The maritime industry is a cornerstone of global trade, relying on skilled professionals to manage ship crews effectively and ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operations. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management has been designed to meet the growing demand for advanced leadership and management skills in this sector. This qualification provides learners with the expertise required to oversee crew operations, implement international standards, and lead diverse teams in complex maritime environments.
The diploma is an advanced vocational qualification, equivalent to a bachelor’s degree level of study, and is aimed at professionals who already have experience in the maritime industry. It focuses on the strategic, managerial, and compliance aspects of crew management, ensuring that learners are equipped to handle the challenges of modern shipping operations. The programme covers a wide range of areas, including advanced crew resource management, international labour standards, maritime safety and security, leadership in multicultural environments, compliance with international conventions, and innovation in human resource practices.
Learners undertaking the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management will study six core units, each carrying 20 credits. These units are carefully structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities involved in managing shipboard personnel at a senior level. The curriculum reflects international standards, ensuring that graduates are prepared to contribute effectively to global shipping operations and meet the expectations of employers worldwide.
This qualification is particularly suited to experienced maritime professionals who are seeking to progress into senior crew management or human resource roles within shipping companies, crewing agencies, or classification societies. It is also valuable for ship officers, compliance managers, and marine operations specialists who wish to strengthen their leadership and regulatory expertise. The diploma is equally relevant for career changers with strong technical or managerial backgrounds who are looking to transition into the maritime sector at a senior level.
Entry requirements for the programme generally include a recognised Level 5 qualification in a relevant field, such as maritime management, logistics, or human resource management. Industry experience is highly desirable, as the course builds on existing knowledge and applies it to advanced crew management contexts. Proficiency in English is essential, with learners expected to demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in technical and professional settings.
Graduates of the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management are well positioned for senior roles within the maritime sector. Career opportunities include crew manager, fleet personnel superintendent, compliance officer, training and development manager, and senior roles within ship management companies or international crewing organisations. The qualification also provides a pathway to further study at postgraduate level, including master’s programmes in maritime management, human resources, or global logistics.
The shipping industry is evolving rapidly, with increasing emphasis on safety, compliance, and effective human resource management. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma equips learners with the skills to meet these challenges, combining academic rigour with practical relevance. By completing this qualification, learners demonstrate their ability to lead teams, manage complex crew operations, and contribute to the future of global shipping.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management is more than just a qualification; it is a gateway to senior-level opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic and essential industries. With its focus on advanced leadership, compliance, and strategic crew management, the diploma prepares learners to excel in maritime operations while meeting international standards. For professionals seeking to enhance their careers and make a lasting impact in the shipping sector, this qualification provides the expertise and recognition needed to succeed.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management:
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management 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 |
| QC06160 – 1 | Advanced Crew Resource Management and Leadership | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06160 – 2 | Strategic Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06160 – 3 | International Labour Law, Compliance and Risk Control | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06160 – 4 | Crew Training, Development and Performance Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06160 – 5 | Multicultural Team Leadership and Conflict Resolution | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06160 – 6 | Innovation, Sustainability and Future Trends in Crew Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 19 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- Some employers or jurisdictions may require learners to be 21+ for senior shipboard or management roles.
- Proof of age and identity may be requested during admission.
Educational Background
- A recognised Level 5 qualification (such as a Higher National Diploma, Foundation Degree, or equivalent) in maritime management, logistics, human resources, or a related discipline.
- Applicants with alternative qualifications may be considered if they can demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills.
- Strong grounding in management, compliance, or technical studies is recommended.
Experience
- Relevant industry experience in shipping, crew management, or human resource operations is highly desirable.
- Candidates without direct maritime experience may still be admitted if they hold strong technical or managerial qualifications.
- Supervisory or project-related experience will be considered an advantage.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must be able to communicate effectively in English (or the language of instruction).
- Minimum recommended level: CEFR B2 / IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.
- Evidence of language proficiency may be required for non-native speakers.
Learning Outcomes: QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management
Advanced Principles of Ship Crew Management
- Critically evaluate advanced theories of crew management.
- Analyse the relationship between crew performance and operational outcomes.
