ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control
The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control is an internationally recognised programme designed to equip learners with essential knowledge and practical skills required for safe and efficient drilling operations in the oil and gas sector. This diploma offers a strong foundation for individuals aiming to pursue careers in drilling, well supervision, and operational management within upstream energy projects.
Delivered over a three-month period with a 30-credit structure, the course covers core principles of drilling engineering, well control techniques, rig operations, and safety and compliance standards. Learners benefit from a combination of classroom instruction, digital learning modules, and practical case studies, ensuring they gain both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience relevant to real-world drilling environments.
This programme is ideal for freshers entering the oil and gas industry as well as professionals seeking to formalise their skills and gain internationally recognised credentials. Learners develop competencies in drilling operations, well monitoring, risk assessment, safety procedures, and technical problem-solving, preparing them for roles such as Junior Driller, Well Site Assistant, Drilling Operations Support, or Rig Technician.
Upon completion, learners are equipped to contribute effectively to drilling projects, ensuring operational efficiency, safety compliance, and environmental responsibility. The course enhances technical expertise, leadership skills, and analytical thinking, empowering learners to pursue career progression and specialised roles in the upstream oil and gas sector.
The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control provides internationally recognised qualifications, opening pathways for further professional development, operational specialisation, and career growth in drilling operations and well management across global energy markets.
Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control, consists of 3 mandatory units.
Foundation and Core Knowledge
- Drilling Engineering Principles and Well Design
- Well Control Techniques and Safety Management
- Rig Operations, Monitoring, and Operational Procedures
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control:
Foundation and Core Knowledge
Drilling Engineering Principles and Well Design
- Understand the fundamental principles of drilling engineering and well construction.
- Explain the design and planning of wells to meet operational and safety requirements.
- Analyse geological and reservoir data to support well design decisions.
- Apply technical knowledge to optimise drilling performance and efficiency.
- Recognise the roles of engineers, drill teams, and stakeholders in well planning.
Well Control Techniques and Safety Management
- Identify common well control challenges and methods to prevent blowouts and incidents.
- Apply safety protocols and emergency response procedures during drilling operations.
- Monitor pressure, fluid circulation, and equipment performance to maintain control.
- Evaluate risk factors and implement mitigation strategies in well operations.
- Develop a safety-first mindset to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Rig Operations, Monitoring, and Operational Procedures
- Demonstrate knowledge of rig equipment, systems, and operational workflows.
- Plan and supervise drilling operations in accordance with best practices.
- Monitor rig performance, production data, and operational efficiency.
- Apply problem-solving skills to address technical and operational challenges.
- Maintain accurate records and reports for compliance and operational tracking.
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control provides learners with a strong foundation in drilling operations, well design, and safety management. This qualification prepares learners for operational, technical, and supervisory roles in the oil and gas sector, while offering pathways for career advancement and professional development within drilling and well control operations.
Advancement to Higher-Level Diplomas
- Learners can progress to Level 3 Diplomas in Drilling Engineering, Well Control, or Oil and Gas Operations.
- Gain advanced knowledge in complex well planning, drilling techniques, and risk management.
- Develop specialised skills in deepwater, offshore, and unconventional drilling operations.
- Enhance technical competencies for planning, scheduling, and optimising drilling performance.
- Prepare for leadership roles in operational and project-based drilling environments.
- Strengthen analytical and problem-solving abilities for challenging engineering tasks.
- Access professional development opportunities aligned with industry standards.
Career Opportunities in Drilling and Well Control
- Prepare for entry-level positions such as Junior Driller, Rig Technician, Well Site Assistant, or Drilling Operations Support.
- Equip learners to support operational workflows, rig monitoring, and well management.
- Develop skills applicable to both onshore and offshore drilling operations.
- Increase employability across global oil and gas companies and energy projects.
- Support progression into roles with operational responsibility and team coordination.
- Provide foundational expertise for specialised positions in safety, compliance, and monitoring.
- Foster competencies for roles in upstream production and project assistance.
Health, Safety, and Environmental Pathways
- Implement health and safety regulations during drilling and well control operations.
