
Course in Arctic Routes and New Trade Lanes
The Course in Arctic Routes and New Trade Lanes Explains how melting ice is opening new trade routes in the Arctic and what sailing them involves. You will study the Northern Sea Route and the Northwest Passage, the Polar Code, ic
Prior Knowledge Assessment
These are the skills this programme builds. Tick the ones you already have and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is really for you.
What is the Course in Arctic Routes and New Trade Lanes?
The Course in Arctic Routes and New Trade Lanes
Explains how melting ice is opening new trade routes in the Arctic and what sailing them involves. You will study the Northern Sea Route and the Northwest Passage, the Polar Code, ice-class ships, operational and environmental risks and the geopolitical and economic context of these routes.
Key advantages
- A strategic topic: Routes that could change trade between continents.
- Polar regulation: The Polar Code explained in practical terms.
- Real risks: Ice, extreme cold, isolation and the environment.
- Geopolitics: The interests of Arctic states and global trade.
- Ideal complement: Pairs well with the Master’s in Polar Exploration and Ice Navigation.
Programme highlights
- Know the routes: Study the Northern Sea Route and the Northwest Passage.
- Apply the Polar Code: Requirements for ships and crews.
- Assess risk: Analyse ice, weather and isolation.
- Weigh the economics: Compare distances, costs and transit times.
- Understand the geopolitics: Grasp the international context.
- Explore the shipping routes of the future in the Arctic.
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
The Arctic and Climate Change
- Geography of the Arctic
- Changes in sea ice
- Navigation seasons
- Future projections
- Environmental impact of shipping
Arctic Routes
- The Northern Sea Route
- The Northwest Passage
- The Transpolar Route
- Current traffic
- Ports and support services
The Polar Code and Ice-Class Ships
- Structure of the Polar Code
- Polar Ship Certificate and manual
- IACS polar classes
- Crew training
- Icebreaker escort
Risks and Safety
- Navigating in ice
- Extreme cold and icing
- Communications and isolation
- Search and rescue
- Pollution prevention
Economics, Geopolitics and Case Study
- Distance and transit time comparison
- Costs, insurance and fees
- Governance and the Arctic Council
- Strategic interests
- Case study: planning a voyage
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Deck officers and masters: interested in polar navigation Shipping company professionals: studying new routes Logistics and trade analysts: in international trade Marine insurance professionals: assessing polar risk International relations students: with an interest in the Arctic
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.








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Learning Outcomes
- 01Describe Arctic routes
- 02Apply the Polar Code
- 03Know ice-class ships
- 04Assess risks
- 05Analyse the economics
- 06Understand the geopolitics
Career Opportunities
Entry Requirements
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry profile: A nautical, technical, economics or international relations background, or experience in the maritime sector. Language: A good working level of English to follow classes and materials. Technical requirements: A computer with a stable internet connection, an up-to-date browser and a webcam for live sessions and project presentations. Admissions process: Online application, profile review and a short interview with the academic team. We confirm your start date when you enquire.
Frequently Asked Questions
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