Maritime Studies Undergraduate Programmes

Niu Wenjue

Shen Wanling

Maritime Studies, Class of 2009​

Sector: Government​
Deputy Director Maritime & Port Authority, Singapore (as of 2022)

I am currently the Assistant Director of the International Maritime Centre (IMC) Promotion team in MPA. I head the Asia team within the Department, and we work closely with ship owners and operators that are Asia-headquartered, partnering them to set up offices in Singapore and identifying programmes that will enable them to further entrench their business operations here. It has been a very enriching experience for me, getting to interact with maritime companies, build and maintain relationships with them; during the COVID-19 pandemic, I also help them to address their problems and ensure that the maritime industry continues to be resilient.​​​

It has been useful to me that the NTU Maritime Studies programme had an industry focus, involving maritime practitioners to share their experiences with us in classes. This equipped me with rich background knowledge of the maritime industry even before I joined the workforce, making the learning curve at work less steep. Opportunities such as internships with maritime companies during my studies, the overseas semester-long exchange during which we visited Norwegian companies to better understand the industry from the perspective of another maritime nation, are some of the most memorable parts of the programme. Till today, I remain in close contact with my fellow course mates and friends, many of whom are now in various sectors of the industry (such as chartering, marine insurance, ship operations).

Shipping is the lifeblood of the Singapore economy, and the maritime industry is a diverse and multifaceted one, with many exciting career opportunities. I hope you will enjoy the journey of learning more about this industry!​​​​​​​​​​

Su Weixiang

Maritime Studies, Class of 2011​

Sector: Ship Management & Chartering
General Manager, J. Lauritzen (as of 2022)

Heading the Pacific Desk for J. Lauritzen Bulkers involves running our trading position as well as managing a team of energetic intellects. The joy of learning every day keeps me on my toes. Making market calls with sometimes limited information and data requires rallying a good team around to make the best calculated move.

The broad curriculum that Maritime Studies offered had certainly given me an edge in executing my duties. From oceanography to maritime technology, and chartering to project management, these are skill sets that can be applied to problem solving on a daily basis. The ball is always grey when you put black and white together and there is no true or false in shipping but only consequences. This is why shipping is a reflection of life and I would say it is a way of life!

A key to staying relevant in the industry is to accept different cultures and you can begin by challenging yourself to work on projects with people outside your circle and comfort zone.​​

Yuen Kum Fai

Maritime Studies, Class of 2012

Sector: Academic
Assistant Professor in Maritime Studies, Nanyang Technological University (as of 2022)

I am an Assistant Professor in Maritime Studies at Nanyang Technological University. My job scope includes research, teaching and service. I find my job enriching and satisfying because it involves advancing our knowledge about managing maritime business environment, nurturing the future generation, and supporting our local maritime industry.

The Maritime Studies programme provides a holistic coverage of the maritime industry covering economic, management, legal, regulation technology and environmental aspects. The programme has equipped me with the necessary knowledge to pursue and complete further studies. The knowledge that I have acquired has remained largely relevant and is used in my research.

The best memories that I have during my studies at the Maritime Studies programme would be the relationships that I have built with my friends and the exciting visit to Oslo, Norway for a semester-long exchange. Living, travelling and studying abroad with my course mates are truly memorable.

The maritime industry is exciting and diverse. I strongly recommend you to sign up for this course and to pursue a career in the maritime industry!​​

Debbie Leng

Maritime Studies, Class of 2015​

Sector: Marine Insurance
Group Insurance & Claims Manager, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (as of 2020)

As Group Insurance & Claims Manager, I am responsible for the insurance and claims matters for Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement globally. My responsibilities include, amongst others, insurance placement, renewals and maintaining an overview and management of the claims which are handled by my team. My job scope also extends beyond the usual marine insurances as I am involved in other aspects of the business, assessing organisational risks and sourcing for appropriate insurance covers whenever necessary.

In my role, I get to work with various people within the organisation and external parties such as insurance brokers, underwriters and clients which makes it enjoyable and challenging. Each claim, as well as the ever-changing risk environment and needs, are unique and presents new learning opportunities, thus making the job less mundane. No day is the same as the one before.

​​​​​​​NTU Maritime Studies programme has equipped me well with the knowledge of the maritime industry beyond just the ports we see every day. It helped me to draw connections between various stakeholders in the industry and understand the importance of each role that makes the sector thrive. More importantly, it opens the door to a myriad of opportunities within this big global industry.

The friendships that I have made at NTU forms the best memories of my time as an undergraduate. From the times we studied and worked on projects together, to going on exchange together as a cohort that made a close-knitted group, and finally as working adults who are all in the same industry where we share the joys and woes that all of us can resonate with. These memories and experiences last a lifetime.

