Beyond safe, traditional jobs lies a rewarding career on the high seas

The global crisis resulting from the blockade of Strait of Hormuz notwithstanding, opportunities in the maritime sector are set to grow beyond sailing jobs alone, say experts. TOI finds out why a maritime career is still considered rewardingOne of the oldest industries around and widely accepted as the backbone of global trade, the maritime sector is adding newer employment opportunities by the day. This despite the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which is likely to end soon. The jobs and roles it offers are not only wide-ranging, but also lucrative. To allow students from the state to tap into these opportunities, the Telangana Council for Higher Education (TGCHE) has introduced a new BBA programme in Maritime Technology, Commerce and Management.The programme is aimed at preparing students for careers in shipping, logistics, port operations, and global trade. Unlike traditional marine engineering courses, which are largely restricted to students from science and mathematics backgrounds, the new programme will also be open to students from commerce and other streams through the state’s Degree Online Services Telangana (DOST) admission platform.The move comes at a time when students are exploring specialised and industry-oriented courses instead of limiting themselves to popular choices such as computer science or management. Industry experts say the maritime and logistics sectors are expected to create significant employment over the next decade due to rising global trade, infrastructure expansion, and digital transformation.Open to non-MPCstudentsExplaining the vision behind the course, TGCHE chairman Balakista Reddy said the course, designed as a multidisciplinary programme, blends maritime studies with business and technology.“The programme spans three years across six semesters and includes 36 papers focused on logistics, global trade, port management, digital systems, sustainability, and governance.”Rising demand in maritime sectorIndustry experts say the timing of the course is significant because the logistics and shipping industries are witnessing rapid expansion both in India and globally. According to Pushpank Kaushik, CEO & head of business development (Subcontinent, Middle East, & Southeast Asia) at Jassper Shipping, India’s logistics market is projected to grow from US$228 billion in 2024 to US$429 billion by 2033 due to expansion of infrastructure and the emergence of new trade corridors.“Fresh graduates entering the maritime logistics sector can expect starting salaries between ₹3 lakh and ₹6 lakh annually, depending on their institution and skill set. As supply chains become technology-driven and globally interconnected, companies need professionals who can manage cargo movement, shipping operations, and international logistics efficiently,” he said.Speaking about costs and preparation required for maritime careers, marine engineer Sandeep Patil said course fees across institutes can vary widely depending on the institution and programme type.“Fees generally range between ₹2 lakh and ₹15 lakh. However, many institutes also offer scholarships, education loans, and assistance.”Sea- & shore-based job rolesHowever, he noted that career opportunities in the maritime industry today extend far beyond sailing jobs alone.“Graduates can move into ship management, port operations, offshore energy, cruise operations, marine equipment companies, ship repair, technical consultancy, and logistics management. There are also opportunities in ship design and naval architecture for students who develop software skills in tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Rhino, or ANSYS,” Ramidi said.He added that marine surveying — including cargo inspections, damage surveys, and insurance-linked assessments — is another growing career option for maritime graduates.Apart from commercial shipping and logistics, graduates can also explore opportunities in the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, defence-related engineering services, shipbuilding firms, offshore industries, classification societies, and maritime research organisations.For many students, experts say the attraction of the sector lies not only in job stability and salaries, but also in the international exposure that maritime careers can offer. Professionals in the field often get opportunities to travel globally, work with advanced technologies, and earn in foreign currencies while contributing to industries that drive global trade and commerce.TGCHE chairman Reddy said students who pursue higher education or specialised training abroad may also gain exposure to emerging areas such as offshore structures, marine renewable energy, autonomous vessels, ocean engineering, and ship design.“The sector is vast and constantly evolving. Students who combine formal education with practical exposure, communication skills, and continuous learning are likely to find the best opportunities.”Skills beyond academicsPatil stressed that students entering the maritime field must focus not only on academics, but also on physical fitness, discipline, and communication skills.“Students should be prepared for demanding work environments and long sea voyages. Choosing institutes approved by the Directorate General of Shipping is very important. Practical training and safety awareness are equally essential in this field,” Patil said.Many graduates eventually begin their careers in the merchant navy, where they undergo onboard training under senior officers.“This stage allows students to learn machinery operations, ship maintenance, safety systems, and operational procedures while completing their mandatory sea-time training and certification requirements,” said Priyatham Ramidi, marine engineering expert.