The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management is a comprehensive three-year, 360-credit programme designed for learners aiming to build or advance a career in the global maritime and shipping industry. This qualification equips learners with the essential knowledge, strategic understanding, and operational expertise required to manage complex shipping operations, maritime logistics, and port management with professionalism and efficiency.
Ideal for both freshers entering the maritime sector and professionals seeking career growth, the programme covers core areas such as shipping management, maritime law, logistics and supply chain management, port operations, risk assessment, and sustainable maritime practices. Learners gain practical skills in fleet management, operational planning, and maritime analytics, ensuring they can make informed decisions and optimise performance across diverse shipping operations.
The course emphasises professional value and industry relevance by aligning learning with contemporary trends in global shipping, logistics efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Graduates develop leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills, positioning them for roles such as shipping operations manager, port manager, maritime logistics coordinator, or supply chain analyst.
By completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management, learners acquire internationally recognised expertise, enhancing their employability and career prospects in maritime transport, logistics, and shipping management worldwide. The programme also supports further academic progression or specialised training, ensuring learners are prepared to meet the evolving demands of the global maritime industry while contributing to safe, efficient, and sustainable shipping operations.
Inspire College of Technologies UK is Directly Approved Training Centre of ICTQual AB
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management is a three-year, 360-credit programme designed to provide learners with advanced knowledge and practical skills in maritime operations, shipping logistics, and port management. The qualification combines theoretical foundations with applied learning, ensuring learners are fully equipped to navigate the complexities of the global shipping industry.
Learners explore key areas such as shipping management, maritime law and regulations, fleet operations, port administration, supply chain and logistics management, risk assessment, and sustainable maritime practices. The programme also integrates modern tools and techniques for operational planning, performance analysis, and decision-making, enabling learners to optimise efficiency and compliance across maritime operations.
The course emphasises industry relevance and professional development, providing learners with hands-on experience through project-based assignments, case studies, and practical exercises. Graduates develop critical skills in leadership, strategic planning, risk management, and operational oversight, preparing them to assume responsible roles in shipping companies, port authorities, logistics firms, and maritime consultancy organisations.
Upon completion, learners are well-positioned for career advancement as shipping operations managers, port managers, maritime logistics coordinators, supply chain analysts, or project managers in the maritime and logistics sector. The qualification also supports progression to postgraduate study or specialised certifications in maritime management, logistics, or international transport.
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management equips learners with internationally recognised expertise and practical competencies, enhancing career prospects and empowering them to contribute to the safe, efficient, and sustainable management of maritime operations worldwide.
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
The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management is designed for learners seeking to build or advance a professional career in the maritime, shipping, and logistics sectors. It is particularly suited for:
- Fresh learners aspiring to enter the maritime industry with a strong foundation in shipping management, logistics, and port operations.
- Professionals currently working in shipping companies, port authorities, logistics, or supply chain management who wish to enhance their technical knowledge and leadership skills.
- Individuals aiming for senior positions such as shipping operations manager, port manager, maritime logistics coordinator, or supply chain analyst.
- Learners seeking to specialise in maritime risk management, regulatory compliance, or sustainable shipping practices.
- Career changers who want to transition into the maritime and shipping industry with internationally recognised qualifications.
- Learners looking to improve their employability, gain practical experience, and develop strategic and operational competencies relevant to global maritime operations.
This programme is ideal for both early-career learners and experienced professionals who wish to combine operational expertise with strategic leadership skills, ensuring they are prepared to manage shipping operations, logistics, and maritime projects efficiently and sustainably in diverse international contexts.
Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:
Year 1 – Foundations of Maritime & Shipping Management
Introduction to Maritime & Shipping Industry
- Understand the global maritime industry structure and key stakeholders
- Analyse trends and challenges affecting shipping operations
- Evaluate the role of shipping in international trade and commerce
Principles of Shipping Operations
- Explain core shipping operations and vessel management principles
- Apply operational procedures to optimise shipping efficiency
- Analyse operational workflows to enhance service delivery
International Trade and Logistics Fundamentals
- Understand international trade processes and documentation
- Analyse logistics and supply chain principles in global shipping
- Apply trade and logistics concepts to maritime operations
Maritime Law and Regulatory Frameworks
- Understand international and national maritime laws and conventions
- Apply legal and regulatory requirements to shipping operations
- Ensure compliance in maritime contracts and operational decisions
Port Operations and Management Basics
- Describe port functions and operational workflows
- Analyse port efficiency and resource management strategies
- Apply port management principles to enhance operational performance
Ship Types, Classification, and Vessel Management
- Identify different ship types and their operational uses
- Understand vessel classification systems and safety requirements
- Apply vessel management principles for operational optimisation
Maritime Safety and Security Principles
- Understand maritime safety and security regulations
- Implement procedures for safe navigation and cargo handling
- Analyse risk factors to improve maritime operational safety
Environmental Sustainability in Shipping
- Understand environmental impacts of maritime activities
- Apply sustainable practices to reduce marine pollution and emissions
- Evaluate strategies for environmental compliance in shipping operations
Supply Chain and Transport Management
- Analyse shipping and transport logistics within global supply chains
- Apply supply chain management principles to maritime operations
- Optimise transport processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness
Principles of Risk Management in Maritime Operations
- Identify potential risks in shipping and maritime logistics
- Apply risk assessment and mitigation techniques
- Develop strategies for safe and efficient operations
Introduction to Maritime Economics
- Understand economic principles relevant to the maritime industry
- Analyse market trends and their impact on shipping operations
- Apply economic concepts to decision-making in maritime management
Professional Ethics and Communication in Shipping
- Demonstrate ethical practices in maritime operations
- Apply effective communication skills in professional shipping contexts
- Evaluate stakeholder engagement strategies in maritime management
Year 2 – Applied Maritime Operations & Management
Advanced Shipping Operations and Planning
- Develop advanced operational plans for shipping activities
- Analyse operational data to improve efficiency and performance
- Apply planning techniques to optimise fleet management
Vessel Chartering and Freight Management
- Understand principles of vessel chartering and freight contracts
- Apply freight management techniques to shipping operations
- Evaluate cost-effective and compliant chartering practices
Maritime Logistics and Supply Chain Integration
- Integrate maritime logistics with global supply chains
- Apply best practices for cargo handling, storage, and distribution
- Analyse logistics performance for operational improvement
Port Management and Terminal Operations
- Implement strategies for effective port and terminal management
- Analyse operational efficiency and throughput in port operations
- Apply resource allocation techniques for optimal performance
Maritime Insurance and Risk Mitigation
- Understand maritime insurance policies and coverage
- Apply risk mitigation strategies in shipping and cargo operations
- Evaluate insurance claims and risk management procedures
Crisis Management and Emergency Response in Shipping
- Develop emergency response and crisis management plans
- Apply procedures for effective incident handling and recovery
- Analyse past incidents to improve operational resilience
Shipping Finance and Budgeting
- Prepare financial plans and budgets for shipping operations
- Analyse cost structures and operational expenditure
- Apply financial management techniques for profitability and efficiency
Environmental Compliance and Marine Pollution Control
- Implement environmental policies and regulatory compliance measures
- Apply pollution control strategies in shipping operations
- Evaluate sustainability initiatives in maritime management
Technology and Digitalisation in Maritime Industry
- Understand emerging technologies and digital tools in shipping
- Apply software and automation for operational efficiency
- Analyse technology adoption for competitive advantage
Project Management in Maritime Operations
- Plan, execute, and monitor maritime projects effectively
- Apply project management methodologies to shipping initiatives
