Korea Maritime & Ocean University

Shaping the future of maritime and ocean innovation.

📍 Busan, South Korea 🇰🇷

🏆 #78 in South Korea

Quick Facts about Korea Maritime & Ocean University

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 8,331
  • Campus: Suburban
  • Tuition: $2,000 – $6,500/year
  • Language: Korean, English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 35:1
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Korea Maritime & Ocean University

Korea Maritime & Ocean University (KMOU), established in 1945, is a leading national university in Busan, South Korea, specializing in maritime and ocean studies. It plays a crucial role in fostering skilled professionals for the maritime industry and contributing to South Korea's standing as a top maritime power. KMOU is dedicated to advancing maritime research and aims to be a world-class research-oriented institution.

Academics

KMOU offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various colleges, including Maritime Sciences, Ocean Science and Technology, Engineering, and Maritime Business and Law. The curriculum is rigorous, providing students with a strong academic foundation and practical skills in specialized fields like nautical science, marine biology, naval architecture, and maritime logistics. The university is renowned for its cutting-edge research, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and research institutes focusing on areas such as maritime logistics, shipbuilding, and marine biotechnology.

International Students

KMOU provides comprehensive support services for international students, including orientation programs, Korean language courses, and academic advising. While many degree programs primarily use Korean, the university also offers English-taught programs and courses, particularly for exchange students. Cultural exchange activities are organized to help international students experience Korean culture and interact with local students. Scholarships are also available to support international students.

Campus & Location

Situated on Yeongdo island in Busan, South Korea's second-largest city and a major port, KMOU offers an ideal environment for maritime and oceanic studies. The campus features modern educational and research facilities, including advanced simulators, laboratories, and a maritime library. On-campus housing, dining facilities, and recreational areas contribute to a comfortable student life. Busan itself is known for its beautiful coastline, dynamic culture, and strategic importance in international trade.

Career Outcomes

KMOU graduates are highly sought after by shipping companies, port management organizations, and international logistics and ocean-related enterprises. The university's strong industry connections facilitate internships and job placements at major companies. Given the global nature of the maritime and ocean industries, graduates also find opportunities worldwide, supported by KMOU's international partnerships and alumni network. The university aims to foster talent that can contribute to the maritime industry throughout their careers, even beyond traditional retirement age.

Information for International Students at Korea Maritime & Ocean University

Korea Maritime & Ocean University in Busan, South Korea welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$250000/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Korean, English

Admissions Requirements for Korea Maritime & Ocean University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Korea Maritime & Ocean University:

  • IELTS minimum: 5.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 68
  • GPA minimum: 2.5
  • Application fee: $50

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Programs at Korea Maritime & Ocean University (54 programs)

Korea Maritime & Ocean University offers 54 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (12)

  • Division of Maritime Transportation Science (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    This program focuses on the principles and practices of ship operation, navigation, and maritime logistics, preparing students for careers as deck officers and maritime professionals.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: Deck Officer, Maritime Administrator, Port Manager
  • Division of Ocean System Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    This program covers the engineering aspects of ocean structures, offshore plants, and marine environmental systems, preparing students for roles in ocean development.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Ocean Engineer, Offshore Plant Designer, Marine Environmental Specialist
  • Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    Students learn the principles of designing, constructing, and maintaining ships and offshore structures, integrating naval architecture with ocean engineering.
    Field: Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Naval Architect, Ship Designer, Offshore Engineer
  • Department of Marine IT Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    Combines information technology with marine applications, covering areas like smart ship systems, marine communication networks, and maritime cybersecurity to innovate the maritime industry.
    Field: Marine IT Engineering
    Career outcomes: Marine IT Specialist, Smart Ship Developer, Maritime Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Division of Maritime Transportation Science (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    This program focuses on the principles and practices of ship operation, navigation, and maritime logistics, preparing students for careers as deck officers and maritime professionals.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: Deck Officer, Maritime Administrator, Port Manager
  • Division of Ocean System Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    This program covers the engineering aspects of ocean structures, offshore plants, and marine environmental systems, preparing students for roles in ocean development.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Ocean Engineer, Offshore Plant Designer, Marine Environmental Specialist
  • Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    Students learn the principles of designing, constructing, and maintaining ships and offshore structures, integrating naval architecture with ocean engineering.
    Field: Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Naval Architect, Ship Designer, Offshore Engineer
  • Department of Marine IT Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    Combines information technology with marine applications, covering areas like smart ship systems, marine communication networks, and maritime cybersecurity to innovate the maritime industry.
    Field: Marine IT Engineering
    Career outcomes: Marine IT Specialist, Smart Ship Developer, Maritime Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Division of Maritime Transportation Science (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    This program focuses on the principles and practices of ship operation, navigation, and maritime logistics, preparing students for careers as deck officers and maritime professionals.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: Deck Officer, Maritime Administrator, Port Manager
  • Division of Ocean System Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    This program covers the engineering aspects of ocean structures, offshore plants, and marine environmental systems, preparing students for roles in ocean development.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Ocean Engineer, Offshore Plant Designer, Marine Environmental Specialist
  • Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    Students learn the principles of designing, constructing, and maintaining ships and offshore structures, integrating naval architecture with ocean engineering.
    Field: Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Naval Architect, Ship Designer, Offshore Engineer
  • Department of Marine IT Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
    Combines information technology with marine applications, covering areas like smart ship systems, marine communication networks, and maritime cybersecurity to innovate the maritime industry.
    Field: Marine IT Engineering
    Career outcomes: Marine IT Specialist, Smart Ship Developer, Maritime Cybersecurity Analyst

