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Course Overview

The main purpose of this qualification is to further your skills and knowledge in the Maritime Industry and prepare you for the next stage of training or working in Industry. You could move into an apprenticeship in either a Marine, Automotive, Aviation or Engineering Industry as the skill set gained is so comprehensive it leads to all of these different options. Alternatively, using the underpinning knowledge learnt could enable you to progress to an HNC/D in Nautical Studies, Marine Engineering, a degree-level apprenticeship or a Cadetship. This will be a part of your journey to qualifying as a junior officer (deck, engine or electrical) in the Merchant Navy. This qualification delivers the underpinning knowledge needed to meet the nationally recognised standard for the role of deck officer and so provides a sound basis for working in the industry.

Predominantly theoretical, you will study aspects of engineering principles, different types of shipping, components of a vessel as well as electrical elements to name but a few. You will develop a practical working knowledge of marine systems and equipment used on-board modern-day pleasure crafts and Heavy Industry vessels with higher-level aspects of practical skills developed.

Units studied

  • Maritime Industry
  • Marine Engineering Practice
  • Marine Mechanics
  • Mathematics for the Maritime Industry — Engineering Officer
  • Marine Electro-technology
  • Marine Thermodynamics
  • Naval Architecture
  • Transverse Stability of Ships
  • Shipboard Operations
  • Electrical Principles

 

Along with these units, you will have Personal Development classes weekly and you will be assisted in looking for a work experience placement.

 

This qualification will be of interest to learners who:

  • wish to pursue a career at sea
  • wish to work within the maritime industry
  • wish to enter the merchant navy
  • have already achieved a relevant Maritime Level 2 qualification and wish to progress on to the Level 3 Diploma
  • are already working within the shipping industry
  • wish to transfer from another career
  • are practically minded, enjoy learning in a structured and detailed manner using practical training — and enjoy the challenge that the maritime sector can offer

This is a full-time funded course for 16-18 year-olds

4x GCSE at grade 4 including a minimum grade 4 in English and grade 4 maths.

19+ an Advanced Learner Loan could be available for this course.

The qualification is assessed by completing a portfolio of evidence that details the work the learner has completed. This can be gathered through observation, professional discussion, witness testimony and exams on site. The lecturer will work alongside you to confirm that you have met the requirements of the qualification and that you are therefore competent in the task.

The course awards UCAS points on completion.

The college is a fantastic place to learn but nothing beats real-world experience.

That’s why you will source and complete a minimum of 30 hours of Work experience outside of your timetable hours and if possible up to 45 days’ work experience!

 

Upon successful completion of the Level 2 and Level 3 courses, you will have the skills required to move forward with confidence and start an apprenticeship in either a Marine, Automotive, Aviation or Engineering Industry as the skill set gained is so comprehensive it leads into all of these different options. Or using the underpinning knowledge learnt to enable you to progress to an HNC/D in Nautical Studies or Marine Engineering a degree-level apprenticeship or a Cadetship. This will be a part of your journey to qualifying as a junior officer (deck, engine or electrical) in the Merchant Navy.


This qualification delivers the underpinning knowledge needed to meet the nationally recognised standard for the role of deck officer and so provides a sound basis for working in the industry.

After successful completion of the Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas, your options are Apprenticeship in a Maritime role or working full-time in any of these industries (Automotive, Aviation or Engineering). 


After this, the world is your oyster at sea and on land. You can be an Electrician or Engineer living and working at sea or be shoreside repairing or making pleasure crafts or Heavy Industry vessels.
 

For those who are 19+ there is a course fee of £1938 or an Advanced Learner Loan could be available to you.

You will need to provide suitable overalls/uniform and safety boots which must always be worn at all times in the workshops, you will need to bring pens and an A4 notebook to keep a record of your learning.
Students will be expected to complete an additional four hours minimum of self-study each week.
 

You will need to provide suitable overalls/uniform and safety boots which must always be worn at all times in the workshops, you will need to bring pens and an A4 notebook to keep a record of your learning.

Students will be expected to complete an additional four hours minimum of self-study each week.

For more information, please contact our Marine Engineering Administrator on 01202 205754 

Awarding Body:
SQA (Scottish Qualifications Authority)

Course Options

Start Date

Wed 3rd September 2025

Attendance

Full-time

Duration

1 Years

Location

Poole Campus

*Advanced learner loan available