World Maritime University
Malmö, Sweden • Founded 1983 • World Rank #2974
Overview
Founded 1983, within the framework of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations.
Founded in 1983, the University is a global centre of excellence recognized by the IMO and the United Nations General Assembly, and plays a significant role in maritime and ocean education, research, capacity-building and economic development while promoting the roles of women in the maritime and ocean sectors. The University is located in Malmö (Sweden) but is not part of the Swedish education system
Location & Contact
Mailing address, phone, email, and social channels for World Maritime University are gathered below for quick reference. Most enquiries route through the admissions team unless noted otherwise.
Academic Details
These figures give a quick read on World Maritime University's scale, staffing levels, and academic standing. Use them to ground decisions about programme fit and institutional capacity.
Degrees
MSc in Maritime Affairs specializations also offered in Dalian and Shanghai, China in cooperation with Dalian Maritime University and Shanghai Maritime University respectively. 14-month Standard MSc programme in Maritime Affairs. Also MPhil (International Maritime Law and Ocean Policy), Postgraduate diplomas (distance learning) and customized executive education
Master's 7 programs
Master's programmes develop advanced specialised expertise, suited to senior industry positions and applied research.
- Environmental Studies
- Management
- Marine Science and Oceanography
- Marine Transport
- Maritime Law
- Safety Engineering
- Transport Management
Other 4 programs
- Environmental Studies
- Marine Engineering
- Marine Science and Oceanography
- Maritime Law
Faculties & Divisions
Below: World Maritime University's faculties, divisions, and the subject specialisms each is known for. Specialism patterns often shape both teaching style and the research opportunities available to students.
Engineering (Area) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Marine Engineering
- Naval Architecture
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Law (Area) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Maritime Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Natural Sciences (Area) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Coastal Studies
- Marine Science and Oceanography
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Social Sciences (Area) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Economics
- International Economics
- International Relations and Diplomacy
- International Studies
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Transport and Communications (Area) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Marine Transport
- Nautical Science
- Transport Economics
- Transport Management
Common Career Paths
- Journalist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Content Strategist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Welfare and Protective Services (Area) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Studies
Programs Offered
Below: World Maritime University's programme list by level. Programme intakes vary — some offer multiple entry points per year (Sep, Jan, May), others a single annual intake.
Master's Degree
10 programmes
World Maritime University provides 10 programmes at master's level for graduates who want to specialise further or strengthen their standing for doctoral applications.
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Maritime Education & Training 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Maritime Energy Management 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Maritime Law & Policy 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Maritime Safety & Environmental Administration 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Ocean Sustainability, Governance & Management 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Port Management 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Malmö) - Shipping Management & Logistics 14 months 60 credits On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Shanghai) - International Transport and Logistics 15 months On-campus
MSc in Maritime Affairs (Dalian) - Maritime Safety and Environmental Management 15 months On-campus
MPhil in International Maritime Law and Ocean Policy 12 months On-campus
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Doctorate
1 programme
World Maritime University lists 1 programme awarding a doctorate — the apex qualification for those pursuing research leadership or an academic career.
PhD in Maritime Affairs 48 months 240 credits On-campus
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Associate, Certificate & Other Qualifications
4 programmes
These 4 programmes cover World Maritime University's associate, certificate, diploma, and foundation options — qualifications valued for fast, targeted, or pathway-oriented study.
PGD in Marine Insurance Law & Practice 9 months On-campus
PGD in Maritime Energy 11 months On-campus
LLM/PGD in International Maritime Law 9 months On-campus
PGD in Executive Maritime Management 11 months On-campus
No programmes match your filter in this level.
How to apply to World Maritime University
Below is a five-step path through the application process at World Maritime University, useful for first-time applicants and international students.
- 1 Research programmes at World Maritime University
World Maritime University's catalogue includes 15 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
- 2 Review admissions criteria
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for World Maritime University's admissions process.
- 3 Gather supporting documents
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
- 4 Lodge your application
Submit your completed application through World Maritime University's official website at www.wmu.se. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
- 5 Confirm receipt and track progress
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at 46 40 35 63 00. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about World Maritime University
Frequently asked questions about World Maritime University, covering the institutional basics most prospective applicants want to confirm first.
When was World Maritime University founded?
World Maritime University was established in 1983 (approximately 43 years ago).
In which city is World Maritime University?
World Maritime University is based in Malmö, Sweden.
What is World Maritime University's control type?
World Maritime University is a private institution.
What is World Maritime University's ranking?
World Maritime University holds rank #2974 globally and #27 in Sweden.
What programmes are available at World Maritime University?
World Maritime University delivers master's programmes across its academic units.
Is World Maritime University officially recognised?
World Maritime University is accredited by Sweden Ministry of Education, ZEvA (Zentrale Evaluations - und Akkreditierungsagentur Hannover/Central Evaluation and Accreditation Agency Hanover, Germany).
Where can I learn more about World Maritime University?
You can find World Maritime University online at www.wmu.se.
Top-Ranked Universities in Sweden
The leading universities in Sweden are listed below — useful for sizing World Maritime University against the country's top tier. Top-tier institutions in Sweden typically set admissions standards that downstream universities track.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Industry placements and co-op programmes around World Maritime University draw on the same regional employer base. The nearby universities listed below often compete for similar internship slots.
Universities Often Compared with World Maritime University
Admissions advisor commonalities exist within peer tiers — advisors recommending World Maritime University often recommend the universities below alongside it as natural cross-applications.
