Tallinn University of Technology

Join a world-class program that puts you at the cutting edge of maritime and digital transformation, equipping you with the skills to lead the future of the industry in just one year.

Overview

Who Is This Program For?

  • Are you a mid-career maritime professional struggling to keep up with digital change? Stay ahead by mastering maritime digitalization.
  • Are you a recent graduate finding it hard to stand out? Gain specialized skills in digitalization and secure a high-paying role.
  • Are you aspiring maritime leader, but feeling stuck? Unlock career growth by mastering sustainability and digital tools.
  • Are you a professional who is passionate about maritime sustainability but unsure how to make an impact? Lead the change with expertise in digital innovation.

Join the Estonian Maritime Academy's exclusive, fully English-taught one-year Master’s degree program, the only one of its kind in the Baltic region. This innovative program combines maritime expertise with cutting-edge IT knowledge, equipping you with the essential skills to thrive in a rapidly digitizing and sustainable maritime industry.

Shape Your Career in Maritime Digitalization – APPLY NOW

During studies, You'll learn the latest technologies in AI and data analytics tailored to maritime operations. By mastering these tools, you’ll stay ahead of industry changes and be equipped to optimize maritime efficiency. With this expertise, you'll become an indispensable asset to any maritime organization.

You’ll gain knowledge and strategies to excel in the green shipping revolution. This understanding ensures you can navigate sustainability regulations effectively, protecting your career while making a positive global impact. Your ability to respond ethically will be crucial in shaping a sustainable future for maritime.

You will work on hands-on projects and case studies from day one. By applying cutting-edge technology and maritime expertise, you’ll develop the skills to make strategic decisions and optimize operations. This practical experience ensures you are ready to face real-world challenges and succeed in the maritime industry.

You will learn to identify and apply cutting-edge sustainable opportunities within maritime development. By integrating sustainable practices, you'll contribute to environmental and business success. This course empowers you to lead the charge in maritime innovation, ensuring both profitability and sustainability go hand in hand.

You will graduate with an MSc and the credentials to compete in international job markets. The program equips you with the ability to analyze maritime data and make data-driven decisions, boosting efficiency and profitability. With your degree, you’ll stand out in the global maritime industry, ready to tackle complex challenges.

Check out the Maritime Digital Solutions curriculum here

About the Program Manager

Anatoli Alop
Anatoli Alop

Anatoli Alop is the Master's Program Director at TalTech Estonian Maritime Academy and an internationally recognized expert in the field of maritime studies. He is distinguished by over 30 years of experience in managing maritime education and research. His specialization includes maritime law, commercial shipping operations, as well as navigation. Associate Professor Alop has been involved in managing international projects and providing expert opinions on complex maritime issues, such as shipwrecks, environmental impact assessments, and port development. His research and development work includes strategic studies, collaboration with international maritime organizations, and sharing knowledge as a guest lecturer worldwide. With his extensive academic and practical experience, Anatoli Alop is an inspiring leader dedicated to developing the next generation of maritime professionals and advancing innovation in the maritime sector. Under Anatoli’s leadership, this program is not just about earning a degree — it’s about shaping the next generation of maritime leaders who will drive the industry forward in a sustainable, digital-first world.

Why study in Estonia?

  • The Estonian Maritime Academy is the only institution in Estonia that offers applied higher education, master's, and doctoral programs in maritime studies, as well as conducting specialized research, making it a key competence center in the field.
  • At the Maritime Academy, you’ll be taught by maritime experts and top specialists who, in addition to their thorough theoretical knowledge, have extensive practical experience. They have helped hundreds of students acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in leading industries worldwide.
  • We value a personalized approach at the Estonian Maritime Academy. Classes are held in small groups, ensuring that every student receives individual attention. Here, we know each other by name, and communication is always friendly.
  • As a student at the Maritime Academy, you are a full member of the TalTech student body, with access to all the rights and services available to TalTech students.
  • Studies take place in the modern auditoriums of TalTech and the Estonian Maritime Academy. From the spacious windows of the Maritime Academy’s historic limestone building, you can enjoy a million-dollar view of Tallinn Bay, adding a unique atmosphere to your studies.
  • The Maritime Academy is dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly solutions. Our mission is to educate highly regarded maritime specialists, contribute to maritime research and development, and provide services to the maritime sector. Our graduates are skilled in using modern technologies and possess the knowledge to create and support a sustainable (environmentally friendly and energy-efficient) future in maritime industries.

