ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management is an advanced three-year, 360-credit programme designed to equip learners with comprehensive knowledge, strategic insight, and practical skills in the maritime and shipping industry. This qualification provides a robust foundation for learners aspiring to excel in maritime operations, logistics, port management, shipping administration, and related leadership roles.
Learners will gain expertise in maritime law, shipping operations, logistics management, international trade, port and vessel management, and environmental compliance within the shipping sector. The programme integrates theoretical instruction with practical applications, including case studies, operational simulations, and applied projects, ensuring learners develop both analytical and decision-making skills essential for effective maritime management.
The programme caters to both fresh learners and experienced professionals. Fresh learners will acquire foundational knowledge in maritime operations, shipping regulations, and logistics management, progressing to advanced strategic and operational competencies over the three-year period. Experienced professionals can leverage their prior knowledge and industry experience to enhance leadership capabilities, optimise operations, and contribute to strategic decision-making in global shipping and maritime enterprises.
Upon successful completion, learners will be prepared for senior and specialised roles within the maritime sector, including shipping management, port operations, logistics coordination, maritime consultancy, and regulatory compliance. This qualification equips learners with the analytical, operational, and leadership competencies required to address complex challenges in the maritime industry, meet global industry standards, and pursue impactful careers internationally.
Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management, consists of 36 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Foundations of Maritime & Shipping Management
- Introduction to Maritime & Shipping Industry
- Principles of Shipping Operations
- International Trade and Logistics Fundamentals
- Maritime Law and Regulatory Frameworks
- Port Operations and Management Basics
- Ship Types, Classification, and Vessel Management
- Maritime Safety and Security Principles
- Environmental Sustainability in Shipping
- Supply Chain and Transport Management
- Principles of Risk Management in Maritime Operations
- Introduction to Maritime Economics
- Professional Ethics and Communication in Shipping
Year 2 – Applied Maritime Operations & Management
- Advanced Shipping Operations and Planning
- Vessel Chartering and Freight Management
- Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Integration
- Port Management and Terminal Operations
- Maritime Insurance and Risk Mitigation
- Crisis Management and Emergency Response in Shipping
- Shipping Finance and Budgeting
- Environmental Compliance and Marine Pollution Control
- Technology and Digitalisation in Maritime Industry
- Project Management in Maritime Operations
- Human Resource Management in Shipping Organisations
- Applied Case Studies and Operational Simulations
Year 3 – Strategic Leadership & Advanced Maritime Management
- Strategic Management in Maritime & Shipping Industry
- International Maritime Policies and Governance
- Maritime Trade Law and Contract Management
- Leadership and Decision-Making in Shipping Operations
- Advanced Risk and Safety Management in Maritime Sector
- Port and Terminal Strategic Planning
- Global Supply Chain Management for Maritime Trade
- Innovation and Emerging Technologies in Shipping
- Sustainability and Climate Change Adaptation in Shipping
- Research Methods for Maritime Management
- Independent Research Project in Maritime & Shipping Management
- Capstone Project: Applied Maritime & Shipping Strategy
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management 360 Credits – Three Years:
Year 1 – Foundations of Maritime & Shipping Management
1. Introduction to Maritime & Shipping Industry
- Explain the structure, functions, and scope of the global maritime and shipping industry.
- Identify key stakeholders and their roles in shipping operations.
2. Principles of Shipping Operations
- Describe core shipping operations including vessel management, cargo handling, and voyage planning.
- Apply operational procedures to ensure safe and efficient shipping activities.
3. International Trade and Logistics Fundamentals
- Analyse principles of international trade and global logistics networks.
- Apply basic logistics strategies to shipping operations.
4. Maritime Law and Regulatory Frameworks
- Explain key national and international maritime laws and conventions.
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements in shipping operations.
5. Port Operations and Management Basics
- Describe the functions and operational processes of ports and terminals.
- Apply basic management techniques for efficient port operations.
6. Ship Types, Classification, and Vessel Management
- Identify different types of ships and their classifications.
- Understand vessel management practices, including maintenance, safety, and operational planning.
7. Maritime Safety and Security Principles
- Recognise safety and security risks in maritime operations.
- Apply standard safety protocols and security measures onboard vessels and within ports.
8. Environmental Sustainability in Shipping
- Analyse environmental impacts of shipping activities.
- Propose strategies to minimise pollution and promote sustainability.
9. Supply Chain and Transport Management
- Understand basic supply chain processes in maritime logistics.
