MLA College

Following our recent announcement of MLA College’s relationship with The Open University, we are pleased to share the launch of our new MSc Project Management, with applications now open for September 2026.

Designed for professionals looking to develop the skills to lead complex projects, the MSc brings together strategic project management, leadership, agile and digital project management, sustainability, risk and resilience, and data-driven decision-making.

Delivered through flexible distance learning, students can complete the MSc full-time or part-time, making the programme suitable for professionals balancing postgraduate study with work and personal commitments.

MSc Project Management is validated by The Open University. Applications are now open for September 2026.

Find out more: https://tinyurl.com/y2y6cyu3

It was a pleasure for MLA College to be part of the UK Delegation at Brunei Darussalam Maritime Week 2026, representing maritime education alongside the British High Commission Brunei, the Royal Navy, UK Hydrographic Office, Lloyd’s Register, Clarksons and IMarEST.

The week gave us the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with government, industry and education leaders about the role flexible distance learning can play in supporting maritime education and professional development in Brunei.

One of the key moments was welcoming the Minister of Transport and Infocommunications, Dato Seri Setia Awang Mohammed Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohammed Yunos, to the UK Pavilion and sharing more about MLA College and our approach to maritime education.

MLA College was represented by Andrew Wong, Business Development Manager (Asia), who supports partnerships and business development across the region.

A sincere thank you to everyone who welcomed us, shared their perspectives and contributed to the conversations throughout the week. We look forward to building on these connections in the future.

We’re pleased to share an important milestone in MLA College’s academic development as we begin our validated partnership with The Open University. The partnership represents an important step in the continued growth of MLA College, supporting our ambitions to broaden our academic portfolio and develop higher education programmes across new disciplines, while continuing to build on our established areas of expertise.

As MLA College continues to evolve, our focus remains on providing high-quality, flexible higher education that enables professionals around the world to continue their academic and professional development alongside their careers.

We look forward to sharing more about the next chapter for MLA College and the new programmes we will be bringing to our growing academic portfolio. MLA College is approved by The Open University as an appropriate organisation to offer higher education programmes leading to Open University validated awards.

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The maritime industry is evolving, and the skills needed to build a successful career are evolving with it.

From technical and operational expertise to environmental compliance, digital capability, problem-solving and effective communication, sustainable maritime operations require professionals to develop a broader and more adaptable skill set.

If you’re looking to progress your career in the maritime sector, discover six essential skill areas that can help you prepare for the changing demands of a more sustainable and technology-driven industry.

Read more in our latest blog: https://www.mla.ac.uk/blog/essential-skills-for-a-successful-career-in-sustainable-maritime-operations/

The transition towards net zero is changing how the maritime industry operates, invests and prepares for the future.

Maritime Decarbonisation, part of the MSc Sustainable Maritime Operations programme, examines the policies, regulations, technical innovations and operational practices supporting the industry’s transition towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The module helps maritime professionals build an understanding of emerging energy technologies and the complex operational considerations influencing decarbonisation across the sector.

Study flexibly through distance learning while continuing to balance your professional and personal commitments.

Learn more about the programme: https://tinyurl.com/ydfr2b2j

What drives a senior maritime leader to return to education after nearly three decades in the industry?

Join Mike Watt, Fleet Director at Maersk and MLA College alumnus, in conversation with Arjun Sekhon, Partnerships & Alliances Manager at MLA College, for an honest discussion on lifelong learning, leadership growth and preparing for the future of shipping.

With experience spanning engineering, ship management, innovation and fleet operations, Mike will share why he continued investing in his education while progressing through demanding global roles. Having completed both an MSc in Engineering for Marine Professionals and an MBA in Maritime Business Management, he will reflect on how postgraduate study supported his journey from technical expertise to senior leadership.

The session will explore the changing expectations placed on maritime leaders, balancing further study with professional responsibilities and why continuous development remains important at every career stage.

Wednesday, 19 August 2026
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM BST

Register now: https://tinyurl.com/4nfa59j2

The maritime industry offers far more than careers at sea.

From Ship Captains and Marine Superintendents to Port Engineers and Maritime Lawyers, there are a wide range of rewarding roles that keep global trade moving while offering strong earning potential and opportunities for career progression.

If you're considering your next step in the maritime sector, discover 10 of the highest-paying careers in maritime and shipping management and explore how further study can support your long-term professional growth.

Find out more in our latest blog: https://tinyurl.com/38tk2cbf