Shape Your Career in Maritime Digitalization - apply now

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Estonian Maritime Academy

Key Features

Study Programme

Degree: Master of Science in Engineering (MSc)

Duration: 1 year

Faculty: Estonian Maritime Academy

Study Load: 60 ECTS (view curriculum)

Mode of Study: Full-time study

Study Information

Language: English (view English language requirements)

Tuition Fee: €6000 per year; free for EU/EEA citizens

Scholarships: Different options available

Admission: General admission guidelines

Legal basis for staying in Estonia

Information for non-EU citizens

Legal basis: D-Visa only (as the duration of studies is one academic year)

Information for EU citizens

Legal basis: Estonian ID card

Program Benefits

When you graduate from this program, you will be ready to thrive in a digitalized maritime world. You will have the skills to plan sustainable strategies, develop data-driven systems, and lead teams in dynamic, international environments. Because the maritime industry is global, you will be equipped to work anywhere in the world—whether onshore, at ports, or in other maritime sector companies. You will also have the opportunity to pursue roles in the public sector as a field developer or coordinator, shaping the future of the industry.

If you’re looking to continue your education, this program opens doors to doctoral studies, project research, and teaching opportunities at top universities. The skills and credentials you gain will ensure you're ready for the next big step in your maritime career.

Key benefits of the Maritime Digital Solutions Program

  • Industry-relevant skills in big data analysis, AI in maritime operations, and sustainability strategies.
  • Enhanced maritime expertise and business acumen.
  • Leadership qualities for higher responsibility roles in maritime companies.
  • Qualifications for leadership positions in green shipping and digital transformation.
  • Tools to unlock higher-paying roles globally.
  • Real-world digital tools application, maritime safety expertise, and sustainable practices.
  • Industry-ready skills from day one.
  • Core modules on IoT in Maritime, Maritime Safety, Sustainability Strategies, Data Analytics, and more.
  • Opportunity to work on a Master's Thesis linked to your current job.
  • Potential to turn thesis ideas into startups, securing funding and global opportunities.

Admissions

We’re excited that you’re considering joining our program! To be admitted, you’ll need to meet the admission threshold. Here’s how it works: first, we’ll evaluate your previous education and the results of your GRE General Test. If you meet the criteria, we’ll move on to the next step: the admission assessment.

The assessment consists of two parts:

  1. Motivation letter (0-10 points)
  2. Interview (0-10 points)

We’ll invite you to an online interview only if you score at least 5 points on your motivation letter. To be admitted, you’ll need to score at least 5 points on both your motivation letter and the interview. We’re looking forward to seeing how you’ll shine through this process!

Previous education

To apply for the program, you need to have a Master's degree or an equivalent qualification, or a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 240 ECTS credits. If you have a Bachelor's degree with 180 ECTS credits, you can still qualify if you’ve completed an additional 60 ECTS credits in fields like marine studies, IT, management, or something closely related. These 60 ECTS credits should be detailed in your application and uploaded to the system. Additionally, to be eligible for studies at Tallinn University of Technology, your cumulative GPA (CGPA) must be at least 60% of the highest possible score.

GRE General Test To apply, you'll need to upload your GRE General Test Score Report to the DreamApply system. Here's what you’ll need to meet:

  • Verbal Reasoning: at least 145
  • Quantitative Reasoning: at least 150
  • Analytical Writing: at least 3.0

Make sure to have these scores by the application deadline—this is a crucial step for qualifying. If you’ve completed your higher education in an EU, EFTA, or OECD member state, you’re exempt from the GRE requirement. For more details on the GRE requirement, including the criteria for exemptions and how to send your test results directly to TalTech, click here. We're here to help guide you through every step!

Motivation Letter

We want to hear from you! The motivation letter is your chance to show us why you're excited about the Maritime Digital Solutions program and why it’s the right choice for you. To make it easier, we’ve broken it down into a few simple steps:

Step 1: Introduce Yourself

  • Share your educational and professional background.
  • Tell us why you’re passionate about pursuing a master’s in maritime digitalization.
  • Explain your readiness for the program and what you expect to gain.

Step 2: Share Your Career Vision

  • How do you see yourself in the maritime industry, especially in the digital era?
  • What skills do you hope to gain from this program?
  • How will those skills shape your future role in the industry?

Step 3: Master’s Thesis Proposal

  • What problem or research question do you want to explore in your thesis?
  • Why does this topic matter to you, and who will benefit from it?
  • Provide a brief outline of your thesis, including the topic, planned supervisor, and a timeline for completion by April.