- Evaluate project outcomes and implement improvements
Human Resource Management in Shipping Organisations
- Apply HR principles to maritime organisations
- Manage workforce planning, training, and performance
- Analyse leadership and team management strategies in shipping
Applied Case Studies and Operational Simulations
- Solve real-world maritime management scenarios
- Apply theoretical knowledge to practical shipping challenges
- Evaluate decision-making outcomes through simulation exercises
Year 3 – Strategic Leadership & Advanced Maritime Management
Strategic Management in Maritime & Shipping Industry
- Develop strategic plans for maritime organisations
- Analyse market positioning, competition, and growth opportunities
- Apply strategic thinking to operational and leadership decisions
International Maritime Policies and Governance
- Understand global maritime governance frameworks
- Apply policies and international standards to shipping operations
- Evaluate compliance and strategic alignment in maritime governance
Maritime Trade Law and Contract Management
- Interpret international trade laws and shipping contracts
- Apply legal principles to negotiate and manage contracts
- Evaluate contractual risks and ensure regulatory compliance
Leadership and Decision-Making in Shipping Operations
- Demonstrate effective leadership in maritime contexts
- Apply decision-making frameworks to complex operational challenges
- Analyse outcomes and improve organisational performance
Advanced Risk and Safety Management in Maritime Sector
- Conduct comprehensive risk assessments for shipping operations
- Implement advanced safety management strategies
- Evaluate risk mitigation measures and compliance standards
Port and Terminal Strategic Planning
- Develop long-term strategic plans for ports and terminals
- Analyse operational efficiency and infrastructure requirements
- Apply planning techniques to enhance port competitiveness
Global Supply Chain Management for Maritime Trade
- Manage global supply chains and logistics networks
- Apply optimisation techniques for efficient maritime trade
- Analyse supply chain performance and implement improvements
Innovation and Emerging Technologies in Shipping
- Identify trends in maritime technology and innovation
- Apply digital solutions for operational and strategic advantage
- Evaluate the impact of technological advancements on shipping
Sustainability and Climate Change Adaptation in Shipping
- Implement sustainable shipping practices and policies
- Analyse climate change impacts on maritime operations
- Develop adaptation strategies for resilient maritime management
Research Methods for Maritime Management
- Apply research methodologies to maritime industry challenges
- Collect, analyse, and interpret data for decision-making
- Produce structured reports and research outputs
Independent Research Project in Maritime & Shipping Management
- Conduct an independent research study in maritime management
- Analyse complex operational or strategic issues
- Present findings with actionable recommendations
Capstone Project: Applied Maritime & Shipping Strategy
- Integrate knowledge and skills from all programme units
- Develop a comprehensive maritime strategy addressing real-world challenges
- Demonstrate professional competence in leadership, planning, and operational management
Learners pursuing the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management follow a structured pathway designed to develop professional expertise, technical skills, and strategic leadership in the global maritime sector. The programme spans three years and awards 360 credits, ensuring comprehensive coverage of theoretical knowledge and practical applications.
- Completion of Mandatory Study Units
- Learners must successfully complete 36 mandatory units across three academic years.
- The curriculum progresses from foundational knowledge in maritime operations and shipping logistics to advanced strategic management, risk assessment, and leadership in the maritime industry.
- Assessment Methodology
- Assessment is primarily assignment-based, including projects, operational simulations, case studies, and research assignments.
- Learners demonstrate applied knowledge, analytical skills, and professional decision-making relevant to real-world maritime operations.
- Credit Accumulation
- Each academic year awards 120 credits, accumulating to 360 credits upon successful completion of all units.
- Credits reflect a balanced focus on practical skills, strategic management, and industry-relevant knowledge.
- Progression and Career Pathways
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as shipping operations manager, port manager, maritime logistics coordinator, supply chain analyst, and project manager.
- The diploma also supports progression to postgraduate study or specialised certifications in maritime management, international trade, and logistics.
- Award of Certification
- Learners who meet all programme requirements are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Maritime & Shipping Management, validating their capability to manage, lead, and optimise maritime and shipping operations globally.
