Maritime Operations Top Up Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

The BSc (Honours) Maritime Operations is a Level 6 top-up degree, awarded by Lancaster University, designed for qualified maritime professionals who wish to develop advanced technical, analytical, and operational capabilities. The programme builds on the knowledge and skills you gained through your Level 5 qualification and professional experience, extending these into areas of growing importance to the maritime sector: digital technologies, sustainability, project delivery, emerging shipping systems, and independent research.

You will study five mandatory modules across a single academic year. Maritime Project Delivery develops your ability to plan and evaluate complex maritime initiatives. Digital Ship Intelligence focuses on data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital systems used in vessel and fleet operations. Maritime Sustainability addresses decarbonisation, alternative fuels, and environmental regulation. Future Shipping Technologies examines autonomous systems, emerging propulsion technologies, and the governance frameworks surrounding them. The Dissertation, which spans all three terms, requires you to undertake an independent research investigation into a contemporary maritime challenge of your choosing.

The programme is delivered through a blended learning model. Term 1 (up to 14 weeks) is campus-based at Fleetwood Nautical Campus, where you will attend lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions across all five modules. This is an intensive period of face-to-face learning that gives you direct access to specialist simulation facilities, industry standard software, and the academic team, whilst building the peer relationships that support you throughout the year. During Term 1, you will also have access to evening academic clinics running Monday to Thursday for additional one-to-one academic support.

Terms 2 and 3 are delivered remotely, enabling you to continue studying alongside professional and personal commitments. Synchronous online sessions via Microsoft Teams maintain interactive teaching and peer discussion, whilst asynchronous materials on the Canvas Virtual Learning Environment, including recorded lectures, discussion forums, and digital resources, allow you to study flexibly. Dissertation supervision continues through regular video consultations with your allocated supervisor.

Throughout the programme, you are supported through the College's Partners for Success (P4S) framework. You will be allocated a Progress Tutor who monitors your academic progress, helps you set targets, and provides guidance at key points in your studies. During Term 1, progress tutorials take place on campus; during Terms 2 and 3, these continue remotely via Microsoft Teams. Higher Education Learning Mentors (HELMs) provide additional academic support, including help with study skills, time management, and accessing learning resources. The Student Support, Wellbeing and Inclusion (SSWI) team is available for students who may benefit from additional personal or learning support, including those with a Disabled Students' Allowance, an Education Health and Care Plan, or other specific needs. Progress Coaches and the Careers Team support career planning and employability throughout the programme. These support services operate across all three terms, ensuring that the transition from campus based to remote study does not mean a reduction in the support available to you.

The programme does not lead to a Certificate of Competency. It is an academic qualification that prepares you for progression into senior operational, technical, and strategic roles within the maritime sector, as well as for further study at postgraduate level or towards professional chartership.