- Apply strategic approaches to crew deployment and retention.
- Assess the impact of globalisation on crew management practices.
- Develop solutions to complex crew management challenges.
- Evaluate the role of digitalisation in crew management systems.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply advanced knowledge to case studies.
Strategic Maritime Safety and Security Management
- Critically assess international frameworks for maritime safety and security.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of safety management systems.
- Analyse security risks and propose mitigation strategies.
- Apply advanced risk assessment methodologies to crew operations.
- Develop strategic policies to promote a strong safety culture.
- Critically review compliance requirements across global jurisdictions.
- Demonstrate leadership in implementing sustainable safety practices.
International Labour Law, Compliance and Crew Welfare
- Critically analyse the role of international labour law in crew management.
- Evaluate the impact of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC).
- Apply compliance frameworks to crew welfare and rights.
- Assess the role of flag states and international organisations.
- Develop strategies to manage legal and regulatory risks.
- Critically review case studies of labour law compliance failures.
- Demonstrate professional competence in applying international labour law.
Crew Training, Development and Performance Management
- Critically evaluate training frameworks for seafarers.
- Apply advanced methods of competency-based training and assessment.
- Develop strategies for continuous professional development.
- Analyse the impact of training on safety and operational performance.
- Propose innovative approaches to crew training and retention.
- Evaluate the role of technology in training delivery.
- Demonstrate leadership in managing crew performance.
Leadership, Communication and Multicultural Team Management
- Critically evaluate leadership theories in maritime contexts.
- Demonstrate the ability to lead diverse, multicultural ship crews.
- Apply strategic decision-making to crew management challenges.
- Assess the role of communication in maintaining operational efficiency.
- Develop strategies to manage conflict and promote collaboration.
- Evaluate the impact of leadership on safety culture and performance.
- Demonstrate professional competence in managing multicultural teams.
Global Maritime Conventions, Risk and Regulatory Frameworks
- Critically analyse the role of international conventions in crew management.
- Evaluate the impact of SOLAS, STCW, ISM, ISPS, and MLC on crew operations.
- Apply compliance frameworks to technical and crew management contexts.
- Assess the role of classification societies and port state control.
- Develop strategies to manage regulatory and reputational risks.
- Critically review global case studies of compliance and enforcement.
- Demonstrate advanced competence in applying international frameworks.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Crew Management is designed for professionals who already have technical knowledge or industry experience and are ready to progress into senior roles. It focuses on advanced leadership, compliance, and strategic crew management, preparing learners for supervisory and managerial positions in ship management companies and maritime organisations.
Experienced Maritime Professionals
- Individuals already working in ship management or marine operations.
- Professionals seeking to formalise their experience with a qualification.
- Candidates aiming to progress into supervisory or management roles.
- Shipping or offshore workers preparing for leadership responsibilities.
- Professionals looking to enhance their employability globally.
- Learners motivated to align with international maritime standards.
- Those seeking recognition for advanced technical competence.
Aspiring Managers and Supervisors
- Technicians aiming to move into team leadership roles.
- Candidates preparing for shipboard or shore-based management positions.
- Individuals seeking to develop advanced decision-making skills.
- Professionals who want to strengthen leadership capabilities.
- Learners interested in managing safety, logistics, and operations.
- Those preparing to lead multi-disciplinary maritime teams.
- Candidates motivated by career progression into senior roles.
International Learners and Global Professionals
- Candidates from regions with expanding shipping industries.
- Professionals seeking qualifications recognised worldwide.
- Learners preparing for roles in multinational shipping companies.
- Individuals aiming to meet global safety and compliance standards.
- Professionals motivated by opportunities for international mobility.
- Learners who want to strengthen technical English and reporting skills.
- Candidates preparing for careers in global maritime leadership.
This diploma is designed for ambitious professionals who want to advance into senior technical and managerial roles in ship crew management. It equips learners with advanced knowledge of compliance, leadership, and international labour law, ensuring they can manage complex operations in line with global standards. By completing the Level 6 Diploma, learners gain a globally recognised qualification that supports career progression, international opportunities, and further postgraduate study.