Maritime Operations - BSC Hons Degree (Top Up)
Course Code: MH1HE0009
Maritime & Nautical
Next course dates
| Start Date | Location | Duration / Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 Sep 2026 | Fleetwood Nautical Campus | 28 Weeks/ £7,700 | Apply |
| 5 Jan 2027 | Fleetwood Nautical Campus | 28 Weeks/ £7,700 | Apply |
| 27 Apr 2027 | Fleetwood Nautical Campus | 28 Weeks/ £7,700 | Apply |
| 7 Sep 2027 | Fleetwood Nautical Campus | 28 Weeks | Apply |
| 5 Jan 2028 | Fleetwood Nautical Campus | 28 Weeks | Apply |
| 26 Apr 2028 | Fleetwood Nautical Campus | 28 Weeks | Apply |
Not ready to book? Enquire here about our upcoming dates:
Course Overview
The BSc (Hons) Maritime Operations (Top-up) is a Level 6 honours degree designed for qualified maritime professionals seeking to advance into senior operational, technical, and strategic roles within the global maritime sector. Delivered in partnership with Lancaster University, the programme builds on prior Level 5 study and industry experience, extending knowledge into key areas shaping the future of maritime operations, including digital transformation, sustainability, project delivery, and emerging shipping technologies.
The programme is structured around five integrated modules: Maritime Project Delivery, Digital Ship Intelligence, Maritime Sustainability, Future Shipping Technologies, and an independent Dissertation. Together, these modules develop advanced capabilities in data-driven decision-making, regulatory awareness, technological evaluation, and evidence-based problem solving. The Dissertation enables students to investigate a contemporary maritime challenge relevant to their professional context, demonstrating critical thinking, research skills, and strategic insight.
Delivery follows a blended learning model designed to accommodate working professionals. An intensive campus based first term at Fleetwood Nautical Campus provides access to specialist facilities, simulation environments, and direct engagement with academic staff and peers. This is followed by flexible remote learning in Terms 2 and 3, supported by synchronous online sessions, recorded materials, and ongoing academic supervision. This structure allows students to balance study with professional commitments while applying learning directly to real-world maritime operations.
Throughout the programme, students develop a broad and interdisciplinary skillset aligned with industry needs, including digital fluency, sustainability awareness, project management, and leadership capability. The course prepares graduates for progression into roles such as Fleet Manager, Technical Superintendent, Operations Manager, or positions within ports, regulatory bodies, and emerging sectors such as offshore renewables and autonomous shipping.
This programme does not lead to a Certificate of Competency but provides a strong academic pathway for career progression, further postgraduate study, and professional recognition within the maritime industry.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should normally hold a relevant Level 5 qualification in a maritime-related discipline, such as a DipHE, HND (Advanced Diploma), or Foundation Degree in Nautical Science, Marine Engineering, or Electro-Technical Engineering. Equivalent international qualifications are considered on a case by case basis in line with UK ENIC guidance.
Applicants with Level 5 qualifications in related engineering disciplines may be considered where there is sufficient alignment with the programme content and relevant maritime or industry experience. In such cases, applicants may be required to attend an informal interview.
If applicants have not previously completed academic skills development at Level 5, they may be required to complete the Maritime Academic Literacies module prior to starting the programme.
International applicants whose first language is not English will normally be required to demonstrate English language proficiency, typically IELTS Academic 5.5 overall, with a minimum of 4.0 in each component, or an equivalent qualification.
Assessment Methods
The programme comprises five integrated modules designed to develop advanced knowledge and applied professional skills in maritime operations. These include Maritime Project Delivery, Digital Ship Intelligence, Maritime Sustainability, Future Shipping Technologies, and an extended Dissertation. Together, these modules address key areas such as project management, data driven decision making, environmental regulation, and emerging technologies shaping the maritime sector.
Assessment is designed to reflect real world professional practice and to support the development of analytical, technical, and communication skills. Rather than relying on traditional examinations, the programme uses a range of coursework based assessments, including applied projects, case studies, reports, and presentations. These enable students to demonstrate their ability to analyse complex scenarios, apply theoretical knowledge, and produce evidence based solutions to contemporary maritime challenges.
