ICTQual International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations

The ICTQual International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations is a prestigious, executive‑level qualification tailored for senior professionals and ambitious leaders in the global maritime industry. As the highest vocational diploma in this progression pathway, it builds upon the foundations of Levels 4–6 and equips learners with the strategic insight, advanced analytical skills, and leadership capabilities required to manage and transform complex international shipping operations.

This diploma goes beyond operational and managerial knowledge, focusing on strategic governance, global chartering strategies, advanced vessel operations, maritime economics, compliance, and digitalisation. Learners will also engage with sustainability frameworks, risk management, and leadership practices, ensuring they are prepared to address the evolving challenges of global trade and maritime logistics.

The programme is designed for professionals who aspire to executive and policy‑influencing roles in shipbroking firms, chartering companies, port authorities, marine insurance, and international trade organisations. Through applied projects and research, learners will develop the ability to critically evaluate global shipping trends, design innovative solutions, and lead organisational transformation.

Graduates of the ICTQual Level 7 Diploma gain not only advanced technical and strategic expertise but also the professional recognition and credibility needed to thrive in one of the world’s most competitive industries. The qualification also provides a clear progression pathway to specialised maritime certifications, senior leadership roles, and industry advisory positions, making it a powerful stepping stone for long‑term career advancement.

Course overview

International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations

To enrol in ICTQual International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be 21 years or older at the time of enrolment.This reflects the senior, executive‑level nature of the qualification.
  • Educational Background: Successful completion of the ICTQual Level 6 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations, or an equivalent Level 6 qualification in shipping, logistics, maritime management, or international trade.Learners with other recognised maritime or business qualifications at Level 6 may also be considered.
  • Professional Experience: Substantial professional experience in shipbroking, chartering, vessel operations, maritime law, or shipping finance is strongly recommended.Senior professionals with 5 years of relevant experience may be admitted through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), even if they do not hold a formal Level 6 qualification.
  • English Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate English reading, writing, and comprehension skills, as all course materials, assessments, and maritime documentation are delivered in English.Evidence may include prior study in English, workplace use, or recognised English language qualifications.
  • Additional Requirements: Access to a computer or smart device with internet connectivity for online study, research, and assessments.A commitment to independent research, applied projects, and strategic case studies.

This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. International Shipping Strategy and Governance
  2. Advanced Port and Terminal Leadership
  3. Maritime Investment and Global Finance
  4. Policy, Regulation, and Global Trade Law
  5. Innovation, Sustainability, and Organisational Transformation
  6. Major Research Project / Strategic Consultancy Report

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations:

International Shipping Strategy and Governance

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

  • Critically evaluate global shipping strategies and their alignment with international trade dynamics.
  • Analyse governance frameworks shaping maritime operations and policy.
  • Assess the impact of geopolitical, economic, and environmental factors on shipping strategy.
  • Formulate long‑term strategic plans for shipbroking and chartering organisations.
  • Demonstrate the ability to influence and contribute to international maritime governance.
  • Critically appraise the role of international organisations (IMO, WTO, UNCTAD) in shaping maritime governance.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of corporate governance structures in global shipping firms.
  • Recommend governance reforms that enhance transparency, accountability, and competitiveness.
  • Integrate ethical, social, and environmental considerations into strategic governance decisions.

Advanced Port and Terminal Leadership

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

  • Critically assess the strategic role of ports and terminals in global supply chains.
  • Evaluate leadership approaches for managing large‑scale port and terminal operations.
  • Analyse concession agreements, PPP models, and investment strategies in port management.
  • Apply advanced risk management and safety frameworks to port operations.
  • Recommend strategies for enhancing efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability in port leadership.
  • Assess the impact of automation, digitalisation, and smart port technologies on terminal leadership.
  • Critically evaluate stakeholder management and community engagement in port development.
  • Formulate strategies for resilience against disruptions such as pandemics, cyber‑attacks, or climate change.
  • Demonstrate board‑level decision‑making in port expansion, investment, and governance.

Maritime Investment and Global Finance

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

  • Critically evaluate global shipping finance structures and investment models.
  • Analyse the impact of market cycles, risk, and volatility on maritime investment decisions.
  • Apply advanced financial modelling to vessel acquisition, chartering, and fleet management.
  • Assess the role of institutional investors, banks, and leasing companies in shipping finance.
  • Recommend investment strategies that balance profitability, sustainability, and compliance.
  • Evaluate the impact of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria on shipping finance.
  • Critically analyse mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures in the maritime sector.
  • Assess the role of capital markets, private equity, and hedge funds in global shipping.
  • Develop board‑level investment proposals supported by financial and risk analysis.

