Studies in the Sea-EU Alliance

The University of Gdańsk is a member of the international alliance of the European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), which brings together nine European coastal universities: the University of Algarve, the University of Brest, Nord University (Bodø), the University of Cádiz, Kiel University, the University of Malta, Parthenope University of Naples, the University of Split, and the University of Gdańsk. What these institutions share is their coastal character and strong ties to the maritime sector.
 

The Faculty of Economics at the University of Gdańsk, in cooperation with the University of Malta, the University of Split, the University of Algarve, and the University of Cádiz, has developed a joint study programme titled Master in Port Management and Logistics (MIPMAL). The aim of this programme is to educate highly qualified specialists for the maritime sector, particularly for ports and companies operating within or in cooperation with port infrastructure.

Programme Structure

The MIPMAL curriculum has been developed in cooperation with representatives of port authorities from SEA-EU countries, ensuring that it responds to the real needs of the industry. Each semester focuses on a different aspect of maritime logistics:

• Semester 1: Port Services and Operations (30 ECTS) – held at the University of Cádiz
• Semester 2: Port Economics and Logistics (30 ECTS) – also held at the University of Cádiz
• Semester 3: Port Law and Digitalisation (30 ECTS) – held at the University of Gdańsk
• Semester 4: Career-oriented or Research Track:
  • Career Track: Internship (20 ECTS) + Master’s Thesis (10 ECTS)
  • Research Track: Master’s Thesis (30 ECTS)

You will find the full programme here: https://sea-eu.org/mipmal/

Key Subject Areas Covered in MIPMAL Include:

• Port Operations Management – including planning and optimization of cargo handling, terminal management, and cargo flow coordination.
• Maritime Logistics and Supply Chains – integration of maritime and inland transport systems, and the digitalisation of processes.
• Maritime Policy and Sustainable Port Development – international regulations, energy transition in ports, and emissions management.
• Maritime Law and Risk Management – insurance, liability of operators, and port-related contracts.
• Transport Economics and Maritime Market Analysis – modeling of cargo flows, demand forecasting, and competitive landscape analysis.

Graduate Profile

Graduates of the MIPMAL programme will have:

• The ability to manage complex logistics processes in port environments.
• The skills to make strategic decisions considering economic, environmental, and legal factors.
• Knowledge of international regulations and current trends in maritime and intermodal logistics.
• Readiness to work in international settings, supported by English-language instruction and cooperation with partner universities.

During their studies, students will gain competencies in port administration, integration of logistics processes in digital environments, and a deep understanding of sustainability and energy transition within ports.

International Mobility

MIPMAL includes a mandatory 12-month mobility period, allowing students to gain experience in different institutions and work environments:

• Semesters I and II – University of Cádiz
• Semester III – University of Gdańsk
• Semester IV – depending on the chosen track, in one of the MIPMAL partner universities

Cooperation with the Maritime Sector

The MIPMAL programme is tailored to meet the needs of the port-related business sector. It prepares graduates to take up roles in enterprises connected to the industry upon completion of their studies.

The programme is highly practical. During the master's thesis stage, students work with companies to solve real business problems, often combined with internships and job opportunities immediately after graduation.

Our business-oriented internships and thesis projects are already supported by:

• Freeport of Malta
• Port of Algeciras
• Port of Gdańsk Authority SA
• Port of Split
• Port of Faro

These collaborations enable students to gain hands-on experience and complete their final projects in a real-world business environment, significantly increasing their employment prospects.

More information about the MIPMAL programme is available on the University of Gdańsk website:
Port Management and Logistics (MIPMAL)

Contact persons:  dr hab. Przemysław Borkowski, dr Agnieszka Szmelter-Jarosz