ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management
The ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management is a comprehensive two-year programme designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required in the dynamic maritime and shipping industry. Spanning 240 credits, this qualification blends theoretical insights with hands-on learning, preparing learners for the challenges of modern shipping operations, logistics, and management.
This programme is ideal for both freshers entering the maritime sector and professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects. Learners develop a deep understanding of global shipping practices, maritime regulations, port management, logistics coordination, and strategic operational planning. The course also emphasises leadership, decision-making, and risk management skills, enabling learners to take on supervisory or managerial roles within the industry.
Upon completion, learners gain the ability to manage shipping operations efficiently, optimise supply chain processes, and ensure compliance with international maritime standards. Career opportunities include positions such as shipping operations coordinator, port manager, maritime logistics officer, and supply chain analyst, among others. The diploma enhances employability by combining industry-relevant knowledge with practical competencies, making learners highly competitive in both local and international markets.
Key benefits of this programme include the development of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in maritime contexts, mastery of operational and strategic management techniques, and preparation for professional roles across shipping, logistics, and port operations. Learners also gain exposure to real-world case studies and industry-standard practices, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute effectively to organisational goals and growth.
With its structured learning, practical focus, and global relevance, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management equips learners with the expertise and confidence to excel in the ever-evolving maritime and shipping sector.
Course overview
Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management
To enrol inICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management, consists of 24 mandatory units.
Year 1 – Foundations of Maritime and Shipping Management
- Introduction to Maritime and Shipping Industry
- Global Shipping Operations and Logistics
- Maritime Economics and Trade
- Port and Terminal Management
- Shipping Law and Maritime Regulations
- Maritime Safety and Environmental Compliance
- Ship Operations and Navigation Basics
- Maritime Risk Management and Security
- Supply Chain Management in Shipping
- Maritime Communication and Coordination
- Introduction to Ship Chartering and Freight Management
- Case Studies and Applied Exercises
Year 2 – Advanced Maritime and Shipping Management
- Advanced Shipping Operations and Fleet Management
- International Maritime Trade and Logistics Strategy
- Maritime Finance and Cost Control
- Advanced Port and Terminal Management
- Maritime Project Management and Planning
- Maritime Leadership and Decision Making
- Advanced Risk and Crisis Management in Shipping
- Maritime Technology and Innovation
- Shipping Marketing and Business Development
- Environmental Sustainability in Maritime Operations
- Capstone Project – Strategic Maritime Management Plan
- Professional Development and Career Planning in Maritime Industry
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management:
Year 1 – Foundations of Maritime and Shipping Management
Introduction to Maritime and Shipping Industry
- Explain the structure and functions of the global maritime industry.
- Identify key stakeholders in shipping, including shipping companies, ports, and regulatory bodies.
- Analyse trends and developments in international shipping.
- Understand the roles of maritime organisations and authorities.
- Recognise the economic, social, and strategic importance of shipping.
- Evaluate the challenges and opportunities in modern maritime operations.
Global Shipping Operations and Logistics
- Describe the end-to-end shipping operations process.
- Analyse logistical frameworks and their impact on shipping efficiency.
- Identify supply chain linkages in global maritime transport.
- Evaluate operational strategies for cargo movement and fleet management.
- Understand port handling and intermodal transport integration.
- Apply basic operational planning principles to shipping logistics.
Maritime Economics and Trade
- Understand maritime trade principles and international shipping markets.
- Analyse factors affecting freight rates, demand, and supply in shipping.
- Evaluate economic impacts of shipping on global trade.
- Interpret market data to support strategic decision-making.
- Apply cost-benefit analysis in shipping operations.
- Assess the role of maritime trade policies and regulations.
Port and Terminal Management
- Explain the organisational structure and functions of ports and terminals.
- Assess operational procedures for cargo handling and storage.
- Evaluate efficiency in port operations and resource utilisation.
- Understand port safety, security, and environmental requirements.
- Analyse terminal performance using key operational indicators.
- Apply planning techniques for effective port and terminal management.
Shipping Law and Maritime Regulations
- Understand international maritime law, conventions, and regulations.
- Identify legal responsibilities of ship operators and port authorities.
- Analyse regulatory compliance in shipping operations.
- Apply knowledge of contracts, charter parties, and shipping agreements.
- Evaluate dispute resolution and liability issues in maritime contexts.
- Recognise ethical and legal obligations in shipping management.
Maritime Safety and Environmental Compliance
- Identify safety procedures and risk management practices on vessels.
