The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics is an advanced qualification designed for professionals who are ready to progress into senior roles within the global shipping and logistics industry. Shipping and logistics are the backbone of international trade, ensuring the smooth movement of goods across borders and supporting the global economy. This diploma equips learners with the strategic knowledge, leadership skills, and operational expertise required to manage complex shipping and logistics operations in line with international standards.
The programme is structured to provide a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing learners to address the challenges of modern shipping and logistics. Areas of study typically include strategic shipping and logistics management, global trade and regulatory compliance, advanced port and cargo logistics, risk and crisis management, innovation and digital transformation, and a research project in shipping and logistics operations. This combination ensures that graduates are not only equipped with advanced technical knowledge but also with the ability to lead, innovate, and make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving industry.
The course is delivered through six mandatory units, each worth twenty credits, totalling 120 credits. Learners complete 600 guided learning hours and 1200 total qualification hours. This structure reflects international higher education standards and ensures that learners develop the depth of knowledge and critical thinking skills required for senior-level responsibilities.
Entry requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics reflect its advanced nature. Applicants are normally expected to hold a Level 5 qualification in shipping, logistics, business, or a related discipline. Equivalent international qualifications are accepted, and mature learners with significant industry experience may also be considered through recognised prior learning routes. Proficiency in English is essential, with non-native speakers required to demonstrate competence through qualifications such as IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
Graduates of this diploma are well-positioned for a wide range of senior roles within the shipping and logistics sector. Career opportunities include shipping operations manager, logistics director, port services manager, compliance officer, and international trade consultant. The qualification also provides a strong foundation for progression to postgraduate study or professional certifications in shipping, logistics, or supply chain management. With the shipping and logistics industry continuing to expand globally, the demand for highly skilled professionals remains strong, making this diploma a valuable investment in career development.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics is more than just an academic qualification. It is a pathway to leadership in one of the most strategically important industries in the world. By completing this programme, learners gain the advanced skills, strategic insight, and professional credibility needed to succeed in senior roles. For those who are passionate about shipping and logistics and committed to achieving excellence, this diploma offers the ideal platform for long-term career success.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics:
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping 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 |
| QC06144 – 1 | Strategic Shipping and Logistics Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06144 – 2 | Global Trade, Maritime Law and Regulatory Compliance | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06144 – 3 | Advanced Port and Cargo Logistics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06144 – 4 | Risk, Crisis and Emergency Management in Shipping and Logistics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06144 – 5 | Innovation and Digital Transformation in Shipping and Logistics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06144 – 6 | Research Project in Shipping and Logistics Operations | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of enrolment.
- This reflects the advanced nature of the qualification and the maturity required for senior-level study and professional responsibilities.
Educational Background
- Applicants should normally hold a Level 5 qualification (or equivalent) in shipping, logistics, business, supply chain, or a related discipline.
- Equivalent international qualifications are accepted, provided they demonstrate comparable academic rigour.
- Candidates with strong academic or vocational backgrounds in maritime studies, transport, or logistics will be well-prepared for the demands of the programme.
Experience
- Relevant industry experience is highly desirable, particularly in shipping operations, port services, cargo logistics, or international trade.
- Mature learners with significant professional experience but without formal academic qualifications may be considered through a recognised prior learning (RPL) route.
- Experience in supervisory, operational, or compliance-focused roles within shipping or logistics will strengthen applications and support progression into leadership-focused units.
Language Proficiency
- As the qualification is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate competence in written and spoken English.
- Non-native speakers are expected to provide evidence such as:
- An IELTS score of 6.0 (with no band lower than 5.5), or
- Equivalent English language qualifications, or
- Successful completion of prior education in English.
- This ensures learners can engage effectively with technical documentation, international trade regulations, and academic assessments.
In summary, the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics is aimed at learners with a solid academic foundation, relevant industry experience, and the ability to operate in an international maritime and logistics context. The entry requirements balance accessibility with the need to maintain academic and professional standards, ensuring that learners are well-prepared to succeed at this advanced level.
