ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management

The ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management is a senior vocational qualification designed to provide learners with advanced expertise in the global shipping and logistics industry. Building on the knowledge and skills developed at Levels 4 and 5, this diploma focuses on strategic management, international trade, maritime law, port operations, and sustainable logistics practices.

Learners undertaking this qualification will gain a deep understanding of the complexities of international shipping networks, the financial and legal frameworks that govern maritime operations, and the leadership skills required to manage large‑scale logistics projects. The programme also places strong emphasis on sustainability, digitalisation, and innovation, ensuring that learners are prepared to meet the evolving challenges of the modern shipping industry.

This diploma is particularly suited to individuals aspiring to progress into senior management, consultancy, or specialist roles within shipping companies, freight forwarding firms, logistics providers, and port authorities. It is also valuable for professionals already working in the sector who wish to formalise their expertise with an internationally recognised qualification that demonstrates advanced competence and leadership potential.

With its strong vocational and strategic focus, the Level 6 Diploma bridges the gap between middle‑management study and executive‑level qualifications. It provides a clear progression pathway to Level 7 Diplomas in Shipping Operations and Management, while also enhancing employability and international career opportunities.

By completing the ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management, learners position themselves for senior leadership roles, global recognition, and long‑term success in the maritime and logistics sectors.

Course overview

International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management

To enrol in ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of enrolment, reflecting the advanced level of study and professional expectations.
  • Educational Background:A secondary school education or equivalent is required.Completion of the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management (or an equivalent qualification in shipping, logistics, or supply chain) is strongly recommended.
  • Professional Experience: While not mandatory, learners with prior professional experience in shipping, logistics, freight forwarding, or international trade will benefit from applying real‑world context to their studies.Supervisory or middle‑management experience in maritime or logistics operations is advantageous.
  • English Proficiency: Learners should have a strong command of English, both written and spoken, to engage effectively with advanced course materials, assessments, and industry terminology.
  • Additional Requirements: Access to a computer, laptop, or smart device with internet connectivity.Willingness to engage in independent study, research, and professional development.

This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. International Shipping Strategy and Policy
  2. Advanced Port and Terminal Operations Management
  3. Shipping Finance, Investment, and Risk Analysis
  4. Global Supply Chain Optimisation and Technology
  5. Human Resource and Organisational Development in Shipping
  6. Research Project in Shipping Operations and Management

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management:

International Shipping Strategy and Policy

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate the role of international shipping in global trade and economic development.
  • Analyse the impact of national and international shipping policies on maritime operations.
  • Assess the influence of geopolitical, economic, and environmental factors on shipping strategy.
  • Formulate strategic responses to changes in global shipping regulations and trade agreements.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of policy frameworks shaping maritime governance.
  • Evaluate the role of international organisations (e.g., IMO, WTO) in shaping shipping policy.
  • Apply strategic planning models to long‑term shipping operations.
  • Develop recommendations for aligning shipping strategies with global policy trends.

Advanced Port and Terminal Operations Management

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Analyse the strategic role of ports and terminals in global supply chains.
  • Evaluate advanced methods for port planning, capacity management, and optimisation.
  • Apply models for improving port efficiency, safety, and security.
  • Assess the impact of digitalisation and automation on port operations.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of environmental and sustainability practices in port management.
  • Formulate strategies to address congestion, competition, and global trade pressures.
  • Critically evaluate case studies of successful port and terminal operations.
  • Develop recommendations for future‑ready port and terminal management.

Shipping Finance, Investment, and Risk Analysis

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of financial principles in shipping operations.
  • Analyse investment opportunities in fleet expansion, port infrastructure, and logistics.
  • Apply financial modelling techniques to evaluate shipping projects.
  • Assess the role of risk analysis in shipping finance and investment decisions.
  • Evaluate the impact of global economic trends on shipping finance.
  • Formulate strategies for cost control, profitability, and sustainable growth.
  • Critically assess the role of insurance and hedging in risk management.
  • Develop financial strategies for long‑term competitiveness in maritime operations.

Global Supply Chain Optimisation and Technology

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Analyse the role of shipping in global supply chain optimisation.
  • Evaluate the impact of emerging technologies (AI, blockchain, IoT) on logistics.
  • Apply advanced models for supply chain integration and efficiency.
  • Assess the role of digitalisation in enhancing supply chain visibility and resilience.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of sustainable and green supply chain practices.
  • Formulate strategies for reducing costs and improving service levels.
  • Critically evaluate case studies of technology‑driven supply chain transformation.
  • Develop recommendations for future‑oriented supply chain strategies.

Human Resource and Organisational Development in Shipping

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Analyse the role of human resource management in shipping and logistics organisations.
  • Evaluate strategies for workforce planning, recruitment, and retention in maritime contexts.
  • Apply leadership and organisational development theories to shipping operations.
  • Assess the impact of multicultural and international teams on organisational performance.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of training, development, and succession planning in shipping.
  • Formulate strategies for improving employee engagement and performance.
  • Critically evaluate the role of HR in ensuring compliance with international labour standards.
  • Develop recommendations for building resilient and adaptive shipping organisations.

Research Project in Shipping Operations and Management

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Formulate a research question relevant to advanced shipping and logistics studies.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of research methodologies suitable for maritime contexts.
  • Collect, analyse, and interpret data using appropriate tools and techniques.
  • Critically evaluate existing literature and industry practices.
  • Apply ethical principles in conducting maritime research.
  • Develop evidence‑based conclusions and recommendations for industry practice.
  • Present research findings in a professional and academically rigorous format.
  • Reflect on the research process and its contribution to personal and professional development.

The ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management provides learners with advanced strategic, financial, and leadership expertise in the maritime and logistics sectors. This qualification prepares learners for senior management, consultancy, and policy‑influencing roles while also creating pathways into higher vocational diplomas, professional certifications, and global career opportunities. Below are the key areas of progression available after completing this diploma.

Progression to Higher-Level Diplomas

  • Advance to the ICTQual Level 7 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management.
  • Progress into Level 7 qualifications in logistics, supply chain, or transport management.
  • Build credits towards advanced vocational diplomas in maritime studies.
  • Strengthen academic standing for professional maritime certifications.
  • Prepare for advanced training in shipping strategy, finance, or sustainability.
  • Gain eligibility for higher‑level CPD (Continuing Professional Development) courses.
  • Establish a pathway towards executive‑level maritime qualifications.
  • Position yourself for senior vocational recognition in global trade.
  • Develop readiness for advanced research‑based maritime projects.

Career Opportunities in Shipping and Logistics

  • Work as a senior shipping operations manager with global oversight.
  • Join freight forwarding firms as a regional or international logistics director.
  • Lead port operations in planning, security, and environmental management.
  • Take on roles in customs and international trade compliance leadership.
  • Contribute to global supply chain management at a strategic level.
  • Develop into a port or terminal director with executive responsibilities.
  • Gain experience in maritime consultancy and advisory services.
  • Progress into senior management roles with multinational logistics firms.
  • Build a career foundation for long‑term executive leadership in shipping.

Pathway to Specialised Maritime Roles

  • Train in advanced port and terminal development and optimisation.
  • Develop expertise in maritime law, contracts, and dispute resolution.
  • Specialise in shipping finance, investment, and risk analysis.
  • Pursue roles in sustainability and green logistics leadership.
  • Gain skills in digitalisation and technology‑driven maritime solutions.
  • Explore opportunities in international maritime consultancy.
  • Advance into policy‑shaping roles in global trade organisations.
  • Build expertise for future leadership in global supply chains.
  • Position yourself for niche roles in marine insurance and risk management.

International Employment Prospects

  • Access senior opportunities in global shipping hubs and logistics centres.
  • Work with multinational freight forwarding and logistics companies.
  • Join international trade organisations supporting cross‑border operations.
  • Contribute to global supply chain leadership in manufacturing and retail.
  • Explore maritime careers in regions with expanding port infrastructure.
  • Gain exposure to international shipping regulations and compliance.
  • Build a career in customs brokerage and international trade leadership.
  • Secure positions in global NGOs and organisations focused on maritime trade.
  • Enhance employability for relocation or overseas executive assignments.

Academic and Professional Development

  • Strengthen research and analytical skills through advanced maritime projects.
  • Build academic writing and presentation skills for executive contexts.
  • Gain recognition through professional bodies in shipping and logistics.
  • Attend international conferences and seminars on maritime strategy.
  • Publish research or case studies in shipping and logistics journals.
  • Network with senior industry professionals for mentorship and collaboration.
  • Develop leadership and management skills for executive roles.
  • Engage in continuous professional development (CPD) programmes.
  • Position yourself for lifelong learning in global trade and logistics.

Leadership and Executive Pathways

  • Progress into senior management roles in port or terminal operations.
  • Lead international teams in shipping documentation and compliance.
  • Manage large‑scale logistics projects across multimodal transport systems.
  • Oversee risk management and crisis response at a global level.
  • Take responsibility for strategic financial planning in shipping.
  • Develop into a shipping operations director with global oversight.
  • Transition into executive leadership roles in global logistics firms.
  • Build leadership skills for cross‑cultural and multinational teams.
  • Prepare for board‑level positions in maritime organisations.

Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities

  • Establish a global freight forwarding or logistics consultancy business.
  • Launch a shipping finance, risk, and compliance advisory service.
  • Develop a start‑up focused on digital shipping and maritime technology.
  • Create a niche business in sustainable and green logistics solutions.
  • Offer executive training and development services for shipping professionals.
  • Build partnerships with international trade and maritime organisations.
  • Explore opportunities in e‑commerce logistics and global distribution.
  • Provide consultancy in maritime law, contracts, and dispute resolution.
  • Innovate in technology‑driven shipping platforms and solutions.

Industry Recognition and Networking

  • Gain senior membership in professional shipping and logistics associations.
  • Access global industry networks for executive career advancement.
  • Participate in international maritime exhibitions and trade fairs.
  • Collaborate with multinational logistics companies on strategic projects.
  • Build credibility through advanced professional certifications.
  • Engage in mentorship programmes with senior maritime leaders.
  • Develop a professional portfolio showcasing executive achievements.
  • Strengthen visibility in the global shipping and logistics community.
  • Position yourself as a recognised leader in maritime management.

FAQs

This diploma is ideal for:

  • Learners who have successfully completed the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management or an equivalent qualification.
  • Professionals already working in shipping, logistics, or freight forwarding who want to progress into senior leadership or consultancy roles.
  • Individuals seeking to develop advanced strategic, financial, and research skills for international shipping careers.

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

  • Senior shipping operations manager
  • Port or terminal director
  • Maritime finance and investment specialist
  • Global supply chain strategist
  • Senior compliance and policy advisor
  • Risk and sustainability consultant
  • Organisational development leader in shipping
  • International maritime consultant

The ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management is a 60 Credits hours training programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual International Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management consist of 6 mandatory assessments. These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass all assessments to achieve this qualification.