1. What is the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is a 12-week online professional development programme delivered by Lloyd's Maritime Academy. Through six modules, you'll explore the fundamentals of Big Data and data management before examining how data can be applied across shipping operations.

The course covers areas including ship efficiency, energy and engine management, voyage optimisation, predictive maintenance, data collation and storage, cybersecurity and data protection, as well as future applications of Big Data in shipping.

2. Who teaches the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is led by Dr Theodosis (Theo) Mourouzis, a cryptologist and information security professional with experience across academia and industry. He holds a PhD in Information Security with a specialisation in Cryptography from University College London and has an academic background in mathematics from the University of Cambridge.

Throughout the scheduled course, Theo will provide support and answer questions through the online forum.

3. Does the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping cover vessel performance and voyage optimisation?

Yes. The course explores how Big Data can be applied to practical ship operations, including engine management, voyage optimisation, predictive maintenance, energy management, ship efficiency and fuel consumption. You'll learn how shipping data can be used to better understand vessel performance and support more informed operational decisions.

4. Why is Big Data important in shipping?

Shipping generates large amounts of operational, technical and commercial data. Used effectively, this data can help organisations better understand vessel performance, optimise voyages and energy management, manage fuel consumption and support predictive maintenance.

The course also explores the wider implications of Big Data for shipping, including data ownership and protection, cybersecurity, insurance, law and trade, as well as emerging applications such as autonomous shipping.

5. Who is the Big Data in Shipping training course for?

Shipping generates large amounts of operational, technical and commercial data. Used effectively, this data can help organisations better understand vessel performance, optimise voyages and energy management, manage fuel consumption and support predictive maintenance.

The course also explores the wider implications of Big Data for shipping, including data ownership and protection, cybersecurity, insurance, law and trade, as well as emerging applications such as autonomous shipping.

6. Do I need experience before enrolling on the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

No specific prior qualification is stated for the course. The programme starts with an introduction to Big Data and data management before progressing into shipping-specific applications. Some familiarity with the maritime industry, shipping operations, data, technology or management may help you relate the course material to your professional work, but a specialist background in data science is not specified as an entry requirement.

7. Which companies have previously enrolled staff on the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

Previous participants have come from organisations including Rederiet Stenersen, Thomas Miller & Co, Wärtsilä, Vale, FESCO, Stag Marine, Triton Navigation, Picenes Logistics and BP.

Participants have held roles ranging from Senior Analyst and Senior Digital Product Owner to Vice President IT, Chief Technology Officer and Marine Operations Supervisor.

8. What career opportunities can the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping support?

The knowledge developed through the course may be relevant to roles in data and analytics, IT, operations, technical and commercial management, chartering, finance and senior maritime management. The certificate is designed to develop your understanding of Big Data and its applications within shipping. It does not qualify you for a specific role, and individual positions may require additional professional experience or qualifications.

9. Is the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping available on-demand?

Yes. The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is available as both a scheduled course and an On-Demand programme. The On-Demand version can be started at any time and provides six months of access in which to complete the course.

10. Can I choose between the scheduled and on-demand versions of the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

Yes. You can choose to study the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping as either a scheduled or On-Demand course.

The scheduled programme runs over 12 weeks, with modules released at regular intervals and access to a dedicated online forum where you can interact with your tutor and fellow participants. The On-Demand version allows you to start at any time and work through the modules and assessments at your own pace within six months.

11. How does the scheduled version of the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping work?

The scheduled course runs over 12 weeks and consists of six online modules released at regular intervals.

You'll work through the course materials online and have access to a dedicated discussion forum where you can interact with fellow participants and receive support from the Course Director. You'll also receive a daily email summarising forum activity, making it easier to follow discussions and participate.

Each module includes an online test to assess your understanding.

12. Can I study the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping from anywhere?

Yes. The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is delivered fully online and can be accessed globally. No travel or in-person attendance is required.

13. How much time do I need for the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping course?

Each module in the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping requires approximately 3-4 hours of study, which is around 1-2 hours per week during the scheduled intake.

14. Does the on-demand Certificate in Big Data in Shipping include tutor support?

The on-demand version of the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is designed for independent, self-paced study and does not include the tutor interaction and online forum support available with the scheduled programme.

15. How is the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping assessed?

The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is assessed through online tests at the end of each module. A score of 70% is required to progress to the next module.

16. Do I receive a qualification after completing the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the course assessments, you will receive a Lloyd's Maritime Academy Certificate of Completion. The programme carries 22 CPD hours (2.2 CEUs), which will be recorded on your certificate.

17. When will I receive my Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

You will receive your certificate once all assessments have been completed and your marks and mailing details have been confirmed. Certificates are issued after the full course has concluded.

18. When does the next Certificate in Big Data in Shipping course start?

The next scheduled intake starts on 15 October 2026. Late applications are accepted until 29 October 2026. The on-demand version can be joined at any time.

19. Can I join the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping late?

Yes. Late applications are accepted for the scheduled intake up to two weeks after the official start date, although you may need to catch up on released modules.

20. What is the fee for the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is priced at £2,099 + VAT/ $2,840, with an early booking fee of £1,889.10 + VAT/ $2,556 (book before 21 August 2026).
EUR pricing is also available at the exchange rate applied on the invoice date.

21. Are group bookings available for the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

Yes. Group bookings and referrals are welcome and may qualify for preferential pricing.
Contact us to discuss the group booking discount.

22. Do I need a visa for the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

No. The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping is delivered entirely online and does not require a study visa or physical attendance.

23. Is there a similar course to the Certificate in Big Data in Shipping?

Yes. The Certificate in Big Data in Shipping forms part of Lloyd's Maritime Academy's Maritime Maritime Technology and Innovation portfolio. Learners interested in expanding their technical knowledge may also wish to explore the Certificate in Smart Shipping, Certificate in Maritime Artificial Intelligence, and Diploma in Digital Transformation in Shipping.