The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Refinery Operations is a prestigious three-year, 360-credit programme designed to equip learners with the advanced knowledge, technical expertise, and professional competence needed to succeed in the refinery and petroleum industry.
This qualification blends theoretical principles with practical applications, preparing learners to manage refinery operations, optimise processes, and take on strategic leadership roles in a globally competitive sector.
Why Choose This Diploma?
The petroleum refining industry is one of the most technically complex and strategically vital sectors in the global economy. Skilled professionals are in high demand to manage operations, improve efficiency, and ensure sustainability.
By enrolling in this diploma, learners will:
- Gain expertise in crude processing, distillation, hydrocracking, catalytic cracking, and petrochemical production.
- Master process optimisation, safety management, and energy efficiency techniques.
- Develop leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills to handle real-world refinery challenges.
- Earn an internationally recognised qualification that enhances career prospects across the energy sector.
Programme Structure
The diploma consists of 36 mandatory units delivered across three years.
Year 1 – Foundation in Refinery Operations
- Principles of Chemical Engineering
- Introduction to Petroleum Refining
- Crude Oil Properties and Analysis
- Refinery Process Units Overview
- Distillation Principles and Applications
- Heat and Mass Transfer in Refining
- Introduction to Catalysts and Chemical Reactions
- Process Instrumentation and Control Basics
- Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness
- Industrial Laboratory Techniques
- Technical Report Writing
- Introduction to Process Simulation Software
Year 2 – Intermediate Refinery Operations
- Advanced Distillation and Separation Techniques
- Hydrocracking and Hydrotreating Processes
- Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Operations
- Process Control and Automation in Refineries
- Energy Management and Efficiency in Refining
- Reactor Design and Optimisation
- Process Safety Management
- Refinery Production Planning
- Quality Control and Assurance in Refining
- Environmental Management and Sustainability
- Petroleum Product Blending Techniques
- Data Analysis and Technical Communication
Year 3 – Advanced Refinery Operations
- Advanced Process Optimisation and Troubleshooting
- Refinery Project Management
- Catalysts and Reaction Kinetics in Depth
- Advanced Process Simulation and Modelling
- Corrosion and Maintenance in Refineries
- Energy Transition and Cleaner Refining Technologies
- Risk Assessment and Hazard Analysis
- Advanced Laboratory Techniques and Process Testing
- Supply Chain and Logistics in Refining
- Capstone Project in Refinery Operations
- Professional Development and Leadership in Energy
- Strategic Decision-Making in Refinery Management
Entry Requirements
To enroll in this diploma, learners must meet the following:
- Age Requirement: Minimum 18 years at the time of registration.
- Educational Background: A Level 5 qualification in chemical engineering, petroleum engineering, refinery technology, or related fields is recommended. Learners with Level 4 plus relevant industrial experience may also be considered.
- Professional Experience: 1–3 years of refinery or petroleum sector experience is an advantage but not mandatory.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent, or prior study/work in an English-speaking environment.
- Additional: Basic computer literacy and commitment to the three-year study plan.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within refinery and petroleum operations, including:
- Refinery Operator – Oversee day-to-day refinery processes and production efficiency.
- Process Engineer – Optimize refinery systems and troubleshoot operational issues.
- Quality Control Specialist – Ensure compliance with product standards and regulations.
- Production Supervisor – Lead teams and manage refinery production lines.
- Petroleum Analyst – Evaluate operational data and provide technical insights.
Advanced Career Roles
- Project Leader – Manage refinery projects and cross-functional teams.
- Technical Consultant – Advise on process optimisation, safety, and efficiency.
- Operations Manager – Supervise refinery units, ensuring productivity and compliance.
Professional Recognition and Growth
This diploma not only builds technical competence but also strengthens professional credibility. Learners gain opportunities to:
- Pursue industry certifications in process safety, energy management, and refinery operations.
- Join professional bodies in petroleum and chemical engineering.
- Build long-term career pathways in refinery management, consultancy, and global energy leadership.
