Shipping is a growth Industry
Shipping is a growth industry, yet turbulent and challenging
Shipping plays a vital role in world trade and is the backbone of the world economy. Without ships and the transportation services these ships provide, the world would not be as prosperous as it is today and many countries would not be able to participate in world trade.
In recent years, shipping has proven to be a growth industry witnessing the increase in gross tonnage of the world fleet by millions of tonnage every year. Since the worldwide economical downturn set in late 2008, the interdependence of global economies has become even more evident. International trade – by any mode of transport – has been affected immediately and dramatically. 
These developments make the shipping and transport industry so complex, yet so exciting to work in. The dynamics are driven by the growth rates of the trades, the ups and downs of business cycles, as well as by a large number of external innovation triggers. Managing these challenges requires not only professional training of the highest standards, but also a thorough academic understanding of specialised knowledge domains.
There are different categories of maritime professionals: port managers, maritime officers, engineers, economists, lawyers, shipbrokers, charterers, naval architects.
Where do shipping people get their education and training? A number of them have had special maritime education or has been educated in a specialist area. Another category has been trained on the job What all people have in common is their passion for the industry, their international mindset and their commitment to remain working in this highly interesting field of business.
Worldwide there are very few specialised maritime universities that offer a comprehensive shipping program. The STC-Group is such a specialised educational institution that is renowned for one-stop-shop for education and training to the maritime industry. Based in Rotterdam, one of world’s largest trade and transport hubs STC-Group offers a great location to experience the spirit of world shipping.
The Netherlands Maritime University offers a specialised Master program for the maritime professional. This Master program is the Master Shipping and Transport. Our Academic Board consists of key persons from the industry and the academic society. They ensure that the quality of the program making time and money a worthwhile investment.