- Understand international conventions for maritime safety (SOLAS, MARPOL).
- Evaluate environmental impacts of shipping operations.
- Implement safety management systems and compliance strategies.
- Monitor and report safety and environmental incidents.
- Develop initiatives to enhance sustainability in maritime operations.
Ship Operations and Navigation Basics
- Understand vessel types, structures, and operational functions.
- Explain basic principles of ship navigation and maneuvering.
- Analyse voyage planning and operational decision-making.
- Identify safety procedures for onboard operations.
- Apply knowledge of cargo handling, stowage, and vessel stability.
- Evaluate operational efficiency in daily ship activities.
Maritime Risk Management and Security
- Identify potential risks in shipping and port operations.
- Analyse risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
- Implement security protocols in line with international standards.
- Evaluate threat management strategies, including piracy and terrorism.
- Apply risk management frameworks to operational planning.
- Monitor compliance with ISPS and other maritime security codes.
Supply Chain Management in Shipping
- Understand principles of supply chain and logistics management in maritime context.
- Analyse supply chain integration and optimisation strategies.
- Evaluate transportation, warehousing, and distribution efficiency.
- Identify bottlenecks and propose improvements in the supply chain.
- Apply inventory management techniques for shipping operations.
- Monitor performance metrics to ensure supply chain effectiveness.
Maritime Communication and Coordination
- Develop effective communication skills for maritime operations.
- Coordinate activities among ships, ports, and logistic partners.
- Use maritime communication tools and technologies.
- Implement protocols for emergency and routine communication.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of operational coordination.
- Maintain accurate records and reporting systems for operational decisions.
Introduction to Ship Chartering and Freight Management
- Explain chartering principles and types of shipping contracts.
- Analyse freight markets and pricing mechanisms.
- Evaluate contractual obligations in shipping agreements.
- Apply knowledge of voyage estimation and operational planning.
- Develop strategies for efficient cargo allocation and chartering.
- Assess risks and financial implications of freight management decisions.
Case Studies and Applied Exercises
- Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world maritime scenarios.
- Analyse operational challenges and propose solutions.
- Develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills in shipping contexts.
- Conduct risk assessments and operational evaluations.
- Collaborate effectively in group-based simulations and exercises.
- Reflect on lessons learned to improve operational decision-making.
Year 2 – Advanced Maritime and Shipping Management
Advanced Shipping Operations and Fleet Management
- Plan and manage shipping operations across multiple vessels.
- Analyse fleet utilisation and scheduling efficiency.
- Apply operational strategies to optimise shipping performance.
- Evaluate vessel performance and maintenance planning.
- Develop strategic approaches to fleet expansion or consolidation.
- Implement best practices in operational decision-making.
International Maritime Trade and Logistics Strategy
- Analyse global shipping trade routes and market trends.
- Develop logistics strategies for international operations.
- Evaluate trade regulations and compliance requirements.
- Identify opportunities for operational optimisation in global shipping.
- Apply strategic planning techniques to supply chain management.
- Assess economic and operational risks in maritime trade decisions.
Maritime Finance and Cost Control
- Understand financial principles in shipping operations.
- Analyse operational costs, revenues, and profitability metrics.
- Apply budgeting and financial planning techniques for fleets and ports.
- Evaluate cost control measures and efficiency improvements.
- Interpret financial reports to guide management decisions.
- Develop strategies to optimise financial performance in maritime operations.
Advanced Port and Terminal Management
- Plan port operations to maximise efficiency and throughput.
- Implement advanced cargo handling and storage strategies.
- Analyse operational performance using KPIs and metrics.
- Evaluate resource allocation and staffing requirements.
- Apply safety, security, and environmental standards in port operations.
- Develop improvement initiatives for terminal management.
Maritime Project Management and Planning
- Plan and manage maritime projects from initiation to completion.
- Apply project management tools and techniques specific to shipping.
- Monitor project progress, budgets, and quality standards.
- Evaluate project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Coordinate multi-agency project teams effectively.
- Prepare reports and presentations for stakeholders.
Maritime Leadership and Decision Making
- Demonstrate leadership in operational and strategic maritime contexts.
- Apply structured decision-making frameworks in shipping management.
- Develop team management and supervisory skills.
- Evaluate the impact of leadership decisions on operational outcomes.
- Foster effective communication and collaboration within teams.
- Promote ethical and sustainable practices in maritime leadership.
Advanced Risk and Crisis Management in Shipping
- Identify complex operational, environmental, and security risks.
- Develop risk assessment models and mitigation strategies.
