The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations whose primary purpose is to develop and maintain a comprehensive regulatory framework for shipping, which includes safety, environmental concerns, legal matters, maritime security, technical cooperation and shipping efficiency. As part of their mandate IMO developed model training courses to push implementation of STCW the latest amendment of which was in the International Conference held in Manila on June 2010. These Amendments update the standard of competence required particularly in the light of new technologies, and introduces new, revised and refresher training course and certification requirements.

Among the new courses is a revised Management Level Course for Deck and Engineer Officers. As required by the STCW Convention junior level officers (3rd and 2nd Mates, 4th and 3rd Engineer Officers) are to undergo a management level program to be eligible for certification as management level officers (Masters, Chief Mates, Chief Engineers and 2nd Engineers). MLC is also a requirement for the renewal of the Certificate of Competence (COC) and Certificate of Endorsement (COE) for all management level officers.