The minor Sustainable Maritime Operations focuses on the sustainable development of offshore, dredging, and hydraulic engineering activities within the maritime sector. In this minor, you will deepen and broaden your knowledge of maritime operations from a nautical, technical, or hydrographic perspective. Sustainability, innovation, and the energy transition at sea are key themes throughout the program.
The offshore and dredging industries play a crucial role in the development of sustainable energy infrastructure, coastal protection, and maritime accessibility. Due to technological advancements, stricter environmental regulations, and the transition to sustainable energy, there is a growing demand for well-educated maritime professionals who are capable of designing, executing, and managing these complex operations. This minor prepares you for that role.

Minor content 

Within this minor, you will gain insight into all aspects of maritime operations. You will work on practice-oriented case studies, attend lectures and practical sessions, and carry out an independent research project.

Structure of the minor

The minor comprises 30 ECTS. You will take Project Management & Thesis (10 ECTS) and select two of the four modules below (10 ECTS each), depending on your study track: nautical, hydrographic, or technical.

Nautical
• Dredge Operations (Nautical)
• Dynamic Positioning and Offshore Operations
• Sustainable Use of Oceans and Seas – Operations

Hydrographic
• Dredge Operations (Hydrography)
• Subsea and Offshore Operations
• Sustainable Use of Oceans and Seas – Operations

Technical
• Power and Automation Systems
• Future Fuels and Energy Recovery Systems
• Sustainable Use of Oceans and Seas – Operations

The minor starts with an introductory period during the summer school, focusing on sustainability, offshore, and hydraulic engineering projects. You will work on a real-life case, attend guest lectures by industry experts, and select a research assignment that you will develop throughout the duration of the minor.

Target audience and recommended knowledge

The minor Sustainable Maritime Operations is primarily intended for Bachelor-level (HBO) students in Maritime Officer and Ocean Technology programmes. Students from other study programmes may contact the minor coordinator to discuss admission possibilities.

Examination

Assessment methods include:

• Written and oral examinations
• Practical sessions and simulator training
• Assignments and assessments
• A research project (Project Management & Thesis)