Master Programs (18)

  • Graduate Program in Marine Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    This program offers in-depth knowledge in marine engine design, advanced propulsion technologies, and ship system automation, preparing students for leadership roles in marine engineering.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Senior Marine Engineer, R&D Engineer, Technical Manager
  • Graduate Program in International Trade and Logistics (MA) — 24 months · Korean
    This program provides advanced knowledge in international trade policies, global supply chain management, and logistics innovation, preparing students for leadership roles in international business.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: International Business Consultant, Logistics Director, Trade Policy Analyst
  • Graduate Program in Maritime Law and Policy (MA) — 24 months · Korean
    Advanced study of international maritime law, marine environmental regulations, and maritime security policies, designed for professionals seeking expertise in maritime legal and policy frameworks.
    Field: Maritime Law and Policy
    Career outcomes: Maritime Legal Advisor, International Policy Specialist, Marine Regulator
  • Graduate Program in Ocean System Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced studies in the design and analysis of ocean structures, renewable ocean energy systems, and underwater robotics, focusing on innovative solutions for ocean resource utilization.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Ocean Systems Designer, Offshore Project Engineer, Marine Robotics Specialist
  • Graduate Program in Oceanography (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    This program offers advanced research opportunities in marine ecosystems, climate change impacts on oceans, and ocean resource management, contributing to scientific understanding and conservation.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Oceanographic Researcher, Marine Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist
  • Graduate Program in Maritime Transportation Science (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced study in maritime transportation, focusing on research and development in areas such as intelligent ship systems, maritime safety, and port logistics optimization.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: Maritime Researcher, Shipping Consultant, Port Operations Manager
  • Graduate Program in Marine Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    This program offers in-depth knowledge in marine engine design, advanced propulsion technologies, and ship system automation, preparing students for leadership roles in marine engineering.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Senior Marine Engineer, R&D Engineer, Technical Manager
  • Graduate Program in International Trade and Logistics (MA) — 24 months · Korean
    This program provides advanced knowledge in international trade policies, global supply chain management, and logistics innovation, preparing students for leadership roles in international business.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: International Business Consultant, Logistics Director, Trade Policy Analyst
  • Graduate Program in Maritime Law and Policy (MA) — 24 months · Korean
    Advanced study of international maritime law, marine environmental regulations, and maritime security policies, designed for professionals seeking expertise in maritime legal and policy frameworks.
    Field: Maritime Law and Policy
    Career outcomes: Maritime Legal Advisor, International Policy Specialist, Marine Regulator
  • Graduate Program in Ocean System Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced studies in the design and analysis of ocean structures, renewable ocean energy systems, and underwater robotics, focusing on innovative solutions for ocean resource utilization.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Ocean Systems Designer, Offshore Project Engineer, Marine Robotics Specialist
  • Graduate Program in Oceanography (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    This program offers advanced research opportunities in marine ecosystems, climate change impacts on oceans, and ocean resource management, contributing to scientific understanding and conservation.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Oceanographic Researcher, Marine Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist
  • Graduate Program in Maritime Transportation Science (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced study in maritime transportation, focusing on research and development in areas such as intelligent ship systems, maritime safety, and port logistics optimization.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: Maritime Researcher, Shipping Consultant, Port Operations Manager
  • Graduate Program in Marine Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    This program offers in-depth knowledge in marine engine design, advanced propulsion technologies, and ship system automation, preparing students for leadership roles in marine engineering.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Senior Marine Engineer, R&D Engineer, Technical Manager
  • Graduate Program in International Trade and Logistics (MA) — 24 months · Korean
    This program provides advanced knowledge in international trade policies, global supply chain management, and logistics innovation, preparing students for leadership roles in international business.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: International Business Consultant, Logistics Director, Trade Policy Analyst
  • Graduate Program in Maritime Law and Policy (MA) — 24 months · Korean
    Advanced study of international maritime law, marine environmental regulations, and maritime security policies, designed for professionals seeking expertise in maritime legal and policy frameworks.
    Field: Maritime Law and Policy
    Career outcomes: Maritime Legal Advisor, International Policy Specialist, Marine Regulator
  • Graduate Program in Ocean System Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced studies in the design and analysis of ocean structures, renewable ocean energy systems, and underwater robotics, focusing on innovative solutions for ocean resource utilization.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Ocean Systems Designer, Offshore Project Engineer, Marine Robotics Specialist
  • Graduate Program in Oceanography (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    This program offers advanced research opportunities in marine ecosystems, climate change impacts on oceans, and ocean resource management, contributing to scientific understanding and conservation.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Oceanographic Researcher, Marine Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist
  • Graduate Program in Maritime Transportation Science (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced study in maritime transportation, focusing on research and development in areas such as intelligent ship systems, maritime safety, and port logistics optimization.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: Maritime Researcher, Shipping Consultant, Port Operations Manager

