Batumi Navigation Teaching University
Maritime-specialized private university on the Black Sea
About
Batumi Navigation Teaching University (BNTU) is a specialized maritime university located in Batumi, Georgia. Originating from Black Sea navigation courses founded in 1929 and reorganized into a modern private institution in 1999, BNTU focuses on preparing deck officers, marine engineers, port managers, and logistics professionals for the global shipping industry. The university is authorized by the Georgian National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (NCEQE) and cooperates closely with the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia to deliver STCW-compliant training.
The campus houses full-mission bridge and engine simulators, ECDIS and GMDSS labs, marine engineering workshops, logistics innovation hubs, and a dedicated training vessel for sea practice. Beyond maritime disciplines, BNTU offers bachelor's and master's programs in business, law, IT, tourism, and public administration that support the wider Blue Economy. Partnerships with Batumi and Poti ports, shipping agencies, and European maritime academies provide students with cadetships, Erasmus+ exchanges, and dual-degree research opportunities.
College Highlights
College Highlights
Key Accreditations & Recognitions
Key Accreditations & Recognitions
National Accreditation
Authorized by the Georgian National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (NCEQE) and licensed by the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia to conduct STCW training for deck and engine officers.
Global Recognition
Programs aligned with IMO conventions, European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), and international maritime standards—enabling graduates to pursue Certificates of Competency recognized by EU flag states, India, and other maritime administrations.
Comprehensive Facilities
Full-mission bridge simulators, ECDIS/GMDSS labs, marine engine workshops, logistics & IT labs, hostel accommodation, and dedicated STCW refresher centers supporting cadet readiness.
Specialties
Specialties
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Programs
Nautical Science & Ship Navigation (BSc)
Duration: 4 years (3 years academic + 12 months sea practice)
Medium: English & Georgian cohorts
Faculty: Master mariners, navigation instructors, ECDIS/GMDSS trainers
Eligibility: High school with Physics & Mathematics; eyesight & medical fitness per STCW; English proficiency (IELTS 5.5 or BNTU test)
Recognition: IMO/STCW compliant, Georgian Maritime Transport Agency
Marine Engineering & Ship Power Plants (BEng)
Duration: 4 years
Medium: English & Georgian
Faculty: Chief engineers, electrical officers, engine simulator coaches
Eligibility: High school with Physics/Mathematics; medical fitness per STCW; English proficiency
Maritime Logistics & Port Management (BBA)
Duration: 4 years
Medium: English & Georgian
Faculty: Port operations managers, freight forwarders, customs & law specialists
Eligibility: High school diploma; Mathematics/Business background preferred; English proficiency for international applicants
Postgraduate Programs
Maritime Transport Management & Logistics (MSc)
Duration: 2 years (modular & evening formats)
Medium: English & Georgian
Eligibility: Bachelor’s in maritime, engineering, business, or law; 1 year industry experience preferred; English proficiency
University Highlights
- Nearly 100 years of maritime education legacy with a modern private governance model.
- Specialized programs in navigation, marine engineering, logistics, business, law, IT, and tourism sustaining the Blue Economy.
- STCW-compliant bridge and engine simulators, ECDIS/GMDSS labs, and a dedicated training vessel for cadet practice.
- Strategic partnerships with Batumi & Poti ports, shipping agencies, and offshore companies for internships and employment.
- Erasmus+ and bilateral agreements with European maritime academies enabling exchanges and dual degrees.
- Dedicated international office assisting with visas, medical exams, accommodation, and seafarer documentation.
Fee Structure
| Course | Year Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Medicine (MBBS / MD) | 4,000 USD per year |
| Business Administration (BBA) | 2,250 USD per year |
| Tourism & Hospitality Management | 2,250 USD per year |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 2,250 USD per year |
| Other Undergraduate Programs | 2,250 - 3,000 USD per year |
| Other Postgraduate Programs | 2,250 - 3,000 USD per year |
Note: Fees are indicative and subject to change based on university updates and currency fluctuations. Additional costs such as visa, travel, accommodation, food, textbooks, and personal expenses are not included. Hostel accommodation and other facilities are available at additional costs.
Campus Photos
Student Reviews & Ratings
Share Your Experience
Help other students by sharing your experience at this university
Write a ReviewRajesh Kumar
December 2024"BNTU focuses on hands-on maritime training. The bridge simulators feel like real vessels, and the university helped me secure my cadetship with a shipping agency in Poti. Living in Batumi is affordable and the support team is responsive."
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
What are the admission requirements for the Navigation and Marine Engineering programs?
Applicants need 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Mathematics, and English, minimum 50% aggregate, STCW-compliant medical fitness (including eyesight/hearing), and proof of English proficiency (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL, or BNTU in-house test). International students must submit passport copies and be eligible for Georgian visa/residence permits.
Is the maritime degree from BNTU recognized internationally?
Yes. Batumi Navigation Teaching University is authorized by NCEQE and the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia. Its navigation and engineering curricula align with IMO/STCW requirements, enabling graduates to obtain Certificates of Competency accepted by European, Asian, and Middle Eastern maritime administrations.
What documents are required during admission?
Submit notarized academic transcripts (10th & 12th), passport copy, birth certificate, medical fitness & eyesight certificate (per STCW), police clearance, proof of English proficiency, six passport photos, and financial support affidavit. Documents must be translated into Georgian and apostilled/legalized.
Fees & Living
What is the average cost of living in Batumi for students?
Students generally spend 320–420 USD per month covering shared accommodation (140–200 USD), meals, public transport, utilities, and personal expenses. BNTU hostels and nearby apartments are affordable, and many cadets share housing close to the port.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
Yes. BNTU provides merit scholarships (10–30% tuition waiver), Erasmus+ mobility stipends, and cadet sponsorships from partner shipping companies. Eligibility is based on GPA, sea-practice performance, and participation in research or community projects.