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AVAILABLE SCHEDULED AND ON DEMAND!
Scheduled: Course Starts 3 November 2026, 12 weeks
On-Demand: Start Now!

To support your decision-making, we've gathered the most common questions about the Certificate in Ship Operations.
These FAQs will help you understand how the programme works and what you can expect.

ABOUT THE COURSE

1. What is the Certificate in Ship Technology?

The Certificate in Ship Operations is a 12-week online professional development programme delivered by Lloyd's Maritime Academy. This course is designed to provide a practical understanding of the day-to-day operation of ships and the role of the operations department within shipping organisations. Through six modules, you'll explore vessel and voyage operations, cargo and charter management, commercial operations, crewing, health and safety, environmental management and vessel maintenance.

2. Who teaches the Certificate in Ship Operations?

The Certificate in Ship Operations is led by Evi Plomaritou, a well-known shipping professional with extensive industry expertise. Throughout the scheduled course, Semiramis acts as your dedicated tutor, providing guidance and answering questions through the online discussion forum.

3. Will this course teach me what I need to know about the safe operations of ships?

Yes. Safe ship operations are a central theme throughout the course. You'll explore vessel and voyage operations, cargo management, chartering, crewing, health, safety, security and environmental management, as well as vessel maintenance, helping you understand how ships are operated safely and efficiently within today's maritime industry.

4. Why is understanding ship operations important?

Ship operations bring together the commercial, technical and operational activities needed to run vessels safely and efficiently. Understanding these processes helps maritime professionals coordinate vessel operations, comply with regulations, manage voyages and support the effective day-to-day running of ships.

WHO THE COURSE IS FOR

5. Who is the Ship Operations training course for?

The Certificate in Ship Operations is designed for anyone who needs a greater understanding of ship operations, whether shore-based or shipboard. It is suitable for professionals already working in shipping, industry entrants looking to build operational knowledge, and those wishing to refresh or update their understanding of modern ship operations.

6. Do I need experience before enrolling on the Certificate in Ship Operations?

No prior qualification in ship operations is required. The course provides a practical introduction to ship operations and the role of the operations department, making it suitable for newcomers to the industry as well as experienced professionals wishing to strengthen or formalise their knowledge.

7. Which companies have previously enrolled staff on the Certificate in Ship Operations?

Previous participants have come from organisations including MOL Chile Ltda, Oman Shipping Company SAOC, British Antarctic Survey, Seychelles Petroleum Company Limited and NATO.

8. What career opportunities can the Certificate in Ship Operations support?

The Certificate in Ship Operations is designed to help professionals strengthen their understanding of vessel operations, commercial shipping and operational management. The knowledge gained may support career development in ship operations, technical management, marine operations, consultancy and related maritime roles. It also supports continuing professional development for those already working in the shipping industry.

COURSE FORMAT & DELIVERY

9. Is the Certificate in Ship Operations available on-demand?

Yes. There is an on-demand version of the Certificate in Ship Operations, which allows you to enrol immediately and study at your own pace from anywhere. All modules and assessments are accessible as soon as you join.

10. Can I choose between the scheduled and on-demand versions of the Certificate in Ship Operations?

Yes. You can choose to take the Certificate in Ship Operations either as a scheduled course or as an on-demand course. The scheduled version runs over 14 weeks and includes webinar sessions and an online forum with tutor support. The on-demand version allows you to enrol at any time and complete all modules and assessments at your own pace without live tutor interaction.

11. How does the scheduled version of the Certificate in Ship Operations work?

The scheduled intake of the Certificate in Ship Operations runs over 12 weeks, with six modules released every two weeks. Students also benefit from at least one webinar and an active online forum where they can interact with fellow participants and receive support from the course director.

12. Can I study the Certificate in Ship Operations from anywhere?

Yes. The Certificate in Ship Operations 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 Ship Operations course?

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

14. Does the on-demand Certificate in Ship Operations include tutor support?

The on-demand version of the Certificate in Ship Operations does not include tutor interaction or forum support. Tutor guidance is provided in the scheduled version only.

ASSESSMENT & CERTIFICATION

15. How is the Certificate in Ship Operations assessed?

The Certificate in Ship Operations 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 Ship Operations?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the course assessments, you will receive a Lloyd's Maritime Academy Certificate of Completion. The programme carries 21 CPD hours (2.1 CEUs), which will be recorded on your certificate. It is also recognised for CPD by IMarEST and the Royal Institution for Naval Architects (RINA).

17. When will I receive my Certificate in Ship Operations?

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.

ADMISSIONS, FEES & DEADLINES

18. When does the next Certificate in Ship Operations course start?

The next scheduled intake starts on 3 November 2026 2027. Late applications are accepted until 20 November 2026. The on-demand version can be joined at any time.

19. Can I join the Certificate in Certificate in Ship Operations 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 Certificate in Ship Operations?

The Certificate in Certificate in Ship Operations is priced at £2,099 + VAT/ $2,840, with an early booking fee of £1,889.10 + VAT/ $2,556 (book before 11 September 2026).
EUR pricing is also available at the exchange rate applied on the invoice date.

21. Are group bookings available for the Certificate in Ship Operations?

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

GENERAL INFORMATION

22. Do I need a visa for the Certificate in Ship Operations?

No. The Certificate in Ship Operations is delivered entirely online and does not require a study visa or physical attendance.

23. Is there a similar course to the Certificate in Ship Operations?

Yes. The Certificate in Ship Operations forms part of Lloyd's Maritime Academy's Ship Manning & Operations portfolio. Learners interested in expanding their operational knowledge may also wish to explore the Certificate in Shipping Business, Certificate in Ship Management, Diploma in Ship Management, Diploma in Ship & Port Agency, Dip;loma in Crew Management and many more. These programmes provide complementary knowledge in commercial shipping, ship management and maritime operations.