Goal

This Master's degree programme is for those who are interested in being a part of the fourth industrial revolution in maritime technology. The programme has a special focus concerning the digitalization of maritime operations. The target is to achieve state of the art competence and knowledge in the area of autonomous maritime operations.

The degree programme in Autonomous Maritime Operation is comprised of 60 ECTS and the degree title is Master of Engineering, Autonomous Maritime Operations.

Structure of Studies and Research Focus

The programme in Autonomous Maritime Operations has a special focus concerning the digitalisation of maritime operations. The studies include 6 courses of relevant subjects each of an extent of 5 credits.

Following subjects are covered:

• Studying in the Master’s programme and Introduction to Research and Research Methods
• Autonomous Vessels-automation
• Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Human-Machine Interaction
• Remote Operations
• Cyber Security and Connectivity
• Classification, Qualification and Safety Perspectives
• Thesis, 30 ECTS

The studies are optimized for flexible learning and studying, parallel with fulltime employment ashore or at sea. The studies are arranged at site and online with the lecture materials, as well as the assignments to be completed online, in the system Moodle. We use Microsoft Teams for communication in the group, both students and teachers. For study administrative things the Peppi system is used. It is recommended but not mandatory for you during the studies to attend some sessions in person at campus. It can namely also be good to meet and network with your peers and thesis supervisor. The lectures that take place on campus will be recorded. We meet on average two days a month.

It is mandatory to visit Finland to show the student Admission the original certificates used in the application. Moving to Finland is not necessary for the studies. Moreover, such a thing would be something between Finnish Immigrations Service and the student.

The thesis work is usually realized as a research and development project related to working life.

Thesis

The Master's thesis is a demanding development project or research work combining theory, praxis and creation of new knowledge. The thesis subject and aim are based on requirements and needs of the maritime field. The theme of the thesis (30 ECTS) must be related to the fields studied, preferably agreed upon with an industry representative. The thesis thus works as a bridge between study and work and gives students the opportunity to apply theoretical thinking to practical problems. Constructing a thesis subject and the potential collaboration with an organization is at the responsibility of the student.

Alternatives for the thesis are, for example:

• an investigation or analysis
• a development project or case/s
• theoretical work
• product development, such as a prototype, process or a model.

Career Opportunities

After completing the programme in Autonomous Maritime Operations, you will be qualified to pursue a wide range of career opportunities. As a graduate you should be better suited for future employment related to the digitalisation in the maritime sector.

Internationalisation

Given that the language of tuition is English, the possibilities for working on an international scale, both during and after the studies, are good. For example, the thesis project is suitable to conduct abroad or in an international business.

Language of Instruction

The studies are conducted in English.

Collaboration With Other Actors

Novia UAS and Aboa Mare, the unit for maritime education, co-operate with several universities both internationally and nationally.

Cooperation takes place within RDI projects, student and/or staff exchanges, as well as within continuing education to name a few areas. International maritime actors visit Aboa Mare on a regular basis.

Aboa Mare’s location, in the same building as many representatives of maritime authorities, provides possibilities for collaboration with them.

Novia UAS and Aboa Mare have a long tradition in cooperation with marine installation manufacturing companies, such as ABB, Kongsberg, and Wärtsilä, regarding training and consulting services.

Continuing Education Opportunities

With a master’s degree, students are able to continue on to university post-graduate (licentiate/doctoral) studies. However, universities may, at their own discretion, have specific admission requirements for post-graduate studies that must be met in addition to a completed master’s degree.