The maritime industry plays a vital role in global trade, requiring skilled professionals to manage ships safely, efficiently, and in compliance with international regulations. The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management has been developed to provide learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to begin a career in this specialised field. This qualification is designed to meet international standards, making it suitable for learners who wish to enter the shipping industry or progress within technical and operational roles.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management introduces learners to the fundamentals of ship management, focusing on technical operations, safety, compliance, and maintenance. It provides a structured pathway for individuals who want to understand how ships are managed from a technical perspective, including the systems, processes, and responsibilities involved in ensuring vessels remain seaworthy and compliant with international maritime conventions.
Learners undertaking the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management will study a range of core areas that reflect the demands of the industry. These include ship structure and systems, marine engineering basics, safety and environmental management, maintenance planning, compliance with international maritime law, and effective communication in technical reporting. Each unit is designed to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring that learners are prepared for real-world challenges in ship management.
This qualification is particularly suited to school leavers, aspiring seafarers, and individuals seeking an entry-level route into the maritime sector. It is also valuable for those already working in related industries, such as logistics or port operations, who wish to gain a recognised qualification in ship management. By completing this diploma, learners will develop the technical awareness and operational knowledge required to support shipboard and shore-based management teams.
Entry requirements for the programme are designed to ensure accessibility while maintaining academic standards. Learners are generally expected to be at least 16 years of age and to have completed secondary education or its equivalent. No prior maritime experience is required, although an interest in shipping, engineering, or global trade is highly recommended. Proficiency in English is essential, as learners must be able to understand technical documentation and communicate effectively in a professional context.
Graduates of the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management can progress to higher-level qualifications, such as Level 4 or Level 5 diplomas in maritime or logistics management. They may also pursue entry-level roles within ship management companies, shipping agencies, or marine operations departments. The qualification provides a strong foundation for those who wish to build a long-term career in the maritime industry, with opportunities to specialise further in engineering, compliance, or operational management.
The shipping industry continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on safety, sustainability, and technological innovation. The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management equips learners with the knowledge and skills to meet these challenges, ensuring they are prepared to contribute effectively to the global maritime workforce. By completing this qualification, learners gain not only a recognised credential but also the confidence to pursue rewarding careers in one of the world’s most essential industries.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management:
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management is a 60-credit qualification with a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). This program is meticulously crafted to deliver focused and efficient skill development in the field of project management.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC06157 – 1 | Introduction to Technical Ship Management | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06157 – 2 | Ship Structure, Systems and Maintenance | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06157 – 3 | Marine Engineering Fundamentals | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06157 – 4 | Safety, Security and Environmental Protection | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06157 – 5 | International Maritime Regulations and Compliance | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC06157 – 6 | Workplace Communication and Technical Reporting | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 16 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- Some employers or training providers may require learners to be 18+ for shipboard placements.
- Proof of age and identity may be requested during admission.
Educational Background
- Completion of secondary education (equivalent to GCSEs/O-Levels or Grade 10).
- Applicants without formal qualifications may be accepted based on an internal assessment.
- A foundation in mathematics, science, or technical subjects is recommended.
Experience
- No prior maritime or ship management experience is required.
- An interest in shipping, engineering, or global trade is desirable.
- Candidates with vocational or technical training will be considered an advantage.
Language Proficiency
- Evidence of language proficiency may be required for non-native speakers.
- Learners must be able to study and communicate effectively in English (or the language of instruction).
- Minimum recommended level: CEFR B1 / IELTS 4.5 or equivalent.
Learning Outcomes: QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management
Introduction to Technical Ship Management
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the purpose and scope of technical ship management.
- Identify the roles and responsibilities within a ship management team.
- Describe the relationship between ship owners, managers, and crew.
- Recognise the importance of compliance with international maritime standards.
- Demonstrate awareness of the operational lifecycle of a vessel.
- Apply basic terminology used in ship management.
- Relate technical ship management to global shipping operations.
Ship Structure, Systems and Maintenance
- Identify the main structural components of a ship.
- Describe the function of key shipboard systems.
- Recognise common maintenance requirements for vessels.
- Apply basic inspection and reporting procedures.
- Explain the importance of planned maintenance systems.
- Demonstrate awareness of dry-docking and repair processes.
- Relate ship maintenance to safety and operational efficiency.
Marine Engineering Fundamentals
- Describe the principles of marine propulsion systems.
- Identify the main components of marine engines.
- Explain the function of auxiliary machinery on board.
- Recognise the importance of fuel and lubrication systems.
- Apply basic fault-finding and reporting procedures.
- Demonstrate awareness of energy efficiency in ship operations.
- Relate engineering systems to overall vessel performance.
Safety, Security and Environmental Protection
- Identify common hazards in shipboard operations.
- Explain the principles of maritime safety management.
- Recognise the role of international conventions such as SOLAS and MARPOL.
- Apply safe working practices in ship operations.
- Demonstrate awareness of shipboard security measures.
- Describe pollution prevention measures in shipping.
- Contribute to a positive safety and environmental culture.
International Maritime Regulations and Compliance
- Identify key international maritime organisations and conventions.
- Explain the role of flag states, port states, and classification societies.
- Recognise the importance of compliance in ship management.
- Describe the certification and inspection process for vessels.
- Apply knowledge of ISM and ISPS codes in practical contexts.
- Demonstrate awareness of crew certification requirements.
- Relate compliance to safe and efficient ship operations.
Workplace Communication and Technical Reporting
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication in maritime contexts.
- Use technical terminology accurately in reports and discussions.
- Prepare clear and concise technical reports.
- Apply appropriate formats for incident and operational reporting.
- Recognise the importance of accurate record-keeping.
- Demonstrate teamwork and interpersonal communication skills.
- Use digital tools to support workplace communication.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Technical Ship Management is designed for individuals who are beginning their journey into the maritime industry. It provides a strong foundation in ship systems, safety, and compliance, making it suitable for learners with little or no prior experience. This qualification is ideal for those who want to gain entry-level knowledge and skills that will prepare them for further study or junior roles in ship management.
School Leavers and Aspiring Seafarers
- Individuals completing secondary education with an interest in shipping.
- Learners seeking a vocational pathway into the maritime sector.
- Students motivated by practical, applied learning.
- Young people aiming for entry-level roles in ship operations.
- Candidates who want to explore ship management as a career.
- Learners interested in engineering, logistics, or global trade.
- Those preparing for further maritime or technical study.
Entry-Level Maritime Professionals
- Individuals working in ports, shipping agencies, or logistics.
- Candidates seeking to formalise their knowledge with a qualification.
- Learners aiming to progress from support roles into ship management.
- Professionals motivated by career development in shipping.
- Those who want to strengthen their understanding of ship systems.
- Learners preparing for technical or operational responsibilities.
- Candidates seeking to improve employability in international shipping.
Career Changers and New Entrants
- Professionals from other industries seeking a new career path.
- Individuals motivated by opportunities in global trade.
- Candidates retraining for roles in shipping or logistics.
- Learners aiming to transfer technical skills into maritime contexts.
- Professionals seeking a recognised qualification to support transition.
- Those interested in practical, industry-focused training.
- Candidates who want to enter a high-demand global sector.
This diploma is ideal for learners at the start of their maritime careers. It provides the technical awareness, safety knowledge, and compliance understanding needed to support shipboard and shore-based teams. By completing the Level 3 Diploma, learners gain a recognised qualification that opens doors to entry-level roles and progression to higher-level maritime studies.