This qualification replaces the 0601 Process Plant Operation certificate. It is the new technical certificate for new and existing employees working across a wide range of process industries, such as chemical processing, metal production, petroleum operations and pharmaceutical operations.

The 0603 enables candidates to achieve recognition for their skills and competence, as well as progression from junior to senior positions. The 0603 award offers a number of different pathway routes which allow candidates to specialise in their chosen area of work. Candidates gain certification on their chosen pathway route through taking a combination of core units and pathway mandatory and optional units at Levels 2 and 3.

The majority of units are assessed via centre-set assignments, provided by centres.

Candidates also have the option of studying Open and Supplementary units should they decide to progress onto Foundation degree level.