The shipping and logistics industry is the backbone of international trade, ensuring the smooth movement of goods across borders and supporting the global economy. For professionals aiming to progress into senior roles, the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics offers an advanced qualification that combines strategic knowledge with practical application. This programme is designed to equip learners with the expertise required to manage complex shipping operations and global logistics networks.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics provides a comprehensive understanding of ship management, covering areas such as operational strategies, safety compliance, and environmental regulations. Learners also explore the intricacies of global supply chain management, gaining the ability to optimise logistics systems and respond to the challenges of international trade. By integrating both ship management and logistics, the qualification ensures graduates are prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving maritime sector.
A key feature of the programme is its focus on strategic planning and leadership. Learners develop advanced skills in negotiation, client relationship management, and decision-making, all of which are essential for senior roles in shipping companies, logistics firms, and port operations. The course also addresses shipping economics and finance, providing the knowledge needed to interpret market trends, manage risks, and support long-term business growth.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics is structured to meet international standards, with a balance of guided learning and independent study. Learners are encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world case studies, ensuring they can translate academic learning into professional practice. The inclusion of a research project allows participants to investigate a specialist area of interest, further enhancing their analytical and problem-solving skills.
Career opportunities for graduates of this diploma are diverse and rewarding. Successful learners may progress into roles such as ship managers, chartering executives, compliance specialists, logistics directors, or maritime consultants. The qualification also provides a pathway to postgraduate study in maritime law, international trade, or supply chain management, making it a valuable stepping stone for continued professional development.
As global trade continues to expand and adapt to new challenges, the demand for highly skilled professionals in ship management and logistics is increasing. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma equips learners with the advanced knowledge, leadership capabilities, and strategic insight required to thrive in this competitive industry. For those seeking to establish themselves as leaders in maritime operations and logistics, this qualification represents a significant step forward in their career journey.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics:
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics 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 |
| QC06152 – 1 | Advanced Ship Management and Operational Strategies | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06152 – 2 | Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Compliance | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06152 – 3 | Global Supply Chain Management and Logistics Optimisation | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06152 – 4 | Shipping Economics, Finance and Strategic Planning | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06152 – 5 | Leadership, Negotiation and Client Relationship Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06152 – 6 | Research Project in Ship Management and Logistics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be 21 years of age or above at the start of the programme, reflecting the senior academic and professional level of study.
Educational Background
- A Level 5 Diploma or equivalent qualification in shipping, logistics, business, trade, or management.
- Alternatively, a recognised undergraduate degree in maritime studies, business administration, economics, or international trade.
- Applicants without formal academic 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, port operations, or international trade.
- Candidates should be able to evidence their professional competence through a CV, references, or portfolio of work.
- Learners 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 Ship Management and Logistics
Advanced Ship Management and Operational Strategies
- Critically evaluate advanced principles of ship management and operations
- Analyse strategies for optimising vessel performance and efficiency
- Apply international regulations and standards to ship operations
- Assess the impact of technology and digitalisation on ship management
- Develop solutions for operational challenges in global shipping
- Integrate safety, cost, and performance considerations into decision-making
- Demonstrate the ability to manage complex ship operations strategically
Maritime Safety, Security and Environmental Compliance
- Understand international frameworks governing maritime safety and security
- Evaluate the role of IMO conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM Code
- Apply knowledge of safety and environmental compliance to shipping operations
- Assess strategies for preventing accidents, pollution, and security breaches
- Analyse case studies of maritime safety and security incidents
- Develop risk management approaches for shipping companies
- Demonstrate the ability to implement effective compliance systems
Global Supply Chain Management and Logistics Optimisation
- Critically analyse the role of shipping in global supply chains
- Evaluate strategies for optimising logistics and cargo flows
- Apply advanced knowledge of multimodal transport systems
- Assess the impact of globalisation and trade agreements on logistics
- Develop solutions for supply chain disruptions and bottlenecks
