LICQual UK Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations Management
The LICQual UK Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in the complex and competitive global shipping industry. Many learners face challenges such as limited strategic knowledge, lack of managerial expertise, and difficulty understanding international maritime regulations, port operations, and supply chain integration. These gaps can restrict career progression into senior or decision-making roles within shipping and logistics organizations.
This diploma offers a practical solution by developing advanced operational, managerial, and analytical skills required for modern shipping environments. The course focuses on strategic shipping operations, maritime compliance, risk management, port and terminal coordination, and effective leadership within shipping and logistics settings. Learners gain a deeper understanding of how to manage shipping operations efficiently, reduce operational risks, and support organizational performance in international trade.
Ideal for experienced professionals, supervisors, and managers, this qualification strengthens decision-making, problem-solving, and operational planning capabilities. With industry-focused content and a UK-recognised framework, the diploma supports career growth into higher-level roles and further academic progression. It enables learners to confidently manage shipping operations, adapt to global industry demands, and contribute effectively to the success of maritime and logistics organizations.
Program Outline
The LICQual UK Level 6 Diploma in Shipping Operations and Management is an advanced qualification comprising 6 units and 120 credits, designed to develop high-level expertise in shipping and maritime operations. The course covers key areas such as strategic shipping management, international maritime regulations, port and terminal operations, risk and safety management, logistics coordination, and supply chain integration. Learners also explore operational performance management, financial planning, and leadership practices within shipping organizations.
This diploma emphasizes applied learning, enabling learners to analyze complex shipping operations, manage resources effectively, and ensure regulatory compliance across global trade environments. The structured unit framework supports the development of strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills required for senior operational roles. Suitable for experienced professionals seeking career advancement, the qualification provides a strong pathway into management positions within shipping, logistics, freight forwarding, and maritime services, while also supporting progression to higher-level professional or academic studies.
Unit Structure
| Qualification | Unit Title | Credits | GLH |
| LICQ2201282-1 | Strategic Shipping and Maritime Management | 20 | 80 |
| LICQ2201282-2 | Advanced Maritime Law and Risk Management | 20 | 80 |
| LICQ2201282-3 | Global Supply Chain and Shipping Logistics | 20 | 80 |
| LICQ2201282-4 | Port Economics and International Trade Policy | 20 | 80 |
| LICQ2201282-5 | Sustainable Shipping and Environmental Management | 20 | 80 |
| LICQ2201282-6 | Research Project in Shipping Operations and Management | 20 | 80 |
Who Can Benefit
- Professionals aiming to progress into senior roles in shipping operations and management
- Supervisors and team leaders working in shipping, logistics, or maritime services seeking leadership skills
- Experienced staff in freight forwarding, port operations, or supply chain management wanting career advancement
- Managers looking to strengthen expertise in strategic shipping operations and compliance
- Career changers with relevant industry experience seeking a recognized UK Level 6 qualification
- Business owners or entrepreneurs managing shipping, logistics, or international trade operations
- Professionals involved in maritime administration, operations planning, or logistics coordination
- Learners preparing for higher-level professional or academic progression in shipping and maritime management
What You’ll Be Able to Do
1. Strategic Shipping and Maritime Management
Learners will be able to:
- Apply advanced management theories to global shipping and maritime organizations.
- Evaluate strategic decision‑making processes in shipping operations and logistics.
- Analyze competitive advantages in international shipping markets.
- Develop leadership and problem‑solving skills for managing shipping enterprises.
- Assess the impact of globalization and digitalization on maritime management.
- Formulate strategies for sustainable growth in shipping and logistics companies.
2. Advanced Maritime Law and Risk Management
Learners will be able to:
- Interpret international maritime conventions, contracts, and compliance frameworks.
- Evaluate the legal responsibilities of shipowners, charterers, and cargo stakeholders.
- Apply knowledge of marine insurance, liabilities, and dispute resolution.
- Analyze risk management strategies in shipping operations and port activities.
- Assess the role of regulatory bodies in enforcing maritime safety and security.
- Demonstrate critical understanding of case studies in maritime law and arbitration.
3. Global Supply Chain and Shipping Logistics
Learners will be able to:
- Analyze the integration of shipping operations within global supply chains.
- Evaluate multimodal transport systems and their role in international trade.
- Apply logistics planning techniques to optimize cost, time, and efficiency.
- Assess the impact of technology and digital platforms on supply chain visibility.
- Demonstrate knowledge of customs procedures, Incoterms, and trade compliance.
- Develop solutions for managing risks and disruptions in global logistics networks.
4. Port Economics and International Trade Policy
Learners will be able to:
- Evaluate the economic role of ports in facilitating global trade and logistics.
- Analyze port pricing, competition, and efficiency models.
- Assess the influence of international trade agreements and policies on shipping.
- Apply knowledge of port development, investment, and infrastructure planning.
- Examine the relationship between port economics and regional economic growth.
- Demonstrate understanding of global trade flows and their impact on maritime transport.
5. Sustainable Shipping and Environmental Management
Learners will be able to:
- Evaluate the environmental impact of shipping operations on oceans and ecosystems.
- Apply knowledge of IMO regulations, MARPOL, and green shipping practices.
- Analyze strategies for reducing emissions, fuel consumption, and carbon footprint.
- Assess the role of innovation and technology in sustainable maritime operations.
- Demonstrate awareness of corporate social responsibility in shipping management.
- Develop sustainability frameworks for long‑term maritime industry compliance.
6. Research Project in Shipping Operations and Management
Learners will be able to:
- Design and conduct independent research on a shipping or logistics topic.
- Apply advanced research methodologies and data analysis techniques.
- Critically evaluate academic and industry sources to support findings.
- Present evidence‑based solutions to real‑world shipping and logistics challenges.
- Demonstrate project management, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
- Produce a professional research report aligned with international academic standards.
