The carriage of goods by sea is one of the most significant areas of international trade, forming the backbone of global commerce and supply chains. Understanding the legal frameworks that govern this sector is essential for professionals who wish to operate at a senior level in shipping, logistics, or maritime law. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law is designed to provide advanced knowledge and practical expertise, equipping learners with the skills to navigate complex legal issues in the shipping industry.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law builds on foundational knowledge and introduces learners to advanced principles of maritime law, focusing on contracts of carriage, charter parties, bills of lading, and international conventions. It also explores dispute resolution, arbitration, and risk management, ensuring that learners are prepared to handle the challenges of modern shipping operations. By combining theoretical study with practical application, the programme ensures that graduates are capable of applying legal principles to real-world scenarios in global trade.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law content is structured to cover a wide range of specialist areas. Learners will study advanced principles of carriage of goods by sea, the legal frameworks surrounding charter parties, and the legal status and functions of bills of lading. They will also examine international conventions such as the Hague-Visby, Hamburg, and Rotterdam Rules, comparing their impact on carriers, shippers, and consignees. Additional focus is placed on risk management, insurance, and dispute resolution, providing learners with the tools to address legal and commercial challenges effectively.
One of the key strengths of the QualCert Level 6 Diploma is its emphasis on research and independent learning. Learners undertake a research project in carriage of goods by sea law, allowing them to explore a specialist area of interest in depth. This not only develops critical thinking and analytical skills but also enhances professional credibility by demonstrating the ability to produce evidence-based insights relevant to the maritime industry.
The diploma is delivered through approved centres that provide structured support, modern resources, and guidance from experienced tutors. With a balance of guided learning hours and independent study, learners are encouraged to develop both academic and professional competencies. The qualification is aligned with international standards, making it a valuable credential for those seeking to progress into senior roles within shipbroking firms, shipping companies, logistics organisations, or legal practices specialising in maritime law.
Graduates of the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law will be well-positioned to pursue careers as senior shipbrokers, chartering managers, maritime legal consultants, or compliance specialists. The knowledge and skills gained through this programme not only enhance employability but also provide a pathway to further study, including postgraduate qualifications in maritime law or international trade.
As global trade continues to evolve in response to economic shifts, environmental regulations, and technological innovation, the demand for highly skilled professionals in carriage of goods by sea law is set to grow. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma offers learners the opportunity to develop advanced expertise, strengthen their professional profile, and contribute to the future of international shipping and trade. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law represents a significant step forward for ambitious professionals seeking to establish themselves as leaders in the maritime sector.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law:
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law several study units designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of QC principles and practices in the software sector. Below is the qualification structure, including the Total Qualification Time (TQT) 1200, Guided Learning Hours (GLH) 600, and 120 Credits associated with the program.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC06150 – 1 | Advanced Principles of Carriage of Goods by Sea | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06150 – 2 | Charter Parties: Legal Frameworks and Commercial Practice | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06150 – 3 | Bills of Lading: Legal Status, Functions and Liabilities | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06150 – 4 | International Conventions and Comparative Analysis (Hague-Visby, Hamburg, Rotterdam) | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06150 – 5 | Risk Management, Insurance and Dispute Resolution in Maritime Law | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06150 – 6 | Research Project in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be 19 years of age or above at the start of the programme, reflecting the advanced academic and professional level of study.
Educational Background
- A Level 5 Diploma or equivalent qualification in shipping, logistics, business, trade, or law.
- Alternatively, a recognised undergraduate degree in maritime studies, business management, economics, or international trade.
- Applicants without formal qualifications may still be considered if they can demonstrate substantial professional experience in the maritime or logistics sector.
Professional Experience
- At least 2–3 years of relevant professional experience in shipping, logistics, maritime operations, or international trade.
- Candidates should be able to evidence their professional competence through a CV, references, or portfolio of work.
- Those with less experience but strong academic backgrounds may be admitted at the discretion of the awarding body or centre.
Language Proficiency
Learners who have previously studied or worked in an English-speaking environment may be exempt from formal testing.
Recommended benchmarks:
- IELTS 6.0 or equivalent (with no component below 5.5).
- Other recognised English language qualifications may be accepted.
As the qualification is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate strong proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English.
