No borders
Eliminates boundaries in maritime education and certification — learn and qualify from anywhere on Earth.
The world's first decentralized maritime university
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A global educational and technological ecosystem for the sea.
The world's first fully decentralized, blockchain-based maritime education platform. IMU unites Web3, AI, VR/AR and DAO with Learn-to-Earn incentives — training professionals to the highest international standards: STCW, IMO, EQF and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Aligned to global standards
STCW
IMO
EQF
UN SDGs
Why IMU
A new course for maritime education.
Innovation built in
Brings Web3, AI and DAO into a traditional industry — transparent, verifiable and community-governed.
Ready for what's next
Prepares professionals for green, digital and offshore technologies shaping the future of shipping.
Learn-to-Earn
Creates real economic incentives for seafarers — earn tokens as you learn, validate skills and grow.
About the university
Building a global maritime community.
We provide accessible, technologically advanced and internationally recognized education that strengthens the safety, efficiency and sustainability of the maritime industry.
Our mission
To form a global maritime community by providing accessible, technologically advanced and internationally recognized education — enhancing the safety, efficiency and sustainability of the maritime industry.
Our tasks
Train highly qualified specialists at all levels; develop innovative programs meeting STCW and the latest technologies (green tech, digitalization, cybersecurity); conduct applied research in maritime technology, safety and sustainability; build a global network of regional hubs and partner centers; promote international recognition of digital qualifications; and ensure equal opportunity and diversity in the profession.
Core values
- Innovation — continuous use of blockchain, AI, VR/AR and IoT across learning, certification and management.
- Decentralization — students, graduates, faculty and shipowners govern the university through a DAO.
- Globality & inclusivity — overcoming geographical, cultural and socio-economic barriers.
- Transparency & trust — immutable qualifications via NFT diplomas and SBT skills.
- Partnership with industry — close cooperation with shipowners, classification societies and regulators.
Programs & governance
IMU implements a unique Learn-to-Earn system. Students receive tokens for successful studies, skills validation and active community participation. Tokens can pay for further courses, power DAO voting, or be exchanged for other benefits.
The program creates additional economic incentives for talented students from developing countries, and special programs encourage women and underrepresented groups in the maritime profession.
Admission rules
- Recognition of prior education and qualifications.
- Assessment of the candidate's ability to succeed in the chosen program.
- Transparent and non-discriminatory throughout.
- For programs leading to Certificates of Competency, STCW and national administration requirements apply.
Examinations & assessment
- Online testing.
- Practical exams on VR/AR simulators and at partner centers.
- Project defenses.
- Appeal procedures approved by the University Senate.
IMU conducts applied research in maritime technologies, shipping safety, sustainable development and green technologies, and digitalization and cybersecurity at sea.
Categories of academic & research staff
- Professors of Practice — active captains, chief engineers and port operators.
- Research Fellows — researchers working in priority areas.
- Assistant, Associate & Full Professors — full-time faculty with confirmed academic achievements.
Appointments are made through an open international competition, decided by the Executive Board on the recommendation of the relevant department and in agreement with the University Senate.
Begin your voyage
Reserve your place in the founding class.
Enter your email to receive admissions updates, scholarship news and early access to our Learn-to-Earn programs. No spam — just your route to a maritime career.
Early-access scholarships
STCW / IMO aligned
Learn-to-Earn tokens