Diploma in Foreign-going Master or Chief (Level 7) also known as Chief Mate or Master

Other Engineering

The Diploma in Foreign-going Master or Chief (Level 7) prepares students to command ships as Chief Mate or Master, developing expertise in maritime operations, ship safety, navigation, legal compliance, and seafaring leadership.

NZ$9,085

inc GST

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This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 7 Certification (120 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

New Zealand Maritime School, Auckland

It will take a total of 1 year

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Command ships as Chief Mate or Master

Develop comprehensive command-level skills required to lead maritime operations on foreign-going vessels.

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Ensure vessel safety and integrity

Apply specialist knowledge for safeguarding life, property, and the marine environment.

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Manage crew, cargo, and records

Oversee responsibilities for crew, cargo, passengers, ship records, and administration.

What You're Signing Up For

This internationally recognised Level 7 diploma provides specialist knowledge in maritime operations for those seeking to become a Chief Mate or Master on foreign-going vessels. Students will learn to manage vessel safety and operations, ensure the integrity of crew, cargo, ship systems, and the marine environment, and develop key problem-solving and management skills at the command level. Completion enables graduates to apply for Maritime New Zealand certificates, leading to senior careers at sea and in maritime industry leadership roles ashore.

Course Content

  • Vessel technical operations
  • Risk analysis and human factors
  • Maritime commercial practice and ship master's business
  • Command meteorology
  • Manage maritime operations
  • Navigation control and emergency response
  • Manage safety and operations (Orals)
  • Adjust compasses
  • Naval architecture

What you need to know first

Hold a Watchkeeper Deck Certificate of Competency issued by Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) or an equivalent overseas qualification recognised by MNZ

OR have completed the academic components of the NZ2515 NZ Diploma in Nautical Science

OR hold a Marine Engineer Class 3 Certificate of Competency (MNZ or equivalent) plus recent passes (past 5 years) in Mathematics and Engineering Drawing for Class 3 CoC

OR have completed the academic components of the NZ2514 NZ Diploma in Marine Engineering

English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0, no band less than 5.5, or equivalent evidence per NZQA requirements)

Medical and eyesight/hearing fitness per Maritime New Zealand standards

Physically capable of completing the programme

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Maritime Transport

  • Shipping

  • Port Operations

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Chief Officer (Chief Mate) or Master (Captain) on foreign-going ships

  • Shore-based maritime leadership (pilot, port manager, harbour master, marine manager, cargo planner, accident investigator, maritime educator)