Officer of the Watch (HNC/SQA/Exam Route)

HNC NAUTICAL SCIENCE (LEADING TO OFFICER OF THE WATCH UNLIMITED) VIA BLENDED LEARNING

A blended learning programme, this course is a mixture of self-study and attendance at the Academy and is ideal for Deck Ratings who wish to gain further qualifications whilst working. Delegates can study and achieve an HNC and Officer of the Watch (Unlimited) without lengthy periods of study-leave from employment.

Entry Requirements:

A minimum of 36 months sea service in an acceptable deck capacity on ordinary trading vessels, and written testimonials to demonstrate that a minimum of 6 months have been spent on bridge duties in the last 12 months of sea service. To include the character, behaviour, conduct and ability of the delegate aboard ship. It is the responsibility of candidates to ensure that all entry requirements for the course and the issue of a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) by the MCA are met prior to attending the course.

Duration:

14-16 months self-study plus a minimum of 10 separate weeks at the Scottish Maritime Academy for face to face course delivery and supervised assessment.

Location:

Scottish Maritime Academy, Peterhead, Aberdeenshire

Cost:

Scottish Residents - £1656 + Exam Fee

International Residents - £4029 + Registration Fee

Course Structure

Celestial Navigation

Marine Meteorology

Bridge Watch-keeping

Navigational Mathematics and Science

Ship Construction

Chart Work and Tides

Ship Stability

Marine Cargo Ops

Emergency Response and Communications

Marine Law and Management and Nautical Science Graded Unit 1

Useful Information

Progression Opportunities:

Completion of this HNC allows candidates to prepare for SQ external examinations (Navigation, Stability and Operation)

Note: Successful completion of SQA external exams and other required short courses plus the MCA Oral Examination are required to gain Office of the Watch (Unlimited).

You may then progress towards the HND Nautical Science leading to the Chief Mate Certificate of Competency followed by the Full Master's Certification.