Combining academic excellence with hands-on training, CyMA equips students for a dynamic maritime industry
In recent years, maritime studies have become an increasingly attractive option for young people around the world, drawn to the dynamic and vital role the maritime industry plays in the global economy.
In countries such as the UK and Norway, renowned for their long-standing maritime traditions, universities and academies offer highly specialised courses that are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the shipping industry.
The UK, for instance, boasts institutions like the University of Plymouth and Southampton Solent University, which offer degrees in maritime studies with a strong emphasis on sustainability, maritime law and shipping management.
Here on the island, the Cyprus Maritime Academy (CyMA), part of Intercollege, stands out by blending theoretical and practical instruction to prepare students for the challenges of a maritime career.
According to Angelos Iacovides, head of marketing and communications at Intercollege, the programmes on offer at CyMA stand out for their rigorous approach and practical relevance.
“We combine academic excellence with hands-on training, ensuring our students not only understand maritime theory but also understand how to apply it,” Iacovides explained.
The academy is one of the few in the region to offer both a bachelor’s degree from Intercollege and a Certificate of Competence issued by the deputy shipping ministry. The dual qualification enables graduates to be both academically and professionally prepared for the global maritime sector.
The academy’s adherence to International Maritime Organisation (IMO) standards ensures students graduate with internationally recognised qualifications, making them competitive in a range of maritime roles, both at sea and onshore.
One key aspect of CyMA’s success is its ability to evolve alongside the maritime sector.
“We have recently introduced new modules to our programme, reflecting the changing needs of the industry,” Iacovides pointed out. These additions include topics such as Port and Terminal Management, Shipbroking, and Liner Operations, broadening the scope of knowledge for students and preparing them for a range of career paths within the maritime world. Furthermore, the academy has expanded its offering with vocational short courses, essential for professional development, including Basic Training in
Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations and Security Awareness.
Collaboration with the maritime industry is another pillar of CyMA’s training model. The academy’s board of directors includes representatives from leading shipping companies and maritime service providers, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and up to date.
“Our board plays a key advisory role, not only helping shape the curriculum but also providing students with crucial onboard training placements,” Iacovides said, stressing the importance of CyMA’s industry ties.
“Placements are vital, as they give students hands-on experience and often lead to employment opportunities after graduation.”
Practical training is integral to the maritime programs at CyMA, designed to immerse students in the realities of maritime life. From the first year, student-cadets engage in courses such as Security Awareness and Basic Training, gaining skills in survival techniques, firefighting, and first aid — essential for responding to emergencies at sea.
As they progress, students undergo onboard practical training, where they spend six months working on merchant vessels. This experience gives them a direct understanding of daily operations, vessel management, and the unpredictable nature of maritime environments.
“Our training ensures students are not only technically competent but also adaptable to the challenges they will face at sea,” Iacovides said.
Advanced training in the later stages of the course further prepares students for leadership roles within the industry. Senior-year students receive instruction in advanced systems such as the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and participate in simulation training using state-of-the-art technology.
“We ensure all our students complete the required 12-month sea service, which is often a pathway to employment,” Iacovides continued.
“They typically start as third officers, moving up through the ranks to second officers, chief officers, and eventually captain,” Iacovides said, adding that opportunities don’t end there.
“Graduates are also well-equipped for shore-based positions such as marine superintendents, shipbrokers, and port operations managers. The flexibility of the programme means that graduates can choose to remain at sea or transition to roles in maritime law, education, or logistics.”
In addition to its focus on practical skills, CyMA is also attentive to the changing technological landscape of the maritime industry. The academy regularly updates its training programmes to reflect new developments, such as advancements in bridge management systems and the increasing importance of sustainability in shipping.
“We are working closely with industry leaders to introduce new short courses that address current trends, including green shipping and the use of alternative fuels,” Iacovides added.
Despite these advances, there is still room for growth, particularly as far as sustainability education is concerned. Although CyMA is working on introducing more content focused on environmental issues, the current curriculum already covers key industry requirements, ensuring that students are well-versed in traditional maritime practices.
However, the academy recognises the need to stay ahead of future regulatory changes, particularly those related to decarbonisation and emissions reduction, which are becoming increasingly important in global shipping.
The success of CyMA graduates is reflected in the positive feedback from employers, who regularly commend the preparedness and professionalism of the academy’s alumni.
“Our graduates consistently meet the high standards expected in the industry, and many are employed by the companies where they completed their sea service,” Iacovides said. The academy’s focus on practical experience, combined with its strong industry ties, ensures that students are not only equipped with the necessary skills but also well-connected to potential employers.
Moreover, the academy has been making strides in promoting diversity within the maritime sector. Iacovides highlighted the growing demand for female seafarers and noted the positive reception female cadets have received.
“The industry is increasingly recognising the talent and capabilities of our female graduates,” he said, reflecting broader trends towards inclusivity in the traditionally male-dominated maritime field.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the role of academic institutions like CyMA becomes ever more critical.
“Our graduates leave here ready to face the future of maritime, whether at sea or in shore-based roles,” Iacovides concluded, stressing the academy’s ongoing commitment to excellence in maritime education