Policy, Regulation, and Global Trade Law

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

  • Interpret and critically evaluate international maritime law and trade regulations.
  • Analyse the impact of WTO, IMO, and regional trade agreements on shipping operations.
  • Assess the effectiveness of regulatory frameworks in promoting fair and sustainable trade.
  • Apply advanced legal reasoning to complex disputes in chartering and vessel operations.
  • Recommend policy reforms and compliance strategies for multinational shipping organisations.
  • Critically evaluate the role of arbitration and mediation in maritime dispute resolution.
  • Analyse the legal implications of sanctions, embargoes, and trade restrictions.
  • Assess the impact of environmental regulations (MARPOL, CII, EEXI) on global shipping.
  • Demonstrate the ability to draft compliance frameworks for international shipping firms.

Innovation, Sustainability, and Organisational Transformation

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

  • Critically evaluate the role of innovation and digitalisation in transforming shipping operations.
  • Analyse sustainability frameworks and their application to maritime logistics.
  • Assess the impact of decarbonisation, green technologies, and ESG principles on shipping.
  • Develop strategies for organisational transformation in response to global challenges.
  • Demonstrate leadership in embedding innovation and sustainability into corporate strategy.
  • Critically evaluate case studies of successful and failed organisational transformations.
  • Recommend strategies for integrating circular economy principles into shipping operations.
  • Assess the role of cultural change and human capital development in transformation.
  • Formulate innovation roadmaps that align with long‑term maritime sustainability goals.

Major Research Project / Strategic Consultancy Report

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

  • Formulate a research question or consultancy problem relevant to shipbroking or vessel operations.
  • Design and implement a robust research methodology at executive level.
  • Collect, analyse, and interpret complex data from industry and academic sources.
  • Apply theoretical frameworks to solve real‑world strategic problems in shipping.
  • Produce a professional, evidence‑based report suitable for board‑level decision‑making.
  • Demonstrate independent critical thinking, strategic insight, and applied problem‑solving.
  • Critically evaluate the limitations of research and propose areas for further study.
  • Present findings and recommendations in a format suitable for executive stakeholders.
  • Reflect on the professional and industry impact of the research or consultancy project.

The Level 7 Diploma is the highest vocational award in the ICTQual pathway. It equips learners with the strategic, financial, and governance expertise required for executive leadership, consultancy, and industry influence in global shipping and chartering. After completing this qualification, graduates can progress in several directions:

  • Progress to the ICTQual Level 8 Executive Diploma or equivalent senior professional qualifications in maritime leadership and governance.
  • Strengthen eligibility for fellowship or senior membership with professional bodies such as the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) and other international maritime associations.
  • Advance into executive and board‑level roles such as Chief Shipbroker, Chartering Director, Head of Global Operations, or Maritime Strategy Director.
  • Take on leadership positions in port authorities, shipping agencies, marine insurance firms, and international trade organisations.
  • Establish independent consultancy or shipbroking enterprises, leveraging advanced expertise in strategy, finance, and governance.
  • Contribute to policy development and regulatory advisory boards, influencing international maritime law, trade policy, and sustainability frameworks.
  • Lead strategic consultancy projects for governments, port authorities, and multinational shipping firms.
  • Enhance global career mobility with opportunities in major maritime hubs such as London, Dubai, Singapore, Rotterdam, and Hong Kong.
  • Continue professional development in sustainability, digitalisation, and maritime economics, aligning with the industry’s transformation.
  • Build credibility as a thought leader through publications, conferences, and industry research, shaping the future of global shipping.

FAQs

The programme is ideal for:

  • Graduates of the ICTQual Level 6 Diploma or equivalent maritime qualifications.
  • Senior professionals in shipbroking, chartering, port management, or marine insurance.
  • Executives seeking to formalise their expertise with an internationally recognised award.
  • Individuals aiming to influence policy, governance, and strategic leadership in global shipping.

Graduates are prepared for executive and board‑level roles such as:

  • Chief Shipbroker or Chartering Director
  • Head of Global Vessel Operations
  • Maritime Risk and Compliance Director
  • Shipping Finance and Investment Strategist
  • Port and Terminal Executive Leader
  • Strategic Consultant in global shipping and trade

The ICTQual International Level 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations is a 120 Credit 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 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations 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 7 Diploma in Shipbroking and Chartered Vessel Operations 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.