1. What is the Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is a professional development programme designed to provide purchasing and supply professionals in the maritime industry with the skills, knowledge, and expertise required to manage procurement, contracting, and supply processes effectively. It offers a comprehensive understanding of marine purchasing, including supply chain management, supplier negotiation, inventory control, and legal frameworks. The course is tailored for individuals in ship owning, operating, and management companies, as well as ship suppliers and maritime service providers, ensuring they are equipped to optimise supply chain potential, balance cost and risk, and meet the evolving demands of the maritime sector with confidence and professionalism.

2. What will I learn in the Diploma in Marine Purchasing course?

The Diploma in Marine Purchasing course provides participants with a structured and practical learning experience, equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to manage procurement, contracting, and supply processes in the maritime industry. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including supply chain management, supplier negotiation, inventory control, risk management, and legal frameworks. Participants will gain the ability to optimise supply chain potential, balance cost and risk, manage supplier relationships, and apply advanced purchasing strategies, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the maritime sector with confidence and professionalism.

3. Why is understanding purchasing important for my work?

Understanding purchasing is important for your work because it equips you with the ability to manage procurement processes, optimise supply chains, and ensure the efficient flow of materials and services in the maritime industry. Purchasing involves critical aspects such as cost management, supplier negotiation, inventory control, and risk assessment. This knowledge enables you to address industry-specific challenges, support operational efficiency, and contribute to the success and sustainability of maritime operations. By mastering purchasing skills, you can enhance your professional credibility, expand your career opportunities, and play a pivotal role in optimising the supply chain and procurement strategies within the maritime sector.

4. Who teaches the Diploma in Marine Purchasing course?

Bharat Hora, a Chief Engineer with over 30 years of maritime experience. Bharat began his career with the Shipping Corporation of India as a junior engineer in 1980 and has since held senior management positions in various countries, including Canada, the USA, Singapore, Australia, and India. His expertise spans ship management, marine consultancy, and training. Currently, he works independently as a vessel auditor, maritime trainer, and new building consultant. Bharat is a member of IMarEST, the Supply Chain Management Association of Canada, and a life member of the Institute of Marine Engineers (India) and the Institution of Naval Architects (India). His extensive experience ensures a comprehensive and practical learning experience for participants.

5. Does this diploma cover managing purchasing operations and supply chain responsibilities?

Yes. Managing purchasing operations and supply chain responsibilities are at the centre of the diploma. You'll learn the strategic and operational skills needed by purchasing professionals in the shipping sector — covering how a purchasing department functions, how to manage suppliers and contracts, and how marine purchasing integrates with the broader supply chain to deliver goods and services efficiently.

6. Who is the marine purchasing diploma for?

The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is for purchasing professionals, supply chain professionals, and procurement managers working within the shipping sector. It suits those responsible for managing purchasing operations across a purchasing department — from sourcing and supplier management through to contract execution — who want a thorough and practical qualification in marine purchasing.

7. Do I need experience before enrolling in the Diploma in Marine Purchasing course?

No, you don't have to have relevant experience if instead you can provide a minimum achievement of A-Level or equivalent (High School). The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is suitable for both beginners in the subject, looking to fast track into their career or to switch maritime expertise or for experienced maritime professionals who want to formalise or deepen their understanding in purchasing practice.

8. Which companies have previously enrolled staff in the Diploma in Marine Purchasing course?

Participants in the Diploma in Marine Consultancy have come from organisations such as Pacific International Lines, Purus Wind Fleet Management Ltd, Stolt Tankers B.V, NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited, Nothern Marine Group Ltd & AMP Clean Energy.

9. What career opportunities can the Diploma in Marine Purchasing support?

The Diploma in Marine Purchasing can support career progression into roles such as purchasing and procurement specialists, supply chain managers, and commercial officers within the maritime industry. It also opens opportunities in ship management, shipyard operations, and roles within manufacturing and service supply to the maritime sector. Additionally, the qualification can pave the way for positions in legal, insurance, and financial support related to maritime purchasing, enhancing your expertise and professional standing in the field of marine procurement and supply chain management.

10. How does the scheduled version of the Diploma in Marine Purchasing work?

The scheduled intake of the Diploma in Marine Purchasing runs over 12 months, with modules released every month. Students also benefit from an active online forum where they can interact with fellow participants and receive support from the course director investigating real-world case studies and applications.

11. Can I study the Diploma in Marine Purchasing from anywhere?

Yes. The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is delivered fully online and can be accessed globally. No travel or in-person attendance is required.

12. How much time do I need for the Diploma in Marine Purchasing course?

Each module in the Diploma in Marine Purchasing requires approximately 10 hours of study, which is around 1–2 hours per week during the scheduled intake.

13. How is the Diploma in Marine Purchasing assessed?

The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is assessed through 3 TMAs and one case study.

14. Do I receive a qualification after completing the Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

Yes. Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Marine Purchasing, you will receive a diploma certification of completion.

15. When will I receive my Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

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

16. Is there an accrediting body for this Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

Yes. This is an academic course from Lloyds Maritime Academy and North Kent College. Students receive a diploma at the end upon successful completion of the assessments.

17. When does the next Diploma in Marine Purchasing course start?

The next intake for the Diploma in Marine Purchasing is the 30th September 2026.

18. Can I join the Diploma in Marine Purchasing late?

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

19. What is the fee for the Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is priced at £4,099 + VAT / $5,535 with an early booking fee of £3,509 + VAT / $4,563.
EUR pricing is also available at the exchange rate applied on the invoice date.

20. Are group bookings available for the Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

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

21. Can I pay the course fee in instalments?

Yes, there is an instalment plan in place to reduce financial constraint, with 3 installments. If you require more support please contact our Education Consultant.

22. Do I need a visa for the Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

No. The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is delivered entirely online and does not require a study visa or physical attendance.

23. Is there a similar course to the Diploma in Marine Purchasing?

Yes. The Diploma in Marine Purchasing is part of the Management and Leadership portfolio offered by Lloyd’s Maritime Academy. Within this portfolio, you can find several related programmes that cover similar subject areas, including courses focused on Leadership, Ship Finance, Shipping Markets & Commercial Management. These programmes provide complementary knowledge for anyone looking to expand their understanding of maritime purchasing and its applications in the maritime industry.