LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Law

The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Law is a professionally developed qualification designed for individuals who want to build a solid foundation in international maritime and shipping law. Whether you are a beginner exploring the legal aspects of global trade or a professional seeking to enhance your career in the maritime industry, this diploma offers the perfect balance of practical learning and theoretical understanding.

This UK-accredited Level 3 Maritime Law Diploma covers essential areas such as the carriage of goods by sea, marine insurance, admiralty law, and international maritime conventions. Learners gain an in-depth understanding of how laws regulate shipping operations, vessel ownership, cargo claims, and dispute resolution in the global maritime sector. It’s an ideal starting point for those looking to enter roles related to maritime management, shipping operations, or marine insurance.

The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Law introduces learners to the legal frameworks that govern international shipping, helping them understand key concepts like maritime contracts, liabilities, and compliance requirements. The course combines real-world case studies with legal principles to make learning both engaging and practical.

Designed for professionals, beginners, and career changers, this qualification allows learners to grasp the complexities of maritime law without requiring prior legal experience. It also opens doors for further progression to higher-level maritime and shipping law diplomas, making it a valuable addition to your academic and professional journey.

By completing this diploma, learners gain the knowledge and confidence needed to analyze maritime legal issues, manage compliance risks, and contribute effectively within the global maritime industry. The program’s flexible and industry-relevant structure ensures that every learner can apply their understanding directly to real-world shipping and trade challenges.

Course Overview

Qualification Title

LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Law

Total Units

6

Total Credits

60

GLH

240

Qualification #

LICQ2201305

Qualification Specification

Download Qualification Specification

To enroll in the LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Law, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
  • Educational Requirements: A secondary school qualification or equivalent is recommended for entry into this Level 3 Diploma. Learners with prior studies in law, business, or shipping will find the course especially beneficial.
  • Experience: No formal work experience is required to join the program. However, professionals in shipping, logistics, or legal support roles may gain immediate practical value from the diploma.
  • English Language Proficiency: Applicants must have a good command of the English language. Non-native English speakers should demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0 or CEFR Level B1 to ensure effective participation and comprehension.

Qualification#

Unit Title

Credits

GLH

LICQ2201305-1

Introduction to Maritime Law and Legal Systems

10

40

LICQ2201305-2

Carriage of Goods by Sea

10

40

LICQ2201305-3

Admiralty Jurisdiction and Ship Ownership

10

40

LICQ2201305-4

Marine Insurance Principles

10

40

LICQ2201305-5

International Conventions in Maritime Law

10

40

LICQ2201305-6

Dispute Resolution in Maritime Law

10

40

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

Unit 1: Introduction to Maritime Law and Legal Systems

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the foundations of maritime law and its role in international trade and shipping.
  • Identify the structure and functions of national and international legal systems governing maritime activities.
  • Demonstrate understanding of key legal principles such as jurisdiction, liability, and contractual obligations.
  • Compare common law and civil law approaches to maritime disputes.
  • Apply basic legal terminology and concepts to real-world maritime scenarios.
  • Evaluate the importance of maritime law in ensuring safe and lawful global commerce.

Unit 2: Carriage of Goods by Sea

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Describe the legal framework governing contracts of carriage and bills of lading.
  • Analyze the rights and responsibilities of carriers, shippers, and consignees.
  • Interpret international conventions such as Hague-Visby and Hamburg Rules in relation to carriage of goods.
  • Assess liability issues arising from loss, damage, or delay of cargo.
  • Apply legal principles to case studies involving multimodal transport and shipping contracts.
  • Evaluate the impact of carriage of goods law on international trade efficiency.

Unit 3: Admiralty Jurisdiction and Ship Ownership

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the scope of admiralty jurisdiction and its significance in maritime disputes.
  • Identify legal processes for ship registration, ownership, and flag state control.
  • Analyze the rights and obligations of shipowners under international law.
  • Evaluate the procedures for ship arrest, salvage, and maritime liens.
  • Apply admiralty principles to case studies involving ownership disputes.
  • Assess the role of admiralty courts in enforcing maritime claims globally.

