IIT Madras Launches World's First MBA in Digital Maritime & Supply Chain

MUMBAI: The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has introduced a groundbreaking 24-month MBA program in Digital Maritime & Supply Chain, the first of its kind worldwide. Developed collaboratively by the Departments of Management Studies and Ocean Engineering at IIT Madras, along with industry partner i-maritime Consultancy, this program aims to equip professionals globally with the necessary skills to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape of maritime trade and supply chain management.
The program is open to applicants holding a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 60% marks and at least two years of full-time work experience.The admission process involves an online IIT Madras Admission Test, followed by personal interviews for shortlisted candidates. Applications are currently being accepted for the first batch, set to commence in September 2024.
Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, emphasized the program's goal of providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of how digital technologies can optimize operations and drive strategic growth in the modern maritime and supply chain industries. The program offers a unique blend of online learning and on-campus immersion modules, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience while maintaining flexibility for working professionals.
Prof. K. Murali, Chairperson of the MBA (Digital Maritime and Supply Chain) Program and Dean (Faculty) at IIT Madras, highlighted the program's tailored approach for working professionals, seamlessly combining on-campus collaboration with the convenience of live online classes.
Prof. M. Thenmozhi, Head of the Department of Management Studies at IIT Madras, further elaborated on the program's structure, which addresses the challenges of integrating digital technologies into maritime and supply chain industries, such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and blockchain implementation.
The MBA program, which can be extended to four years, consists of 900 hours of classroom sessions and project work, totaling 192 credits. Participants benefit from a rigorous curriculum that includes six on-campus immersion modules and extensive access to IIT Madras' learning resources, including the Digital Maritime Library.
Ramesh Singhal, the MBA (Digital Maritime and Supply Chain) Program Director, emphasized the transformative nature of the program, stating that it is meticulously designed to equip professionals with cutting-edge skills in digital technologies, enhancing their marketability and global job mobility.
Key features of the program include blended learning, IIT Madras Alumni status, innovative pedagogy incorporating AI, ML, IoT, and Blockchain technologies, career support, and global networking opportunities. The program fee is Rs 9 lakh, payable in instalments, with scholarships covering up to 50% of the course fee available. The program is also eligible for bank loans.