The article discusses approaches to developing the content of the program “English for Specific Purposes” (ESP) taking English for maritime specialties as an example. As part of the work, the concept of “professionogram” is clarified and the professionograms of the representatives of the command and enlisted personnel of the crew are compiled on the basis of the professional standard. A comparative analysis of the professionograms was carried out in accordance with the job descriptions of specialists, which, in turn, determines the difference in the content of the ESP program modules. The analysis of the language functions, which are necessary for effective communication in the course of professional activity by representatives of various maritime specialties, is presented. The study examines speech patterns presented in the form of lexicograms consisting of the constant grammatical core and a variable lexical part. Examples of lexograms that form the basis of the bank of phrases included in the standard maritime navigation vocabulary are given.The language functions, which are necessary for the implementation of professional activities in various marine specialties, are analyzed. Some examples of lexograms are provided. The comparative analysis of professionograms is carried out in accordance with the job descriptions of specialists, which, in turn, determines the difference in the content of the ESP program modules.