Diploma in Nautical Science
Other Engineering
A course by
NMIT
A comprehensive diploma for mariners seeking technical qualifications to become an Officer of the Watch, focused on nautical navigation, vessel operations, and safety in accordance with Maritime NZ and international (IMO STCW II/1) standards.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Nelson, Nelson
It will take a total of 36 weeks


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Operate as Officer of the Watch
Graduates will be able to operate safely and effectively as a deck officer (OOW) on vessels, in compliance with STCW II/1 international standards.

Navigation and Watchkeeping
Students will demonstrate competence in navigation, passage planning, use of navigation aids, and accurate watchkeeping practices.

Emergency and Safety Management
Graduates will be trained in firefighting, survival at sea, marine emergency procedures, and management of distress and safety systems.
What You're Signing Up For
The Diploma in Nautical Science provides mariners with the training necessary to operate as a Watchkeeper Deck officer and to achieve a Certificate of Competency as Officer of the Watch (STCW II/1). Delivered at NMIT's International Maritime Institute of New Zealand in Nelson, the programme uses state-of-the-art bridge, engineering, and firefighting simulators to develop practical and technical skills. Topics include navigation, meteorology, safety and survival, fire prevention, maritime law, and vessel operation. Graduates may progress to higher maritime qualifications or careers as officers on merchant vessels.
Course Content
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- Navigational Mathematics
- Navigational Physics
- Introduction to Meteorology
- Navigation - Offshore
- Passage Planning
- STCW Medical First Aid
- STCW Advanced Firefighting
- STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats
- Cargo Handling and Stowage
- Compass Navigation
- Ship Construction
- Bridge Watchkeeping - Officer of the Watch (OOW)
- Vessel Operators - OOW
- Officer of the Watch Tasks
- Officer of the Watch Assignments
- Electronic Chart Display Information Systems (Generic)
- Electronic Navigation Aids
- STCW Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
- HELM (Human Element Leadership and Management)
- Maritime Legislation
- Ocean Meteorology
- Celestial Navigation
- Radar and ARPA Watchkeeping
- Ship Stability
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 OR NZQF Level 4 or above in a related discipline
Alternative entry via skills/experience assessed by Curriculum Manager
IELTS 6.0 Academic (no band lower than 5.5) or equivalent English proficiency (for non-English speakers)
Current medical examination certificate (GP or Seafarers Medical Certificate, not more than two years old) required for specific courses
MNZ sea time, medical, and eyesight requirements for Certificate of Competence, per Maritime NZ guidelines
Completion of approved Watchkeeper Deck Training Record Book (TAR book) prior to block course

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Maritime
Shipping
Transport

Future employment opportunities might be
Officer of the Watch (OOW) on merchant vessels
Maritime deck officer
Marine navigation positions
Progression towards senior maritime qualifications


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details