The global shipping industry is one of the most vital sectors in international trade, requiring highly skilled professionals to manage vessels safely, efficiently, and in compliance with international regulations. The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship Management has been developed to meet these demands, providing advanced knowledge and practical expertise for individuals aiming to progress into senior roles within ship management and maritime operations.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship Management is an advanced vocational qualification, equivalent to a bachelor’s degree level of study, and is designed for professionals who already have technical or maritime experience. It focuses on the strategic, technical, and managerial aspects of ship management, ensuring learners gain both theoretical understanding and practical application. The programme covers a wide range of areas, including advanced marine engineering, ship maintenance planning, international maritime law, safety and environmental management, leadership in technical operations, and sustainability in shipping.
Learners undertaking the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship Management will study six core units, each carrying 20 credits. These units are carefully structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the technical and managerial responsibilities involved in ship management. The curriculum reflects international standards, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet the challenges of modern shipping operations and contribute effectively to the global maritime workforce.
This qualification is particularly suited to experienced maritime professionals who are seeking to advance into supervisory or management positions. It is also valuable for engineers, marine operations specialists, and compliance officers who wish to strengthen their expertise and take on greater responsibility. The diploma is equally relevant for career changers with strong technical backgrounds who are looking to transition into the shipping industry at a senior level.
Entry requirements for the programme generally include a recognised Level 5 qualification in a relevant field, such as marine engineering, logistics, or technical management. Industry experience is highly desirable, as the course builds on existing knowledge and applies it to advanced ship 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 Technical Ship Management are well positioned for senior roles within the maritime sector. Career opportunities include ship superintendent, fleet manager, technical superintendent, safety and compliance manager, and senior roles within ship management companies or classification societies. The qualification also provides a pathway to further study at postgraduate level, including master’s programmes in maritime management, engineering, or logistics.
The shipping industry is evolving rapidly, with increasing emphasis on safety, sustainability, and technological innovation. 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 projects, and contribute to the future of global shipping.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship Management is more than just a qualification; it is a gateway to senior-level opportunities in one of the world’s most demanding and rewarding industries. With its focus on advanced technical knowledge, leadership, and strategic management, the diploma prepares learners to excel in ship management while meeting international standards. For professionals seeking to enhance their careers and make a lasting impact in the maritime sector, this qualification provides the expertise and recognition needed to succeed.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship Management:
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship 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 |
| QC06158 – 1 | Advanced Marine Engineering and Ship Systems | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06158 – 2 | Strategic Safety, Security and Environmental Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06158 – 3 | Ship Maintenance Planning and Asset Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06158 – 4 | International Maritime Law, Compliance and Risk Control | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06158 – 5 | Leadership and Management in Technical Ship Operations | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC06158 – 6 | Innovation, Sustainability and Future Trends in Shipping | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship 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 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 engineering, marine, logistics, or a related technical discipline.
- Applicants with alternative qualifications may be considered if they can demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills.
- Strong grounding in mathematics, science, or technical studies is recommended.
Experience
- Relevant industry experience in shipping, marine engineering, or technical operations is highly desirable.
- Candidates without direct maritime experience may still be admitted if they hold strong technical qualifications.
- Supervisory or project-related experience will be considered an advantage.
Language Proficiency
- Evidence of language proficiency may be required for non-native speakers.g their knowledge in complex offshore environments.
- Learners must be able to communicate effectively in English (or the language of instruction).
- Minimum recommended level: CEFR B2 / IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.
Learning Outcomes: QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship Management
Advanced Marine Engineering and Ship Systems
- Critically evaluate advanced ship propulsion and power systems.
- Analyse the integration of automation and digital technologies on board.
- Apply engineering principles to optimise vessel performance.
- Assess the role of condition monitoring in ship maintenance.
- Develop solutions to complex engineering challenges.
- Evaluate energy efficiency measures in ship operations.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply advanced technical knowledge to case studies.
Strategic Safety, Security and Environmental Management
- Critically assess international frameworks for maritime safety and security.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of safety management systems.
- Analyse environmental risks and propose mitigation strategies.
- Apply advanced risk assessment methodologies to ship operations.
- Develop strategic policies to promote a strong safety culture.
- Critically review compliance requirements across global jurisdictions.
- Demonstrate leadership in implementing sustainable practices.
Ship Maintenance Planning and Asset Management
- Apply advanced planning techniques to ship maintenance programmes.
- Critically evaluate asset management strategies in shipping.
- Develop maintenance schedules that optimise cost and efficiency.
- Analyse the impact of downtime on operational performance.
- Propose strategies for lifecycle management of ship systems.
- Evaluate the role of digital tools in maintenance planning.
- Demonstrate the ability to manage complex maintenance projects.
International Maritime Law, Compliance and Risk Control
- Critically analyse the role of international maritime law in ship management.
- Evaluate the impact of conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW.
- Apply compliance frameworks to technical ship operations.
- Assess the role of classification societies and flag state control.
- Develop strategies to manage legal and regulatory risks.
- Critically review case studies of compliance failures.
- Demonstrate professional competence in applying maritime law.
Leadership and Management in Technical Ship Operations
- Critically evaluate leadership theories in maritime contexts.
- Demonstrate the ability to lead diverse, multicultural ship management teams.
- Apply strategic decision-making to technical 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 technical operations.
Innovation, Sustainability and Future Trends in Shipping
- Critically evaluate the role of sustainability in ship management.
- Analyse the impact of renewable energy and alternative fuels on shipping.
- Assess the potential of emerging technologies in ship operations.
- Develop strategies to reduce the environmental footprint of vessels.
- Critically review global energy policies and their implications for shipping.
- Propose innovative solutions to address future maritime challenges.
- Demonstrate awareness of ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Technical Ship 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 technical expertise, leadership, and strategic 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 engineering.
- Professionals seeking to formalise their experience with a qualification.
- Candidates aiming to progress into supervisory or management roles.
- Offshore or shipping 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 management. It equips learners with advanced knowledge of engineering, compliance, and leadership, ensuring they can manage complex operations in line with international standards. By completing the Level 6 Diploma, learners gain a globally recognised qualification that supports career progression, international opportunities, and further postgraduate study.