field of growing global importance.