Italy launches master’s degree to shape future of yachting media
The University of Macerata has announced the launch of Italy’s first university master’s programme dedicated to marketing, communication and journalism in the nautical sector. The initiative marks a growing partnership between academia and industry aimed at addressing a shortage of skilled professionals in one of Italy’s strongest export sectors.
Launching in the 2025/2026 academic year, the Level I Master in Marketing, Communication and Journalism in the Nautical Sector (MCGN) combines academic expertise with practical industry input. The one-year course is limited to 40 students, beginning in April 2026 and running through April 2027. Teaching will follow a blended format, with in-person sessions complemented by online learning. It will be in Italian, but, depending on the the student intake, an English version may also be considered.
The programme was conceived by Fabio Petrone, director of PressMare, in collaboration with Maurizio Minossi, president of the Marche Yachting and Cruising Association. The idea was presented to John Francis McCourt, rector of the University of Macerata, as a way to create a university-level course dedicated to training new professional figures in nautical marketing and communication.
The project was developed under the direction of professor Elena Cedrola, head of the Department of Economics and Law, with contributions from Roberta Sabatini of Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard, Tünde Harkácsi of Videoworks, Virginia De Carlo of Palumbo Superyacht, and communication strategist Massimo Pigliapoco of Tonidigrigio.
Italy currently holds more than 50 per cent of the global market share for delivered superyachts and employs over 157,000 people across the sector. The MCGN master’s programme responds to this expansion by equipping students with skills in marketing, brand communication, digital media and nautical journalism.
Students will undertake 239 hours of coursework and 250 hours of internship or project work within shipyards, supply-chain companies, media organisations or sector associations, in Italy or abroad. Further details are on the programme are due to be released shortly.