- Apply transport management principles to optimise shipping operations.
10. Principles of Risk Management in Maritime Operations
- Identify operational and strategic risks in shipping.
- Apply basic risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
11. Introduction to Maritime Economics
- Analyse economic factors affecting global shipping and trade.
- Apply economic concepts to decision-making in maritime operations.
12. Professional Ethics and Communication in Shipping
- Apply ethical principles in maritime management and operations.
- Develop effective communication strategies within shipping organisations.
Year 2 – Applied Maritime Operations & Management
1. Advanced Shipping Operations and Planning
- Develop comprehensive shipping operational plans.
- Implement efficient vessel scheduling and cargo handling procedures.
2. Vessel Chartering and Freight Management
- Understand chartering contracts and freight arrangements.
- Apply principles of freight management and commercial operations.
3. Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Integration
- Integrate supply chain components into maritime operations.
- Optimise logistics processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
4. Port Management and Terminal Operations
- Apply advanced management techniques to port and terminal operations.
- Ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in terminal operations.
5. Maritime Insurance and Risk Mitigation
- Analyse maritime insurance policies and risk coverage.
- Apply risk mitigation strategies to reduce operational and financial exposure.
6. Crisis Management and Emergency Response in Shipping
- Develop emergency response plans for shipping operations.
- Coordinate crisis management procedures during maritime incidents.
7. Shipping Finance and Budgeting
- Prepare and manage financial plans for maritime operations.
- Analyse cost structures, revenue streams, and budgeting techniques.
8. Environmental Compliance and Marine Pollution Control
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
- Implement pollution prevention measures and environmental management strategies.
9. Technology and Digitalisation in Maritime Industry
- Evaluate emerging technologies in shipping and maritime operations.
- Apply digital tools to enhance operational efficiency and monitoring.
10. Project Management in Maritime Operations
- Plan and execute maritime projects effectively.
- Monitor progress and ensure alignment with operational objectives.
11. Human Resource Management in Shipping Organisations
- Apply HR management principles within maritime organisations.
- Develop strategies for team leadership, performance management, and workforce development.
12. Applied Case Studies and Operational Simulations
- Analyse real-world maritime case studies to solve operational challenges.
- Apply theoretical knowledge in simulated operational environments.
Year 3 – Strategic Leadership & Advanced Maritime Management
1. Strategic Management in Maritime & Shipping Industry
- Develop and implement strategic plans for shipping organisations.
- Analyse market trends and competitive factors in global shipping.
2. International Maritime Policies and Governance
- Evaluate international policies and governance frameworks.
- Apply regulatory requirements to organisational strategies.
3. Maritime Trade Law and Contract Management
- Interpret trade laws, shipping contracts, and agreements.
- Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and dispute resolution practices.
4. Leadership and Decision-Making in Shipping Operations
- Apply leadership theories to operational and strategic decision-making.
- Lead teams effectively during complex maritime operations.
5. Advanced Risk and Safety Management in Maritime Sector
- Develop comprehensive risk management and safety strategies.
- Implement proactive measures to mitigate operational and environmental risks.
6. Port and Terminal Strategic Planning
- Plan long-term strategies for efficient and sustainable port operations.
- Optimise terminal layouts, resource allocation, and operational workflows.
7. Global Supply Chain Management for Maritime Trade
- Manage integrated supply chains across international shipping networks.
- Analyse logistics performance and propose improvements for global operations.
8. Innovation and Emerging Technologies in Shipping
- Evaluate the impact of emerging technologies and innovations.
- Apply innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness.
9. Sustainability and Climate Change Adaptation in Shipping
- Analyse climate change impacts on shipping operations.
- Develop strategies to enhance sustainability and resilience in maritime activities.
10. Research Methods for Maritime Management
- Apply research methodologies to maritime and shipping studies.
- Collect, analyse, and interpret data to support evidence-based decision-making.
11. Independent Research Project in Maritime & Shipping Management
- Conduct an independent research project aligned with industry challenges.
- Present findings with practical recommendations for maritime operations.
12. Capstone Project: Applied Maritime & Shipping Strategy
- Integrate knowledge and skills from all study units into a comprehensive applied project.
- Demonstrate strategic planning, operational execution, and leadership in maritime scenarios.
Completion of the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management prepares learners to advance into senior, strategic, and specialised roles within the global maritime and shipping industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, operational skills, and leadership capabilities required to manage complex maritime operations, optimise supply chains, and ensure regulatory compliance across international shipping networks.
