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.

NZ$14,681

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 6 Certification (300 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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5
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10

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.

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Navigation and Watchkeeping

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

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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

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Maritime

  • Shipping

  • Transport

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Officer of the Watch (OOW) on merchant vessels

  • Maritime deck officer

  • Marine navigation positions

  • Progression towards senior maritime qualifications