- Manage crisis situations in maritime operations effectively.
- Implement contingency planning for shipping and port activities.
- Evaluate emergency response procedures and protocols.
- Monitor and improve organisational resilience in maritime contexts.
Maritime Technology and Innovation
- Explore emerging technologies in shipping and port operations.
- Apply digital tools for fleet management, logistics, and navigation.
- Analyse technological solutions for operational efficiency.
- Implement innovation strategies to improve performance and safety.
- Evaluate the impact of technology on maritime operations.
- Recommend solutions for sustainable and efficient shipping practices.
Shipping Marketing and Business Development
- Develop marketing strategies for shipping companies and ports.
- Analyse market trends and customer requirements in maritime trade.
- Evaluate business development opportunities for growth.
- Apply pricing and promotional strategies in shipping services.
- Develop stakeholder relationship management strategies.
- Monitor market performance and adapt strategies for competitive advantage.
Environmental Sustainability in Maritime Operations
- Understand environmental regulations and sustainability standards in shipping.
- Evaluate operational impacts on marine ecosystems.
- Implement strategies for pollution prevention and waste management.
- Monitor energy efficiency and emissions reduction initiatives.
- Promote corporate social responsibility in maritime operations.
- Develop sustainable practices across shipping and port management.
Capstone Project – Strategic Maritime Management Plan
- Integrate knowledge from all programme units into a comprehensive project.
- Conduct operational, financial, and strategic analysis for maritime planning.
- Develop risk assessments, contingency plans, and management strategies.
- Present findings and recommendations professionally to stakeholders.
- Demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Reflect on learning outcomes and identify areas for improvement.
Professional Development and Career Planning in Maritime Industry
- Identify career pathways and professional opportunities in shipping and logistics.
- Develop a personal professional development plan.
- Enhance skills in networking, CV writing, and interview preparation.
- Understand industry expectations and professional standards.
- Evaluate strengths and areas for skill enhancement.
- Plan for continuous learning and long-term career growth.
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management opens a wide range of professional pathways for learners seeking to advance in the maritime, shipping, and logistics sectors. Learners can pursue roles that leverage their skills in operations, coordination, and management, including:
Shipping Operations Coordinator
- Oversee daily shipping operations and ensure efficient cargo handling.
- Coordinate vessel schedules, crew, and port operations.
- Monitor compliance with maritime safety and regulatory standards.
- Implement operational improvements to enhance efficiency.
- Liaise with stakeholders, including port authorities and logistics partners.
Port or Terminal Officer
- Manage port and terminal operations, including cargo handling and storage.
- Monitor terminal performance metrics and resource allocation.
- Implement safety, security, and environmental compliance protocols.
- Develop strategies to optimise throughput and reduce operational delays.
- Support planning and coordination of multi-vessel port operations.
Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Specialist
- Plan and coordinate logistics for shipping and intermodal transport.
- Optimise supply chain processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Conduct risk assessments for cargo movement and fleet operations.
- Liaise with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and clients for smooth operations.
- Apply technology and software tools for logistics and supply chain management.
Risk and Crisis Management Officer
- Identify operational, environmental, and security risks in shipping contexts.
- Develop and implement risk mitigation and contingency plans.
- Coordinate crisis response during emergencies at sea or in ports.
- Ensure compliance with international safety and security standards.
- Evaluate post-incident performance and recommend improvements.
Maritime Compliance and Safety Officer
- Ensure vessels and ports comply with international maritime regulations.
- Monitor environmental impact, sustainability practices, and safety management systems.
- Conduct audits, inspections, and reporting for regulatory compliance.
- Train staff in safety procedures and emergency preparedness.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to maintain high safety standards.
Maritime Project and Operations Planner
- Plan and manage shipping projects, including fleet operations and logistics strategies.
- Evaluate operational, financial, and strategic aspects of maritime projects.
- Coordinate multi-agency and cross-departmental initiatives.
- Implement best practices for operational efficiency and risk management.
- Contribute to organisational growth through innovative maritime solutions.
This diploma equips learners with practical expertise, strategic insight, and leadership skills, enabling them to pursue professional roles across shipping companies, port authorities, maritime logistics firms, and governmental or regulatory agencies. Graduates are prepared to make informed, ethical, and efficient decisions in diverse maritime and shipping environments.
Centres delivering the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management must meet specific requirements to ensure high-quality delivery, assessment, and learner support. These requirements are designed to maintain consistency, credibility, and international recognition across the ICTQual AB network.