​​​​​​​To the existing students and potential applicants, we look forward to meeting or working with you some day in future! The industry needs and will always keep its doors open for young and motivated individuals.​​​

Wang Wenxiu Charlotte 

Maritime Studies, Class of 2016

Sector: Supply Chain & Logistics
Senior Manager, Supply Chain, Proctor & Gamble (as of 2022)

I am currently working in Proctor & Gamble as a Supply Chain Manager, focusing on Demand Planning. I am responsible for developing volume forecast for our products which guides business and production plans. The forecast is developed based on historical consumption data, latest commercial inputs and supply constraints. I truly enjoy the job as it is not only intellectually challenging but also provides the opportunity to interact with multiple functions in the company.

The curriculum in NTU Maritime Studies has broadened my horizon on integrated global supply chain. Upon graduation, I joined a shipping company as a Management Trainee which enabled me to utilize my maritime knowledge and gain insights on real-world operations. At work, I was also given the opportunity to manage other supply chain related businesses which sparked my interest to learn more about this field and did a part-time masters in supply chain management. I appreciate my education in NTU Maritime Studies which provided me with an eye-opening experience and good foundation for all supply chain related roles.

My best memory of NTU Maritime Studies would be the MPA-sponsored Global Internship Programme when I spent 2 months in Denmark with a top-notch shipping company. The internship has given me valuable international exposure and more in-depth understanding of the maritime industry.

Eugene Lim

Maritime Studies, Class of 2019​

Sector: Port Management
Terminal Stowage Planner, PSA Singapore (as of 2020)

I am currently a terminal stowage planner in PSA Singapore. I plan and ensure that stowage profiles of incoming container vessels are well optimized, keeping in mind that 'stability' is of utmost priority as there are lives onboard the vessels. As the world's busiest transhipment port, PSA Singapore is beaming with vessels awaiting to berth for cargo operations.

Thus, with a good stowage plan, smooth operations can then be executed by the frontline operations team to turnaround vessels quickly before serving the next vessel. My job is satisfying as I am facilitating and connecting global trade.

​​​​​​​With a strong foundation and knowledge that NTU MS has provided me over the years, I have an edge over my peers in terms of port and shipping knowledge. I am then able to share my knowledge in the field with my peers. Most importantly, NTU MS has taught me the importance of persevering through tough moments and that anything can be achieved, if we pour our heart and soul into it.

Being away with my friends and experiencing the culture in Europe during my semester-long exchange programme in Norway was the best memory of my time in NTU MS. I also missed the jokes and laughter that my friends shared amongst preparing for assignments, tests and examinations.

​​​​​​​Singapore's roots have always been its seaport and is now an internationally acclaimed maritime centre. As the industry is tight knitted, it is important to get to know your batchmates, seniors and juniors alike and network well starting from school. The people around you are your future connections!​​

Muhammad Nawazsher Khan

Maritime Studies, Class of 2019​

Sector: Shipbroking
Shipbroker Executive, Strait Shipbroker (as of 2020)

Currently I am a shipbroker at Strait Shipbroker specialising in the Chemicals and Vegetable Oil Products. The role of a shipbroker is to assist in fixing contractual deals between the Charterers and Shipowners. The kind of ships that I handle are mainly Tankers and they carry cargoes either in full load or in smaller parcels. Every segment of the industry has its own characteristics. Coming from a background of Dry Bulk, I am continuously learning at my current role in the Wet Bulk segment. It requires considerable amount of interaction with different market players. Building relationships with the different parties is a very important aspect of the job as a shipbroker. I enjoy my current role as I would describe myself to be outgoing. I dislike spending most of my time staring at my screen the whole day punching into the keyboard.

The NTU Maritime Studies covers a rather wide scope of the maritime industry, ranging from Maritime Law to Port Planning, to Warehousing and Distribution. The fundamental and broad knowledge allows graduates to explore numerous career opportunities upon graduation. The instructors are very experienced in their respective fields and it exposes the students not only to the theoretical aspects but also the real-life experiences, which allow student to receive a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Many of my batchmate would definitely agree that the Exchange Programme that the programme had in store for us during our Year 3 is a memorable experience. My exchange programme was in Oslo, Norway where we spent 1 semester experiencing a different culture and learning environment, and also the travelling that we manage to slip in between our semester breaks.

In addition, I was awarded the MPA Global Internship Award, which sponsors awardees (most of which are from NTU Maritime Studies) to do internship with a Maritime company both in their local and overseas branch. I had the privilege to spend 6 weeks in the Singapore office and 4 weeks in the London office. Working abroad is definitely a different experience altogether unlike travelling as tourist. It broadened my perspective as an individual to the different working environment and skills required.

Lim Hong Yu

Maritime Studies, Class of 2019​

Sector: Energy Trading
Energy Trader, Centrica Energy Trading (as of 2020)

I am currently working as a trader at Centrica Energy Trading. I find my job satisfying because I am constantly challenged to make the best possible decisions with the available market information. The decisions that I make directly affects the company’s performance, so it gives me a great sense of empowerment and ownership. I also enjoy keeping up with the commodity markets and monitoring how different geopolitical events influence gas, oil, coal and LNG prices. Understanding the intricacies behind the markets are of great importance.