PhD Programs (24)

  • Department of Maritime Law and Policy (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Doctoral studies focusing on complex legal and policy issues in the maritime domain, including environmental regulations, international conventions, and dispute resolution.
    Field: Maritime Law and Policy
    Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, International Organization Expert, Maritime Policy Advisor
  • Department of International Trade and Logistics (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Advanced research into global supply chain resilience, international trade economics, and the strategic management of logistics networks.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: Academic Professor, Economic Analyst, International Business Consultant
  • PhD in International Trade and Logistics (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Doctoral research into advanced theories and practices of international trade, global supply chain resilience, and innovative logistics strategies, contributing to academic and industry knowledge.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: Academic Professor, Economic Analyst, International Business Strategist
  • Department of Oceanography (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral research in physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography, addressing critical issues like climate change impacts and marine resource sustainability.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Environmental Policy Specialist
  • PhD in Oceanography (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    A doctoral program for in-depth scientific investigation into ocean processes, marine biodiversity, and the impact of anthropogenic activities on marine environments, fostering expert researchers.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Lead Oceanographer, Environmental Policy Maker, Research Institute Director
  • PhD in Ocean System Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral program dedicated to pioneering research in ocean system design, deep-sea exploration technologies, and sustainable ocean resource development, addressing global ocean challenges.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Lecturer, Government Advisor
  • PhD in Maritime Transportation Science (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral research focusing on cutting-edge topics in maritime transportation, such as autonomous shipping, big data analytics in logistics, and advanced maritime safety systems.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Maritime Policy Advisor
  • PhD in Marine Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced doctoral research in marine engineering, exploring innovative solutions in ship propulsion, energy efficiency, and smart marine systems for future maritime technologies.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Lead Engineer, R&D Director
  • Department of Maritime Law and Policy (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Doctoral studies focusing on complex legal and policy issues in the maritime domain, including environmental regulations, international conventions, and dispute resolution.
    Field: Maritime Law and Policy
    Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, International Organization Expert, Maritime Policy Advisor
  • Department of International Trade and Logistics (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Advanced research into global supply chain resilience, international trade economics, and the strategic management of logistics networks.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: Academic Professor, Economic Analyst, International Business Consultant
  • PhD in International Trade and Logistics (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Doctoral research into advanced theories and practices of international trade, global supply chain resilience, and innovative logistics strategies, contributing to academic and industry knowledge.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: Academic Professor, Economic Analyst, International Business Strategist
  • Department of Oceanography (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral research in physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography, addressing critical issues like climate change impacts and marine resource sustainability.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Environmental Policy Specialist
  • PhD in Oceanography (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    A doctoral program for in-depth scientific investigation into ocean processes, marine biodiversity, and the impact of anthropogenic activities on marine environments, fostering expert researchers.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Lead Oceanographer, Environmental Policy Maker, Research Institute Director
  • PhD in Ocean System Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral program dedicated to pioneering research in ocean system design, deep-sea exploration technologies, and sustainable ocean resource development, addressing global ocean challenges.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Lecturer, Government Advisor
  • PhD in Maritime Transportation Science (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral research focusing on cutting-edge topics in maritime transportation, such as autonomous shipping, big data analytics in logistics, and advanced maritime safety systems.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Maritime Policy Advisor
  • PhD in Marine Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced doctoral research in marine engineering, exploring innovative solutions in ship propulsion, energy efficiency, and smart marine systems for future maritime technologies.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Lead Engineer, R&D Director
  • Department of Maritime Law and Policy (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Doctoral studies focusing on complex legal and policy issues in the maritime domain, including environmental regulations, international conventions, and dispute resolution.
    Field: Maritime Law and Policy
    Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, International Organization Expert, Maritime Policy Advisor
  • Department of International Trade and Logistics (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Advanced research into global supply chain resilience, international trade economics, and the strategic management of logistics networks.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: Academic Professor, Economic Analyst, International Business Consultant
  • PhD in International Trade and Logistics (PhD) — 36 months · Korean
    Doctoral research into advanced theories and practices of international trade, global supply chain resilience, and innovative logistics strategies, contributing to academic and industry knowledge.
    Field: International Trade and Logistics
    Career outcomes: Academic Professor, Economic Analyst, International Business Strategist
  • Department of Oceanography (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral research in physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography, addressing critical issues like climate change impacts and marine resource sustainability.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Environmental Policy Specialist
  • PhD in Oceanography (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    A doctoral program for in-depth scientific investigation into ocean processes, marine biodiversity, and the impact of anthropogenic activities on marine environments, fostering expert researchers.
    Field: Oceanography
    Career outcomes: Lead Oceanographer, Environmental Policy Maker, Research Institute Director
  • PhD in Ocean System Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral program dedicated to pioneering research in ocean system design, deep-sea exploration technologies, and sustainable ocean resource development, addressing global ocean challenges.
    Field: Ocean Engineering
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Lecturer, Government Advisor
  • PhD in Maritime Transportation Science (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Doctoral research focusing on cutting-edge topics in maritime transportation, such as autonomous shipping, big data analytics in logistics, and advanced maritime safety systems.
    Field: Maritime Transportation
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Maritime Policy Advisor
  • PhD in Marine Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
    Advanced doctoral research in marine engineering, exploring innovative solutions in ship propulsion, energy efficiency, and smart marine systems for future maritime technologies.
    Field: Marine Engineering
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Lead Engineer, R&D Director