- Integrate sustainability and digitalisation into logistics strategies
- Demonstrate the ability to manage complex international logistics networks
Shipping Economics, Finance and Strategic Planning
- Understand the economic principles underpinning global shipping markets
- Analyse the impact of supply and demand on freight rates and chartering
- Evaluate financial models for ship operations and investment decisions
- Apply knowledge of shipping finance, insurance, and risk management
- Assess the role of strategic planning in shipping company growth
- Interpret economic data to support decision-making in maritime business
- Demonstrate the ability to align financial planning with long-term strategy
Leadership, Negotiation and Client Relationship Management
- Apply advanced leadership theories to maritime and logistics contexts
- Evaluate negotiation strategies for complex shipping contracts
- Develop effective communication skills for client relationship management
- Assess the role of ethics and professionalism in leadership decisions
- Demonstrate the ability to manage multicultural and international teams
- Apply conflict resolution techniques in maritime business environments
- Strengthen client trust and long-term partnerships through effective management
Research Project in Ship Management and Logistics
- Formulate a research question relevant to ship management and logistics
- Apply appropriate research methodologies to investigate industry issues
- Critically analyse primary and secondary sources of maritime knowledge
- Evaluate the implications of research findings for professional practice
- Demonstrate advanced academic writing and referencing skills
- Present evidence-based conclusions in a structured research report
- Reflect on the research process and its contribution to professional development
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Ship Management and Logistics is designed for professionals who aspire to advance their careers in the maritime and logistics industries. It is particularly suited to individuals who already have experience in shipping, logistics, or international trade and are ready to progress into senior management or specialist roles. This qualification equips learners with advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic insight to thrive in a competitive global industry.
1. Senior Ship Managers and Operations Leaders
- Strengthen expertise in advanced ship management strategies
- Gain confidence in overseeing complex vessel operations
- Apply international regulations to daily management practices
- Improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness in ship operations
- Develop leadership skills for managing large teams
- Enhance decision-making in safety and compliance matters
- Position themselves for executive-level roles in ship management
2. Maritime Safety and Compliance Specialists
- Deepen knowledge of international safety and environmental conventions
- Apply IMO regulations such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM Code
- Strengthen ability to manage compliance frameworks
- Analyse case studies of safety and security incidents
- Develop risk management strategies for maritime operations
- Enhance credibility as compliance and safety advisors
- Prepare for senior compliance and regulatory roles
3. Global Supply Chain and Logistics Professionals
- Gain advanced insight into international supply chain systems
- Apply optimisation strategies to logistics and cargo flows
- Understand the impact of globalisation on maritime logistics
- Develop solutions for supply chain disruptions and bottlenecks
- Integrate sustainability and digitalisation into logistics strategies
- Strengthen ability to manage multimodal transport networks
- Position themselves as leaders in global logistics operations
4. Shipping Economists and Strategic Planners
- Understand the economics of global shipping markets
- Analyse freight rates, chartering, and market cycles
- Apply financial models to shipping investment decisions
- Strengthen knowledge of shipping finance and insurance
- Develop long-term strategic plans for shipping companies
- Interpret economic data to support business growth
- Enhance decision-making in shipping economics and planning
5. Business Development and Client Relationship Managers
- Strengthen negotiation skills for complex shipping contracts
- Build long-term trust with international clients
- Apply legal and ethical considerations to client management
- Improve communication in multicultural business environments
- Develop strategies for managing high-value client portfolios
- Enhance ability to resolve conflicts and maintain partnerships
- Support business growth through effective relationship management
6. Career Changers with Maritime Experience
- Transition from technical maritime roles into management positions
- Gain structured knowledge of ship management and logistics
- Apply existing maritime experience to commercial contexts
- Build confidence for new career pathways in shipping leadership
- Strengthen employability in international trade and logistics
- Develop skills for consultancy or advisory roles
- Use the diploma as a stepping stone to postgraduate study
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 logistics
- 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 Ship Management and Logistics is ideal for ambitious professionals who want to excel in the maritime and logistics sectors. It provides advanced knowledge of ship operations, supply chain optimisation, economics, compliance, and leadership, ensuring learners are prepared for senior roles in global trade. By combining academic rigour with practical application, the diploma equips learners with the skills to influence international shipping and logistics. Whether you are a ship manager, compliance specialist, logistics professional, or international learner, this qualification offers a career-defining opportunity to stand out in the competitive world of maritime management.