Maritime studies have given us a broad perspective of what goes on in the shipping industry and how the industry plays a huge part in the global transportation, be it container shipping or dry/wet cargoes. It is the backbone of global trade and certainly cannot be overlooked by anyone. The International Trading Programme (ITP) specialisation has provided me significant exposure to commodity trading and the related companies. I am forever grateful for the education as it has opened an exciting career path that I foresee myself to be working in for years to come.

The best memories of my time at NTU Maritime Studies? Hands down, the overseas exchange in Norway with my close friends where we probably had the time of our lives. How I wish I can relive those memories!

My message to potential applicants on enrolling in NTU Maritime Studies is to keep an open mind, read as much as you can about the industry and be daring to speak up and go beyond your books! This is an industry knowledge driven sector. Besides the curriculum, your most valuable knowledge might be gained through your internships and knowing the right people. ​​​​​

Ng Sen Mian

Maritime Studies, Class of 2020​

Sector: Energy Transportation & Infrastructure Services
Management Trainee, BW Group (as of 2020)

I am currently a management trainee with BW Group. I am given the opportunity to rotate across the various business units within the organization and am currently serving a rotation with the LNG team. I assist the business development team in analyzing and developing new business opportunities to deploy our assets into the LNG market. Generating useful insights to help the business development team make informed decisions as well as learning from my experienced colleagues brings me satisfaction, knowing that I am learning and contributing at the same time.

My time in NTU Maritime Studies have allowed me to understand the maritime industry better, equipping me with the relevant skills to grasp important concepts in shipping. Group work and discussions foster interaction and communication, while our professors impart fundamental shipping concepts to us during classes.

Being comfortable with speaking up improves communication at the workplace while the concepts we learned in school reduces the knowledge gap when joining the industry.

The best memories of my time in NTU Maritime Studies would be my semester exchange to Norway. Apart from experiencing a different education system, we were able to visit various countries to experience different cultures as well. This promotes cultural intelligence, allowing us to improve cross-cultural communication which is a common sight given how international the shipping industry is. In addition, travelling with friends made the entire experience better as we had plenty of fun and memorable experiences together.

To potential applicants, do consider this program as an introduction to an international and dynamic industry. To existing students, learning does not stop outside the classroom. Look to expand your personal growth and development through various means such as discussions, seminar events, and internships.

Cheryl Teng

Maritime Studies, Class of 2020​

Sector: Oil & Gas Trading
Trading Executive, TOTAL Trading Asia (as of 2020)

​​​Currently, I am working as a Trading Executive at TOTAL Trading Asia Pte Ltd, focusing on the Petrochemical market. My role is basically the middleman/coordinator between the different counterparties. After the trader has clinched a deal, I will take over the physical deliveries. My job encompasses coordinating with all involving parties and to provide necessary instructions for vessels to load and discharge their cargo.

As an oil trading operator, I have to understand the refining process for the products that I am handling in terms of their specifications and quality. This is important as there are certain restrictions to adhere to when transporting petrochemical products in a tanker for safety purposes. So far, I feel most satisfied when I complete the whole cycle of a shipment/deal. The challenges that I faced during each shipment excites and frustrates me at the same time, but I guess that is what make this job interesting. You learn to handle a variety of scenarios with different parties involved and get to know about how trading works too.

The Incoterms and Shipping terms (e.g., laytime and demurrage) that I learnt in NTU Maritime Studies have prepared me well in understanding the delivery terms for each shipment. I could also better position myself when coordinating with the ship master, as I have once personally experience how working onboard the vessel is like during my internship. This rare opportunity to be onboard was part of my internship programme that NTU partnered with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, called MPA Global Internship Award.

The exchange programme during Year 3 to Norway was the best memories I forged during my time at NTU Maritime Studies. Studying abroad in a new environment and making friends from different countries has allow me to see how diverse the world is, just like shipping. If you are curious about how shipping interconnects with the different part of the world, come join NTU Maritime Studies and understand how shipping plays an important role in international trading.​​​

Tan Xin Hui

Maritime Studies, Class of 2021​

Sector: Market Intelligence
Infrastructure & Marine Research Analyst, Clarksons Research (as of 2021)

​​​Currently, I am working as an Infrastructure & Marine Research Analyst in the Clarksons Research. My main role encompasses data research as well as the management of various databases and data sources related to the marine infrastructure segment. For example, as environmental regulations aimed at decarbonising the maritime sector has been accelerating, I have also been increasingly involved in the primary market research of various alternative fuel projects, including LNG, Ammonia, and other fuel types. Additionally, I was also given opportunities to take on more responsibilities which include the production of monthly reports covering the ports and infrastructure sector as well as global vessel movement statistics. I find my job satisfying as I’m constantly challenged to think of alternative solutions to different scenarios, which also help to broaden my perspectives.

The Maritime Studies programme had not only provided me with diverse knowledge of the maritime industry, but also other supporting functions such as shipping and commodity trading. The insights and industry experiences shared by our professors provided us the competitive edge and they remain useful to my current work. In addition, the flexible curriculum structure allowed us to take up modules beyond the Maritime curriculum. I enrolled in a foreign language class and a few modules related to cultural intelligence, which eventually helped me in my research work and adapting well in a culturally diverse work environment.