The Dissertation is a significant component of the programme, allowing students to undertake an independent research project on a topic relevant to their professional interests. This involves developing a research proposal, conducting a structured investigation, and presenting findings through a written dissertation and professional presentation. This element develops critical thinking, research capability, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Assessment throughout the programme is supported by formative activities, including draft submissions, peer discussions, and tutor feedback, helping students to refine their work and develop confidence in their academic and professional skills. Feedback is provided on all assessed work to support progression and improvement.
Overall, the module and assessment structure ensures alignment with industry expectations, enabling students to demonstrate both academic achievement and practical competence in maritime operations.
| Assessment | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 0% | 0% | 74% |
| Exam | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Practical | 0% | 0% | 0% |
Teaching and Learning Methods
The programme is delivered through a blended learning model designed to support both academic development and professional commitments. You will begin with an intensive campus based term at Fleetwood Nautical Campus, where you will engage in lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions. This provides opportunities for face to face interaction with academic staff, access to specialist facilities, and collaboration with peers.
In subsequent terms, learning transitions to a flexible online format. You will participate in scheduled live sessions using Microsoft Teams, enabling discussion, group work, and interaction with tutors and fellow students. Alongside this, you will access a range of recorded lectures, learning materials, and activities through the Canvas Virtual Learning Environment, allowing you to study at your own pace.
Learning activities are designed to be applied and industry focused, including case studies, problem-solving tasks, and research-based assignments. You will work both independently and collaboratively, developing critical thinking, analytical, and professional skills.
You will also receive ongoing academic support through tutorials, feedback on assessments, and access to study skills guidance. A dedicated dissertation project allows you to undertake independent research into a topic relevant to your professional interests, supported by regular supervision.
This combined approach ensures a flexible, engaging, and supportive learning experience, enabling you to balance study with your professional and personal commitments.
| Learning Method | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled (Hours) | 0 | 0 | 554 |
| Independent (Hours) | 0 | 0 | 1846 |
| Placement (Hours) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total (Hours) | 0 | 0 | 2400 |
Industry Placement and Field Trips
The programme does not include formal industry placements or structured field trips, as it is designed to support students who are typically already in employment or bring professional experience within the maritime sector. This allows learners to contextualise their studies within their own operational environments and apply learning directly to real world scenarios.
However, the programme is enriched through engagement with industry professionals and external expertise. Students benefit from a range of guest speakers, including practitioners from shipping companies, maritime organisations, and associated sectors. These sessions provide valuable insight into current industry practice, emerging technologies, regulatory developments, and career pathways.
In addition, students have access to external online lectures and webinars delivered by academics, industry specialists, and professional bodies. These contribute to a broader understanding of global maritime challenges, innovation, and best practice.
Together, these activities ensure that learning remains current, industry-informed, and professionally relevant, providing students with opportunities to engage with the wider maritime community and enhance their professional networks.
Other Costs and Equipment Needed
Students are expected to have access to a reliable laptop or computer capable of supporting online learning, research, and coursework submission. Internet connectivity suitable for video conferencing and accessing the Canvas Virtual Learning Environment is essential, particularly during the remote study phases.
During the campus based term, all specialist facilities, including simulation suites, software, and learning resources, are provided by the College. Throughout the programme, students have full access to digital library services, online databases, and academic support tools.
There are no mandatory additional costs associated with the programme beyond standard study expenses. Students may choose to purchase optional resources, such as textbooks or software, to support their learning, but these are not required.
What you will learn
At Level 6
| Module Title | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Dissertation | 40 | MH6MD0002 |
| Maritime Project Delivery | 20 | MH6MD0003 |
| Digital Ship Intelligence | 20 | MH6MD0004 |
| Maritime Sustainability | 20 | MH6MD0005 |
| Future Shipping Technologies | 20 | MH6MD0006 |
| Dissertation | 40 | MH6MD0007 |
| Maritime Project Delivery | 20 | MH6MD0008 |
| Digital Ship Intelligence | 20 | MH6MD0009 |
| Maritime Sustainability | 20 | MH6MD0010 |
| Future Shipping Technologies | 20 | MH6MD0011 |
Expert Tutors
All staff involved in the delivery of any courses within the College are approved to teach and/or assess the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering and/or assessing a given programme are appropriately qualified, with relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.
Regulation and Accreditation
Accrediting Institution: N/A
Awarding Body: D *