1. Maritime Operations Manager
- Oversee day-to-day vessel operations and port activities.
- Coordinate logistics, crew management, and cargo handling efficiently.
2. Shipping and Logistics Coordinator
- Manage international shipping schedules and freight logistics.
- Optimise transport routes and supply chain operations for cost and time efficiency.
3. Port and Terminal Manager
- Lead port operations, terminal management, and resource allocation.
- Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
4. Maritime Safety and Compliance Officer
- Develop and implement safety protocols for vessels and port operations.
- Monitor adherence to international maritime laws and environmental regulations.
5. Fleet and Vessel Manager
- Manage vessel maintenance, performance, and operational efficiency.
- Implement strategic planning for fleet optimisation and resource management.
6. Crisis and Emergency Response Coordinator
- Lead emergency response operations for maritime incidents.
- Develop and execute contingency plans to minimise operational disruptions.
7. Shipping Consultancy and Advisory Specialist
- Provide expert advice on shipping operations, regulatory compliance, and logistics management.
- Analyse market trends and propose solutions to improve operational efficiency.
8. Environmental and Sustainability Officer in Maritime Sector
- Develop and implement sustainability initiatives for shipping operations.
- Monitor environmental impacts and promote climate-resilient practices in maritime logistics.
Even if a centre is already registered with ICTQual AB, it must meet specific requirements to deliver theICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management. These standards ensure the quality and consistency of training, assessment, and learner support.
1. Approval and Accreditation
- Centres must be formally approved by ICTQual AB to deliver and assess this qualification.
- Centres are required to adhere to ICTQual AB’s quality assurance, monitoring, and verification procedures.
- Policies and procedures must meet international standards in maritime education and management training.
2. Qualified Teaching and Assessment Staff
- Tutors and assessors should hold relevant Level 6 qualifications in maritime management, shipping operations, logistics, or related disciplines.
- Staff must have practical experience in shipping operations, port management, maritime logistics, or regulatory compliance.
- Continuous professional development (CPD) must be provided to ensure staff remain current with industry best practices.
3. Learning and Assessment Resources
- Access to textbooks, research materials, digital platforms, and applied project resources.
- Availability of assessment tools including assignments, simulation exercises, research projects, and capstone projects.
- Resources must support both theoretical learning and practical applications in maritime and shipping management.
4. Facilities and Learning Environment
- Provision of classrooms, online platforms, or blended learning setups suitable for theoretical and practical instruction.
- Access to IT infrastructure, maritime simulation tools, and research databases.
- Facilities for applied projects, operational simulations, and case studies.
5. Assessment and Quality Assurance Systems
- Robust internal assessment and verification processes aligned with ICTQual AB standards.
- Appointment of qualified internal verifiers to ensure fairness, consistency, and validity in assessments.
- Participation in external quality assurance monitoring as required by ICTQual AB.
6. Learner Support Services
- Academic guidance, mentoring, and career advice for all learners.
- Support for learners with additional learning needs or accessibility requirements.
- Clear procedures for feedback, complaints, and dispute resolution.
7. Record Keeping and Compliance
- Accurate maintenance of learner records, assessment evidence, and verification reports.
- Compliance with data protection, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
- Timely reporting to ICTQual AB regarding learner progress, assessment outcomes, and programme updates.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This route is designed for learners who are new to the maritime and shipping sector:
- Admission: Learners enrol in the programme at an ICTQual AB Approved Training Centre.
- Training: Learners complete the full three-year, 360-credit programme, covering all 36 study units, including theoretical instruction, applied projects, case studies, and simulation exercises.
- Assessment: Learners complete assignments, operational simulations, research projects, and a final capstone project aligned with the programme learning outcomes.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of all assessments, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
This route is for learners with prior relevant work experience in maritime operations, shipping management, logistics, or related fields:
- Eligibility: Learners should have 6 years of verified experience in maritime operations, shipping management, port logistics, or related sectors. Experience in supervisory or managerial roles is advantageous.
- Assessment of Competence: Learners are assessed to determine whether their existing knowledge and skills align with the programme’s learning outcomes, potentially reducing the need to complete the full three-year programme.
- Evidence Submission: Learners submit documentation of prior work experience, including job roles, responsibilities, and tasks aligned with course learning outcomes.
- Knowledge and Understanding: Centres ensure learners are familiar with all course learning outcomes. Any skills gaps may be addressed through targeted assignments or applied learning exercises.
- Certification: Upon successful verification of competence, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management without completing the full programme.