Step 4: Keep It Personal and Authentic

  • Your motivation letter should be genuine and personal.
  • Make sure to cite any sources or quotes you reference, and avoid using AI-generated text.
  • The length of the letter should be around two pages.

Evaluation Criteria
Your letter will be evaluated on:

  1. Desire to study and interest in the program (25%).
  2. Motivation to complete the program on time (25%).
  3. Analysis of how the studies will help your career (25%).
  4. Vision for your future after graduation (25%).

You’ll be scored on a 0-10 scale, with 5 points or higher being a positive result. We're looking forward to learning more about you!

Online Interview

The online interview is your chance to shine, and it’s based on the motivation letter you submit. You can earn up to 10 points for the interview, but remember: if you don’t participate, you’ll receive 0 points. To be invited to the interview, you’ll need a positive result from your motivation letter. During the interview, we’ll focus on getting to know you better. We’ll be looking to understand:

  1. Your readiness for master's studies based on your motivation letter.
  2. What drives you to learn and grow, and why you want to pursue this program.
  3. Your motivation to complete the curriculum and make the most of your studies.
  4. Why these studies are essential for your professional development and future career.

Here’s how we’ll evaluate the interview:

  • Can you clearly explain why you want to study the Maritime Digital Solutions program and explore current topics in the field? (25%)
  • Do you have a strong overall understanding of the program’s content and focus? (25%)
  • Do you grasp how the maritime industry connects with other fields like transport, economics, and the environment? (25%)
  • Can you communicate effectively about maritime digitalization and discuss your motivation letter with confidence? (25%)

We’re looking forward to learning more about you and your ambitions. Make the most of this opportunity to showcase your passion and vision for your future in maritime digital solutions!

Future Career

The maritime industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, and outdated processes are holding back your career growth and job satisfaction. As the industry shifts towards digitalization and sustainability, many professionals like you are struggling to keep up with new technologies and regulations. You may even feel uncertain about your career path as these changes unfold.

But you're not alone – the entire industry is evolving, and staying ahead is more important than ever. Without the right skills, there’s a real risk of being left behind in this fast-paced, tech-driven world.

That’s where the Maritime Digital Solutions program at Estonian Maritime Academy comes in. Designed for forward-thinking professionals, this program equips you with the tools to thrive in the digital age of maritime operations. In just one year, you’ll gain the expertise needed to navigate the changing landscape and stay ahead of the curve.

Whether your goal is to lead in maritime companies, governmental agencies, or academia, this program will give you the advanced knowledge and digital skills to excel. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of maritime operations while mastering the technologies driving the industry’s future.

With the right training, you’ll be ready to seize global career opportunities, positioning yourself for success in the maritime workforce. Don’t miss out on this chance to future-proof your career and ensure you're part of the maritime industry's digital revolution.

Join us at Estonian Maritime Academy and take the first step towards securing your place in the future of maritime. Secure your spot today!

What Our Students Are Saying About This Program

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"The most exciting yet also the most challenging aspect for me was starting with the Python programming language, as I had no prior experience with it—whether for better or worse. However, within the context of the maritime digitalization specialization, discovering the opportunity to learn programming was truly inspiring. This experience provided me with an understanding of programming languages and how different systems function.

The program was work-friendly, as lectures were held in the evening, allowing me to balance my studies with daytime employment. This flexibility enabled me to successfully combine both commitments. The curriculum also covered an introduction to computer hardware along with the concept of data centers, which was both fascinating and highly relevant, supporting the writing of my master's thesis.

Additionally, the entrepreneurship courses were particularly beneficial, as my goal was to develop and implement the data center concept. These lectures provided valuable insights into business aspects. A particularly positive aspect of the program was the involvement of international lecturers, one of whom became my master's thesis supervisor."  Mark Abner

Ask Us

TalTech international admissions office

TalTech international admissions office provides general advice to prospective Bachelor’s and Master’s degree applicants and their advisers about applying to and studying at TalTech.
 

Contact us via study@taltech.ee.

Head of Centre of Academic Affairs at Estonian Maritime Academy

Head of Centre of Academic Affairs can help you
with questions about the organisation of studies.


Heili Kangust
(+372) 613 5511
heili.kangust@taltech.ee


Programme Manager

Programme Manager can help you with questions about the study programme.

Anatoli Alop
anatoli.alop@taltech.ee