- Apply environmental management practices to minimise operational impact.
- Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation measures in real-time operations.
- Develop emergency response planning and contingency management skills.
- Monitor compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
- Promote a safety-first culture within drilling teams and project environments.
- Prepare learners for HSE support roles in operational or project settings.
Technical Operations and Rig Management
- Understand rig equipment, systems, and operational procedures for efficient workflow.
- Plan and supervise drilling and production activities with technical accuracy.
- Monitor drilling performance, pressure, and operational efficiency.
- Apply troubleshooting and problem-solving techniques in live operational scenarios.
- Maintain accurate reporting and documentation for compliance and audits.
- Coordinate tasks and resources to ensure smooth rig operations.
- Prepare learners for technical support and operational supervision roles.
Leadership and Team Coordination
- Develop communication skills for collaboration with engineers, supervisors, and team members.
- Build leadership capabilities to guide drilling and rig teams effectively.
- Apply conflict resolution and problem-solving strategies in operational environments.
- Monitor team performance and provide constructive feedback to enhance efficiency.
- Allocate tasks and resources to optimise operational workflows.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and motivation among staff.
- Prepare learners for supervisory or team lead positions on-site or in project operations.
Risk Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Identify and assess risks associated with drilling, well control, and rig operations.
- Implement risk mitigation strategies to prevent accidents and operational failures.
- Apply quality assurance techniques to ensure operational reliability and safety.
- Conduct inspections, audits, and reviews to maintain compliance standards.
- Monitor environmental and operational performance to minimise negative impact.
- Maintain accurate documentation for internal and external verification.
- Prepare learners for roles in risk management, quality control, or operational oversight.
Technology and Innovation in Drilling Operations
- Utilise digital tools and software for monitoring and planning drilling activities.
- Apply innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and safety.
- Understand automation, instrumentation, and emerging technologies in drilling.
- Use simulation and modelling for project planning and performance evaluation.
- Monitor technological trends affecting upstream operations and well control.
- Enhance problem-solving with technology-driven approaches to operational challenges.
- Prepare learners for technology-focused roles in modern drilling and well control projects.
To deliver the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control effectively, centres must meet stringent academic, operational, and quality standards. These requirements ensure learners receive high-quality education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills in drilling and well control.
Centre Approval and Accreditation
- Centres must be formally approved by ICTQual AB before offering the programme.
- Submission of a detailed application including facilities, staff qualifications, and operational procedures is required.
- Centres must comply with ICTQual AB policies, quality assurance, and assessment standards.
- Periodic audits and monitoring visits are conducted to maintain accreditation.
- Centres must maintain accurate records of learner enrolments, progress, and assessment outcomes.
- Procedures for admission, assessment, and certification must be clearly documented and followed.
- Accreditation renewal is required to maintain authorised status.
Qualified Teaching and Assessment Staff
- Tutors and assessors must hold recognised qualifications in drilling, oil and gas engineering, or related disciplines.
- Staff should have practical industry experience to support applied learning.
- Assessors must be competent in evaluating learner performance according to ICTQual AB standards.
- Continuous professional development is mandatory to ensure up-to-date industry knowledge.
- Internal verifiers must monitor assessment processes for fairness, consistency, and compliance.
- Centres must maintain records of staff qualifications, experience, and training.
- New teaching or assessment staff must be documented and approved by the centre.
Learning Resources and Infrastructure
- Centres must provide suitable classrooms, laboratories, and practical workshop spaces for drilling training.
- Access to digital learning resources, simulation tools, and industry software is essential.
- Learning environments must be safe, accessible, and conducive to study.
- Centres should maintain libraries or resource centres with up-to-date technical materials.
- Practical workshops and simulations must support applied learning.
- Resources should facilitate blended learning with digital and face-to-face instruction.
- Equipment should be maintained and updated according to industry standards.
Learner Support and Guidance
- Induction sessions must introduce learners to programme structure, objectives, and assessments.
- Academic and pastoral support should be provided throughout the course.
- Career guidance and progression advice must be available to all learners.
- Centres should maintain clear communication channels for queries and feedback.
- Support should be available for learners with additional learning needs.