Learning Outcomes: QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics
Global Trade, Maritime Law and Regulatory Compliance
- Critically analyse the principles of international trade and their impact on shipping and logistics
- Interpret and apply international maritime law, conventions, and regulatory frameworks
- Evaluate the role of global organisations such as IMO, WTO, and UNCTAD in shaping compliance standards
- Assess the implications of non-compliance for shipping companies and global trade operations
- Develop strategies to ensure organisational adherence to international trade and maritime regulations
- Examine case studies of regulatory breaches to identify lessons for industry practice
- Balance operational efficiency with legal and ethical responsibilities in global shipping
Advanced Port and Cargo Logistics
- Design and evaluate strategies to optimise port and cargo logistics operations
- Apply advanced logistics and supply chain principles to large-scale maritime operations
- Assess the impact of globalisation and trade flows on port and cargo management
- Critically evaluate the role of technology in enhancing efficiency and accuracy in cargo handling
- Develop solutions to address complex challenges in port congestion, turnaround, and cargo flow
- Integrate sustainability and innovation into port and cargo logistics strategies
- Analyse the effectiveness of port and cargo systems in supporting international trade
Risk, Crisis and Emergency Management in Shipping and Logistics
- Apply advanced risk assessment methodologies to shipping and logistics operations
- Evaluate the effectiveness of crisis management frameworks in maritime and logistics contexts
- Develop contingency and emergency response plans for a range of operational scenarios
- Analyse the role of communication and leadership in crisis response and recovery
- Assess the resilience of shipping and logistics organisations under high-pressure conditions
- Critically evaluate case studies of crisis and emergency management in the industry
- Formulate strategic recommendations to strengthen organisational preparedness and resilience
Innovation and Digital Transformation in Shipping and Logistics
- Evaluate the role of emerging technologies in transforming shipping and logistics operations
- Analyse the impact of digitalisation on supply chain efficiency and customer service
- Assess the benefits and risks of automation, AI, blockchain, and smart logistics systems
- Examine the role of cybersecurity in protecting digital shipping and logistics platforms
- Develop strategies for adopting innovative technologies in maritime and logistics services
- Critically evaluate the integration of digital platforms in global trade operations
- Recommend digital transformation initiatives that align with international industry standards
Research Project in Shipping and Logistics Operations
- Identify and define a research problem relevant to shipping and logistics management
- Conduct a comprehensive literature review to establish a research framework
- Apply appropriate research methodologies and data collection techniques
- Analyse and interpret data to draw evidence-based conclusions
- Critically evaluate findings in relation to industry best practice and academic theory
- Present research outcomes in a structured and professional format
- Develop practical recommendations to improve shipping and logistics operations
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics is designed for professionals who are ready to advance their careers in one of the most strategically important industries in the world. This qualification provides advanced knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic insight into shipping operations, logistics management, and international trade. It is particularly suited to individuals with prior experience in the sector who are seeking to progress into senior management and leadership roles.
Experienced Shipping and Logistics Professionals
- Individuals currently working in shipping or logistics operations seeking career progression
- Professionals aiming to move into supervisory or management positions
- Staff with operational experience who want to formalise their expertise with a recognised qualification
- Learners motivated to enhance their leadership and decision-making skills
- Shipping employees seeking to broaden their knowledge of international standards
- Those wishing to strengthen their professional credibility in the logistics sector
- Individuals preparing for senior-level responsibilities in shipping and supply chain management
Aspiring Maritime and Logistics Managers
- Learners aiming to transition from operational roles into management positions
- Individuals motivated by the challenge of leading large teams in complex environments
- Professionals seeking to develop strategic planning and leadership skills
- Those preparing for roles such as shipping operations manager or logistics director
- Learners who want to influence organisational policies and procedures
- Individuals aspiring to shape the future of shipping and logistics services
- Professionals committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence
Career Changers with Relevant Backgrounds
- Professionals from logistics, transport, or international trade seeking to enter shipping
- Individuals with transferable skills in supply chain or operations management
- Learners motivated to apply their existing expertise to maritime contexts
- Those wishing to formalise prior experience with an advanced qualification
- Career changers seeking international opportunities in shipping and logistics
- Individuals aiming to strengthen their CV with a globally recognised diploma
- Professionals looking for a structured pathway into maritime leadership
International Learners and Global Professionals
- Students from outside the UK seeking qualifications aligned with international standards
- Professionals aiming to work in shipping companies across different regions of the world
- Learners motivated by opportunities in global trade and maritime hubs
- Individuals seeking qualifications that support international career mobility
- Professionals preparing for roles in multinational shipping and logistics firms
- Learners wishing to progress to postgraduate study in maritime management
- Those seeking to align their skills with IMO and international trade frameworks
Compliance and Risk Specialists
- Individuals aiming to specialise in maritime safety and regulatory compliance
- Professionals preparing for roles in quality assurance and compliance monitoring
- Learners motivated to understand IMO, SOLAS, and MARPOL frameworks in depth
- Those wishing to balance operational efficiency with strict safety standards
- Professionals seeking to develop expertise in risk management and crisis response
- Individuals preparing for compliance-focused leadership roles in shipping
- Learners aiming to contribute to safer, more secure maritime and logistics operations
Innovators and Digital Transformation Leaders
- Professionals motivated by digital transformation in shipping and logistics
- Learners seeking to integrate technology into maritime operations
- Individuals aiming to lead innovation projects in cargo and logistics services
- Professionals preparing for roles in digitalisation and process improvement
- Those wishing to explore the impact of AI, blockchain, and automation in logistics
- Learners motivated to drive efficiency and sustainability in shipping operations
- Professionals committed to shaping the future of logistics through innovation
Research-Oriented Professionals
- Learners interested in conducting applied research in shipping and logistics
- Professionals aiming to contribute to academic and industry knowledge
- Individuals motivated to explore solutions to complex maritime challenges
- Learners preparing for postgraduate study or specialised research roles
- Professionals seeking to publish or present findings in maritime forums
- Those wishing to apply evidence-based approaches to operational improvements
- Learners committed to advancing best practice in shipping and logistics management
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Shipping and Logistics is designed for ambitious professionals who want to take their careers to the next level. It is ideal for experienced staff, aspiring managers, career changers, and international learners who are motivated to lead, innovate, and ensure compliance in one of the most strategically important industries in the world. By completing this qualification, learners gain advanced skills, strategic insight, and professional credibility needed to succeed in senior roles. For those committed to excellence in shipping and logistics, this diploma provides the perfect platform for long-term career growth and global opportunities.