Unit 4: Marine Insurance Principles

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the purpose and scope of marine insurance in international shipping.
  • Identify different types of marine insurance policies and their applications.
  • Analyze the principles of insurable interest, utmost good faith, and indemnity.
  • Evaluate claims processes and settlement procedures in marine insurance.
  • Apply legal principles to case studies involving cargo loss, hull damage, or liability claims.
  • Assess the role of marine insurance in managing risk and ensuring trade security.

Unit 5: International Conventions in Maritime Law

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Identify key international conventions such as UNCLOS, SOLAS, MARPOL, and Rotterdam Rules.
  • Explain the role of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in global maritime governance.
  • Analyze the impact of conventions on safety, environmental protection, and trade regulation.
  • Apply convention principles to case studies involving compliance and enforcement.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of international conventions in harmonizing maritime law.
  • Demonstrate awareness of emerging global challenges and regulatory responses in maritime law.

Unit 6: Dispute Resolution in Maritime Law

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Explain the different methods of dispute resolution including arbitration, mediation, and litigation.
  • Analyze the advantages and limitations of alternative dispute resolution in maritime cases.
  • Apply legal principles to case studies involving shipping disputes and contractual conflicts.
  • Evaluate the role of international arbitration centers in resolving maritime claims.
  • Demonstrate understanding of enforcement of awards and judgments across jurisdictions.
  • Assess the importance of effective dispute resolution in maintaining global trade stability.

The LICQual UK Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Law is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their expertise in shipping, trade, and legal frameworks. It is particularly valuable for those seeking career advancement, transitioning into maritime law, or enhancing their role in global trade and logistics. This diploma provides practical knowledge that can be directly applied in professional environments, making it ideal for individuals aiming to expand their career opportunities in the maritime and legal sectors.

Shipping and Logistics Professionals

  • Gain legal knowledge to complement operational expertise in shipping and freight.
  • Understand contracts, liabilities, and compliance in international trade.
  • Improve decision‑making in cargo handling and transport agreements.
  • Strengthen career prospects in global logistics and supply chain management.
  • Bridge the gap between commercial operations and maritime law.

Legal Assistants and Paralegals

  • Develop specialized knowledge in maritime and shipping law.
  • Support legal teams handling carriage of goods and admiralty cases.
  • Enhance research and drafting skills for maritime legal documentation.
  • Gain credibility with a UK‑accredited maritime law qualification.
  • Position yourself for advancement in legal support roles.

Seafarers and Marine Officers

  • Understand the legal responsibilities of shipowners and crew.
  • Learn about ship registration, ownership rights, and admiralty jurisdiction.
  • Strengthen compliance with international maritime conventions.
  • Improve career mobility within shipping companies and maritime agencies.
  • Gain recognition for professional development in maritime law.

Insurance and Risk Management Professionals

  • Acquire expertise in marine insurance principles and claims handling.
  • Understand risk allocation in shipping contracts and cargo transport.
  • Strengthen compliance with international insurance regulations.
  • Apply legal knowledge to real‑world insurance disputes.
  • Enhance credibility in underwriting and claims management roles.

International Trade and Business Executives

  • Learn how maritime law impacts global trade and supply chains.
  • Understand carriage of goods regulations and liability frameworks.
  • Strengthen compliance with international shipping conventions.
  • Improve contract negotiation and risk management skills.
  • Gain a competitive edge in international business operations.

Port and Terminal Managers

  • Understand the legal aspects of port operations and cargo handling.
  • Strengthen compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
  • Manage disputes related to shipping, cargo, and logistics.
  • Apply maritime law knowledge to improve operational efficiency.
  • Enhance leadership credibility in port and terminal management.

Career Changers Entering Maritime and Legal Sectors

  • Transition into maritime law with a structured, accredited qualification.
  • Gain practical knowledge applicable to shipping, trade, and logistics.
  • Build confidence in handling contracts, disputes, and compliance issues.
  • Strengthen employability in international maritime organizations.
  • Position yourself for new career opportunities in law and shipping.

Assessment and Verification

All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.

Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.