- Regular progress reviews and mentoring sessions must be conducted.
- Learner feedback should inform ongoing improvements in teaching and support.
Assessment and Internal Verification
- Assessments must follow ICTQual AB-approved criteria and methods.
- Centres must ensure transparency and consistency in assessment procedures.
- Internal verification must maintain fairness, accuracy, and compliance with standards.
- Accurate records of assessments and learner portfolios must be maintained.
- Learners must be informed of assessment methods, criteria, and deadlines.
- Constructive feedback should be provided promptly to support learner development.
- Assessment procedures should be regularly reviewed for quality assurance.
Health, Safety, and Compliance
- Centres must comply with local and international health and safety regulations.
- Emergency procedures, first aid, and accessible facilities must be in place.
- Data protection and privacy policies must comply with legal requirements.
- Centres must ensure inclusivity and non-discrimination in all activities.
- Ethical conduct must be promoted among staff and learners.
- Centres should implement environmentally sustainable practices.
- Compliance audits may be conducted to verify adherence to operational and safety standards.
Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement
- Centres must participate in ICTQual AB’s quality assurance and monitoring activities.
- Internal reviews should identify areas for improvement in teaching, assessment, and resources.
- Feedback from learners, staff, and stakeholders must be incorporated into improvements.
- Centres should maintain records of corrective actions and development plans.
- Innovative teaching methods and digital tools should be integrated to enhance learning.
- Regular performance evaluations should ensure alignment with international standards.
- Collaboration with ICTQual AB ensures compliance with global drilling and well control education benchmarks.
By meeting these centre requirements, institutions ensure learners gain a high-quality, internationally recognised education, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and competence necessary for successful careers in drilling and well control within the oil and gas industry.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This pathway is designed for learners who are new to drilling operations and well control and wish to acquire foundational knowledge and practical skills for a career in the oil and gas sector. It provides a structured introduction to drilling principles, well safety, operational procedures, and risk management.
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the 3-month, 30-credit programme.
- Training:The course consists of three core study units — Drilling Engineering Principles and Well Design, Well Control Techniques and Safety Management, and Rig Operations, Monitoring, and Operational Procedures. Training combines classroom instruction, digital modules, case studies, and practical exercises, ensuring learners gain both theoretical understanding and applied skills.
- Assessment:Learners are evaluated through practical assignments, scenario-based exercises, written reports, and project work. Assessments measure understanding of drilling principles, safety procedures, operational workflows, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Certification:Upon successful completion, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as Junior Driller, Well Site Assistant, Rig Technician, or Drilling Operations Support Officer. Learners may also progress to higher-level diplomas within the ICTQual AB qualification framework.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
This pathway is intended for professionals already working in drilling operations, rig management, or oil and gas engineering who wish to gain international recognition for their expertise. It allows experienced individuals to achieve certification through evidence of prior learning and demonstrated competence.
- Eligibility:Learners must provide evidence of at least two years of verifiable professional experience in drilling, well supervision, or related operational roles. Acceptable evidence includes employer references, project portfolios, operational logs, or documented experience in rig management.
- Assessment of Competence:Experienced learners are assessed through portfolio reviews, professional discussions, and practical demonstrations that evaluate technical knowledge, operational proficiency, and risk management capabilities. Any identified gaps may be addressed through short bridging sessions or targeted assessments.
- Evidence Submission:Learners submit a professional portfolio including operational records, project documentation, risk logs, and safety compliance reports. All evidence is verified by the approved centre for authenticity and alignment with ICTQual AB standards.
- Knowledge and Understanding:If specific competencies require strengthening, learners may complete refresher workshops, supplementary assignments, or practical exercises to meet full qualification requirements.
- Certification:Upon successful verification of competence, learners receive the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Drilling and Well Control, confirming professional proficiency and readiness for advancement into roles such as Drilling Supervisor, Well Site Coordinator, Rig Operations Officer, or HSE Officer in Drilling Operations.
This dual-route framework ensures accessibility for both beginners and experienced professionals, supporting career development through practical assessment, flexible learning, and internationally recognised standards in drilling and well control.