The ICMA Centre, part of the world ranked Henley Business School at the University of Reading , UK and ALBA Graduate Business School in Athens, Greece are proud to introduce a new Masters Degree (MSc) in International Shipping and Finance.

This 10-month programme seeks to address the needs of the rapidly evolving, highly competitive and capital intensive shipping industry that have led to increasing demand from shipping and transportation companies as well as finance and consulting firms for personnel with shipping specific, practical financial management skills and knowledge.

The degree is designed to provide a unique educational experience that combines research-led teaching and technically advanced training by world-renowned academic faculty and selected industry practitioners. Participants benefit from hands-on sessions, bespoke simulations, specialised workshops, distinguished guest speakers, and careers events and have the opportunity to spend two months in Greece, a country with a long standing tradition in shipping and the largest merchant fleet in the European Union and second largest in the world. While at ALBA students attend specialised shipping courses and participate in other activities, such as visits to shipping companies, vessels and ports, accompanied by information sessions from shipping practitioners.

The degree has received accreditation by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) and the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investment (CISI) and graduates are eligible for exemptions from the ICS Qualification and CISI Diploma examinations. Internship opportunities with leading companies in the shipping industry as well as scholarship opportunities will also be available to outstanding graduates and applicants respectively.

Dr Alexandridis and Dr Visvikis, the directors of the programme, commented:

"We are delighted that this collaboration between two leading European business schools has materialised. Our expertise in shipping and finance education that integrates theory with practice and excellent industry links are the cornerstones of this new programme that aims to attract graduates seeking either to develop, or to embark upon, a finance-based career in the shipping sector. The ultimate goal is to educate future leaders in the shipping and finance sectors."