The QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law is a professionally developed qualification aimed at individuals looking to deepen their knowledge of international maritime legislation and regulatory frameworks. As the global maritime industry becomes increasingly complex and governed by international conventions, legal literacy is essential for professionals working across shipping, port operations, compliance, and marine policy.
This Level 2 Award builds on foundational knowledge and provides practical insight into key legal instruments, enforcement mechanisms, and operational compliance standards relevant to maritime stakeholders worldwide.
As maritime operations face growing scrutiny related to safety, pollution prevention, and legal accountability, the Level 2 Award empowers participants to navigate the complex web of international regulations with greater confidence and competence.
In today’s interconnected maritime economy, legal awareness is not optional—it’s essential. The QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law equips you with the practical legal tools needed to operate within a compliant, safe, and globally regulated maritime environment.
Take the next step in your professional journey. Enroll today and strengthen your role in the global maritime sector.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law :
The QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law, offers 4 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 16 hours, including 12 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC06096-1 | Advanced Study of MARPOL and Marine Environmental Protection | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| QC06096-2 | Legal Responsibilities of Shipowners and Operators under International Law | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| QC06096-3 | Port State Control and International Compliance Enforcement Mechanisms | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| QC06096-4 | Carriage of Goods by Sea and International Transport Conventions | 1 | 3 | 4 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law:
To enroll in the QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law, following are requirement:
Educational Requirements
- A Level 1 qualification in maritime studies, international law, or a related field (such as the QualCert Level 1 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law),
OR - Relevant professional experience in the maritime, legal, port operations, or international logistics sectors.
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in English is essential, with a recommended minimum of CEFR Level B2 (Intermediate to Upper-Intermediate level), as the course is delivered and assessed in English.
Recommended Background
While not mandatory, the following background will support successful learning:
- A basic understanding of maritime conventions and regulatory structures.
- Familiarity with shipping operations, legal documentation, or port procedures.
Learning Outcomes of QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law:
Unit 1: Advanced Study of MARPOL and Marine Environmental Protection
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the objectives and structure of the MARPOL Convention and its key annexes.
- Identify the main sources of marine pollution from ships and the legal obligations for prevention.
- Analyze the responsibilities of flag states, port states, and shipowners in enforcing MARPOL standards.
- Evaluate shipboard procedures and compliance measures for minimizing environmental impact.
Unit 2: Legal Responsibilities of Shipowners and Operators under International Law
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify the primary international legal duties of shipowners and operators in relation to vessel safety, crew management, and environmental protection.
- Interpret key legal instruments that assign liability for damage, loss, or non-compliance (e.g., Hague-Visby Rules, Athens Convention).
- Understand contractual obligations and risk allocation in charter parties and ship operation agreements.
- Assess how failure to meet international obligations can result in civil, administrative, or criminal penalties.
Unit 3: Port State Control and International Compliance Enforcement Mechanisms
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Describe the role of Port State Control (PSC) in enforcing international maritime standards.
- Identify common areas of inspection under SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW conventions.
- Explain the legal authority of port states to detain or penalize non-compliant vessels.
- Evaluate inspection procedures, deficiency reports, and the impact of PSC detention on vessel operations and reputation.
Unit 4: Carriage of Goods by Sea and International Transport Conventions
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Describe the legal frameworks governing the carriage of goods by sea, including the Hague-Visby, Hamburg, and Rotterdam Rules.
- Interpret the rights and liabilities of carriers, shippers, and consignees under international conventions.
- Understand the legal significance of bills of lading, sea waybills, and charter parties in international shipping.
- Analyze contractual and documentary issues commonly encountered in marine cargo transport and dispute resolution.
The QualCert Level 2 Award in International Convention and Maritime Law, is ideal for:
Maritime Compliance and Legal Professionals
- Individuals working in maritime law firms, marine insurance, or regulatory bodies who require a deeper understanding of international legal obligations.
- Junior legal advisors, paralegals, or compliance officers dealing with vessel operations, cargo claims, or regulatory audits.
Shipping, Port, and Logistics Personnel
- Professionals in shipping companies, port authorities, or freight forwarding who interact with international maritime regulations.
- Ship operators, superintendents, and marine managers seeking insight into Port State Control, environmental compliance, and cargo law.
Students and Graduates
- Those pursuing studies in maritime law, international trade, logistics, or transport management who wish to enhance their qualifications with a recognized legal credential.
Government and Regulatory Stakeholders
- Staff from maritime administrations, customs, coastguards, or environmental agencies who need to apply or interpret international conventions such as MARPOL, SOLAS, and UNCLOS.