The PhD in Maritime Mobility is a research-intensive doctoral program that focuses on advancing knowledge and innovation in maritime transportation, mobility systems, and sustainable marine logistics. The program provides opportunities for original research in areas such as smart shipping, autonomous vessels, maritime transportation networks, port and logistics systems, intelligent mobility technologies, maritime data analytics, navigation systems, and sustainable transport solutions. Doctoral candidates investigate complex challenges related to the efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible movement of goods and passengers across maritime environments. Through advanced research, system modeling, policy analysis, and dissertation work, students contribute to the development of next-generation maritime mobility solutions that support global trade and transportation. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, maritime administrations, port authorities, shipping companies, logistics organizations, and maritime technology industries.
NOTE: The university may have additional program-specific eligibility requirements. It is recommended to verify these on the official university website.
Extra Notes
1. Basic Qualifications
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Both parents are non-Korean nationals, and the applicant holds foreign nationality.
A Korean national residing abroad or a foreign national who has completed their entire education abroad, where the education system is equivalent to Korea’s 12-year primary and secondary education and university curriculum.
2. Academic Qualifications
Master’s Program Applicants: Must hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized as higher education.
Doctoral Program Applicants: Must hold a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized as higher education.
※ Applicants who are expected to graduate by August 28, 2026, may also apply. Those who have not yet graduated at the time of application must submit a Certificate of Expected Graduation. The official degree certificate (or diploma) and final academic transcript must be submitted no later than August 28, 2026.
3. Language Requirement
(Must meet at least one of the following criteria)
Test
Eligibility Criteria
TOEFL iBT
68
TOEIC
600
NEW TEPS
279
IELTS
5.5
TOPIK
Level 3
Applicants from English-speaking countries (USA, UK, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland) are exempt from this requirement.
Language proficiency test scores must be valid as of the application deadline.
Applicants who receive a recommendation (Language Requirement Exemption) from their prospective supervisor at KMOU may apply without submitting a language proficiency test score.