Scholarships & Tuition at Korea Maritime & Ocean University

Annual tuition for international students: $2,000 – $6,500/year

✅ Korea Maritime & Ocean University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Korea Maritime & Ocean University

  • National Ranking: #78 in South Korea
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Korea Maritime & Ocean University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Suburban
  • Housing cost: ~$250000/month

Key Highlights

  • Leading national maritime university
  • Specializes in maritime, ocean studies
  • Strong practical skills training
  • Cutting-edge maritime research
  • Busan: ideal port location

Accreditation

  • Ministry of Education of Korea

Fields of Study at Korea Maritime & Ocean University

  • Maritime Science
  • Engineering
  • Logistics
  • Naval Architecture
  • Ocean Engineering

Notable Alumni

  • Kitack Lim
  • Choi Yun-hee
  • Kim Myung-lim
  • Lee Jae-hoon

Frequently Asked Questions about Korea Maritime & Ocean University

What is Korea Maritime & Ocean University?

Korea Maritime & Ocean University is a public university located in Busan, South Korea. It has approximately 8,331 students.

How much does it cost to study at Korea Maritime & Ocean University?

Tuition fees at Korea Maritime & Ocean University for international students range from $2,000 – $6,500/year. Student housing costs approximately $250000/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Korea Maritime & Ocean University?

IELTS minimum: 5.5. TOEFL minimum: 68. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $50.

What language are courses taught in at Korea Maritime & Ocean University?

Courses at Korea Maritime & Ocean University are taught in Korean and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.

How many programs does Korea Maritime & Ocean University offer?

Korea Maritime & Ocean University offers 54 programs: 12 Bachelor's, 18 Master's, and 24 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Korea Maritime & Ocean University ranked?

#78 in South Korea.

Does Korea Maritime & Ocean University offer scholarships?

Yes, Korea Maritime & Ocean University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Korea Maritime & Ocean University provide visa support?

Yes, Korea Maritime & Ocean University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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