Centre Approval and Accreditation
- Must be an ICTQual AB approved training centre to deliver the programme.
- Maintain valid accreditation documents and comply with ICTQual AB quality assurance standards.
- Ensure adherence to all ICTQual AB operational, reporting, and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in periodic audits and quality checks conducted by ICTQual AB.
- Demonstrate commitment to providing high-quality, learner-focused maritime education.
- Keep up-to-date with ICTQual AB policies, guidelines, and international standards in maritime education.
Training Facilities and Resources
- Provide classrooms and learning spaces suitable for theoretical and practical maritime instruction.
- Ensure access to computers, internet, and multimedia resources for online research and learning.
- Maintain teaching aids such as projectors, whiteboards, simulation equipment, and case study materials.
- Facilitate safe environments for practical exercises, including port simulations or operational planning workshops.
- Provide access to maritime textbooks, digital resources, and industry-standard reference materials.
- Maintain resources to support learner engagement, collaboration, and applied learning activities.
Qualified Trainers and Staff
- Employ trainers with relevant maritime, shipping, or logistics qualifications and industry experience.
- Trainers should demonstrate effective teaching, facilitation, and assessment skills.
- Provide ongoing professional development to ensure trainers remain up-to-date with maritime industry practices.
- Maintain administrative and support staff to assist with learner enrolment, assessment, and programme coordination.
- Ensure all trainers and staff adhere to ICTQual AB ethical standards and learner-focused teaching approaches.
- Encourage mentorship and guidance to support learners’ career and professional development goals.
Learner Support and Assessment
- Conduct structured learner induction and orientation to familiarise learners with the programme.
- Provide guidance on assignments, projects, assessments, and practical exercises.
- Offer academic and technical support, mentoring, and remedial assistance as required.
- Maintain transparent and structured assessment procedures aligned with ICTQual AB standards.
- Ensure timely feedback on assessments to support learner development and progression.
- Facilitate practical learning opportunities, case studies, and applied exercises to enhance real-world skills.
Health, Safety, and Accessibility
- Ensure training facilities meet local health and safety regulations.
- Provide clear emergency procedures and safety protocols for learners and staff.
- Maintain accessibility for learners with disabilities or special requirements.
- Conduct risk assessments for practical exercises, workshops, and simulations.
- Promote a culture of safety and awareness in all maritime and operational training.
- Ensure learners are equipped with knowledge of safety, environmental compliance, and operational standards.
Administration and Record-Keeping
- Keep accurate records of learner enrolments, attendance, and assessment outcomes.
- Maintain secure storage for certification, accreditation, and learner documentation.
- Implement systems to track learner progress and programme completion.
- Ensure administrative staff are trained on ICTQual AB reporting and compliance requirements.
- Maintain digital systems for efficient record-keeping, reporting, and learner communication.
- Promote transparency, accountability, and data integrity in all administrative processes.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This route is ideal for learners who are new to maritime and shipping management and do not have prior work experience. The process is as follows:
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the two-year programme.
- Training: Learners undertake a structured two-year programme covering 24 units and 240 credits. Training includes classroom teaching, case studies, group projects, online learning, and practical workshops focused on shipping operations, logistics, maritime safety, risk management, and leadership development.
- Assessment: Learners complete assignments, scenario-based exercises, projects, and simulations to demonstrate knowledge and practical application in maritime contexts. A comprehensive portfolio of evidence is developed throughout the programme.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of all assessments, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management, formally recognising their achievement, practical skills, and employability in shipping, port operations, logistics, and maritime management roles.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
For learners who already have relevant professional experience in maritime and shipping management, the following route is available:
- Eligibility: Learners must demonstrate at least five years of verified experience in shipping operations, port management, logistics, or related maritime roles. Professional references and evidence of responsibilities are required.
- Assessment of Competence: Candidates do not need to complete the full programme. Their skills and knowledge are assessed against the qualification’s learning outcomes through structured interviews, professional discussions, and competency checks.
- Evidence Submission: A portfolio of evidence must be submitted, including operational reports, shipping plans, risk assessments, cargo records, or stakeholder communications that demonstrate alignment with course outcomes. Supplementary documentation, such as safety compliance records or operational audits, may also be requested.
- Knowledge and Understanding: Centres may conduct a skills gap analysis. If gaps are identified, short bridging modules or supplementary training are provided to ensure complete coverage of the qualification requirements.
- Certification: Once competence is verified, the candidate is awarded the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Maritime and Shipping Management, recognising both professional experience and academic-level achievement.