1. What is the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis?

The Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis is a professional development programme offered by Lloyd’s Maritime Academy. It is designed to equip participants with a systematic approach to understanding, analysing, and forecasting shipping markets. The course focuses on providing practical skills to write effective market reports and make informed decisions based on market dynamics.

2. What will I learn in the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis course?

Participants in this course will gain knowledge on defining and analysing shipping markets, collecting and interpreting data, and understanding the macroeconomic factors that influence these markets. The course also covers supply and demand dynamics, asset market analysis, including freight and time charter markets, and teaches participants how to write reviews, forecasts, and effective market reports.

2-1. Does this course cover vessel equipment and emissions regulations?

Yes. The course covers vessel equipment and the emissions regulations that shape today's shipping markets, alongside deployment and trading patterns and the structure of the world shipping fleet. You'll learn how regulatory and equipment factors influence demand, supply and freight rates, so you can analyse and forecast the market with confidence.

3. Why is understanding shipping markets important for my work?

Understanding shipping markets is crucial for professionals in international trade, shipping, banking, insurance, and related industries. It enables them to make informed decisions, manage risks effectively, and identify opportunities in a highly dynamic and competitive environment.

4. Who teaches the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis course?

The course is led by Mark Williams, the founder and managing director of Shipping Strategy Ltd. With over 23 years of experience in market analysis, commercial relationships, and consultancy, Mark is a seasoned professional in the shipping industry. He is also a frequent speaker at industry conferences and a guest lecturer at universities.

5. Who is the Shipping Markets Analysis course for?

The Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis is for shipping analysts, brokers, charterers, ship owners, finance and investment professionals, and commercial maritime managers who need to research, forecast and report on the global shipping market. It also suits early-career professionals who want to understand the world shipping fleet, deployment and trading patterns, and the forces driving shipping markets.

6. Do I need experience before enrolling in the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis course?

No prior experience is required to enrol in this course. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals who wish to formalise or deepen their understanding of shipping market analysis.

7. Which companies have previously enrolled staff in the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis course?

The course supports career progression into roles such as ship financier, ship manager, operations manager, broker, analyst, and port operations manager. It provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to excel in these positions.

8. What career opportunities can the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis support?

The course supports career progression into roles such as ship financier, ship manager, operations manager, broker, analyst, and port operations manager. It provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to excel in these positions.

9. Is the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis available on-demand?

Yes. There is an on-demand version of the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis, 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 Shipping Markets Analysis?

Yes. You can choose to take the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis either as a scheduled course or as an on-demand course. The scheduled version runs over 12 weeks with modules released every two 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 Shipping Markets Analysis work?

The scheduled intake of the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis runs over 12 weeks, with 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 Shipping Markets Analysis from anywhere?

Yes. The Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis 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 Shipping Markets Analysis course?

Each module in the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis 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 Shipping Markets Analysis include tutor support?

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

15. How is the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis assessed?

The Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis 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 Shipping Markets Analysis?

Yes, upon successful completion, you will receive a certificate of completion with 24 CPD hours and is equivalent to Level 4 in terms of depth, breadth, and academic rigour.

17. When will I receive my Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis?

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 Shipping Markets Analysis course start?

The next scheduled intake begins on 2 September 2026. Late applications are accepted until 16 September 2026. The on-demand version can be joined at any time.

19. Can I join the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis 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 Shipping Markets Analysis?

The Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis is priced at £2,099 + VAT / $2,840, with an early booking fee of £1,889.10 + VAT / $2,556.
EUR pricing is also available at the exchange rate applied on the invoice date.

21. Are group bookings available for the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis?

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 Shipping Markets Analysis?

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

23. Is there a similar course to the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis?

Yes, the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis is part of the Management & Leadership portfolio offered by Lloyd’s Maritime Academy. Related courses in this portfolio focus on strategic decision-making, market analysis, and operational leadership in the maritime industry.

24. Why is the Certificate in Shipping Markets Analysis unique?

This course is unique because it provides a practical guide to systematically analysing shipping markets and writing effective market reports. It is based on the course director’s 20+ years of experience and offers insights into real-world applications of market analysis.