Learning Outcomes: QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law
Advanced Principles of Carriage of Goods by Sea
- Critically evaluate the legal foundations of carriage of goods by sea
- Analyse the contractual obligations of carriers and shippers
- Assess the implications of seaworthiness and due diligence requirements
- Apply advanced principles to complex shipping scenarios
- Interpret case law and precedents relevant to carriage of goods by sea
- Examine the allocation of risks and liabilities in maritime contracts
- Demonstrate the ability to apply legal theory to practical industry contexts
Charter Parties: Legal Frameworks and Commercial Practice
- Explain the different types of charter parties and their applications
- Analyse the legal obligations of owners and charterers under charter agreements
- Evaluate the commercial implications of time, voyage, and bareboat charters
- Interpret key clauses within charter party contracts
- Assess the role of arbitration and dispute resolution in charter party conflicts
- Apply knowledge of charter parties to real-world case studies
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of risk allocation in chartering practices
Bills of Lading: Legal Status, Functions and Liabilities
- Explain the legal functions of bills of lading as a receipt, contract, and document of title
- Analyse the evidentiary role of bills of lading in international trade
- Evaluate the liabilities of carriers and rights of holders under bills of lading
- Compare traditional and electronic bills of lading in modern shipping
- Interpret case law relating to bills of lading disputes
- Apply knowledge of bills of lading to practical shipping transactions
- Demonstrate critical understanding of the role of bills of lading in global commerce
International Conventions and Comparative Analysis (Hague-Visby, Hamburg, Rotterdam)
- Summarise the key provisions of Hague-Visby, Hamburg, and Rotterdam Rules
- Compare the differences in liability regimes across the conventions
- Evaluate the impact of each convention on carriers, shippers, and consignees
- Analyse the effectiveness of international conventions in harmonising maritime law
- Apply comparative analysis to case studies involving different legal frameworks
- Assess the continuing relevance of older conventions in modern trade
- Demonstrate critical insight into the evolution of international maritime law
Risk Management, Insurance and Dispute Resolution in Maritime Law
- Identify the key risks associated with the carriage of goods by sea
- Evaluate the role of marine insurance in mitigating commercial risks
- Analyse the principles of general average and salvage in maritime law
- Assess the effectiveness of arbitration, mediation, and litigation in dispute resolution
- Apply knowledge of risk management strategies to shipping operations
- Interpret insurance contracts and their implications for carriers and shippers
- Demonstrate the ability to recommend appropriate dispute resolution mechanisms
Research Project in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law
- Formulate a research question relevant to maritime law and practice
- Apply appropriate research methodologies to investigate legal issues
- Critically analyse primary and secondary sources of maritime law
- Evaluate the implications of research findings for industry practice
- Demonstrate advanced academic writing and referencing skills
- Present evidence-based conclusions in a structured research report
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law is designed for professionals who want to advance their expertise in maritime law and the legal frameworks that govern international shipping. It is particularly suited to individuals already working in the maritime, logistics, or legal sectors who are ready to progress into senior roles. This programme provides advanced knowledge, analytical skills, and professional credibility for those aiming to influence decision-making in global trade and shipping operations.
1. Senior Shipbrokers and Chartering Managers
- Deepen understanding of advanced carriage of goods by sea law
- Strengthen expertise in charter parties and commercial practice
- Gain confidence in handling complex legal negotiations
- Improve ability to interpret and apply international conventions
- Enhance credibility when advising clients and stakeholders
- Develop skills to manage high-value shipping contracts
- Position themselves for leadership roles in shipbroking firms
2. Maritime Legal Professionals
- Expand knowledge of international maritime conventions
- Strengthen expertise in dispute resolution and arbitration
- Gain advanced insight into bills of lading and liabilities
- Apply legal frameworks to real-world shipping disputes
- Build credibility as a specialist in maritime law
- Develop analytical skills for complex casework
- Prepare for consultancy or higher-level legal practice
3. Logistics and Trade Specialists
- Understand the legal frameworks underpinning global trade
- Strengthen knowledge of contracts and documentation
- Gain insight into risk management and insurance practices
- Apply legal knowledge to logistics and supply chain operations
- Improve compliance with international shipping regulations
- Enhance career prospects in multinational trade organisations
- Bridge the gap between logistics practice and maritime law
4. Compliance and Risk Managers
- Develop expertise in managing legal and commercial risks
- Strengthen understanding of marine insurance principles
- Gain skills in dispute resolution and arbitration processes
- Apply international conventions to compliance frameworks
- Improve ability to advise on regulatory requirements
- Enhance organisational resilience against legal disputes
- Position themselves as trusted compliance leaders
5. Business Development and Client Managers
- Strengthen negotiation and client management skills
- Gain insight into ethical and legal considerations in shipping
- Apply knowledge of contracts to client relationships
- Improve ability to manage international client portfolios
- Build trust and credibility with global stakeholders
- Enhance communication skills in legal and commercial contexts
- Support long-term business growth through legal expertise
6. Career Changers with Maritime Experience
- Transition from technical maritime roles into legal/commercial positions
- Gain structured knowledge of carriage of goods by sea law
- Understand the legal implications of vessel operations
- Apply existing maritime experience to legal frameworks
- Build confidence for new career pathways in shipping law
- Strengthen employability in international trade and logistics
- Use the diploma as a stepping stone to consultancy or management
7. International Learners Seeking Global Recognition
- Obtain a qualification aligned with UK and international standards
- Gain knowledge applicable to global shipping practices
- Strengthen career prospects in home and overseas markets
- Understand international conventions shaping maritime law
- Build a foundation for postgraduate or professional study
- Enhance employability in multinational organisations
- Position themselves as globally recognised maritime professionals
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Carriage of Goods by Sea Law is designed for ambitious professionals who want to excel in the maritime and legal sectors. It provides advanced knowledge of contracts, conventions, risk management, and dispute resolution, ensuring learners are prepared for senior roles in shipping, logistics, and law. By combining academic rigour with practical application, the diploma equips learners with the skills to influence global trade and maritime operations. Whether you are a shipbroker, legal professional, compliance manager, or international learner, this qualification offers a career-defining opportunity to stand out in the competitive world of maritime law.