Founded in 1909, Shanghai Maritime University is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Shanghai (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants). Officially recognized by the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Shanghai Maritime University (SMU) is a large coeducational Chinese higher education institution. Shanghai Maritime University (SMU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees in several areas of study. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. SMU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, as well as administrative services.