Marine Technology – Navigation

Program Overview

---

Marine Technology – Navigation Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Co-op

Program Description

This program has been planned in co-operation with Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security (TCMSS) and Canada’s shipping companies. You acquire a complete education which will prepare you for the occupation of ship’s Navigation Officer. Skills include navigating merchant ships, assisting in cargo operations, and ensuring safety of life at sea and protection of the marine environment. The specialized competencies and work experience also provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary for employment in government and in other marine-related industries.

Intake Information

• Start date: Fall 2025
• Campus: Owen Sound

Tuition and Fees

• Visit our tuition and fees page for detailed information on the cost to attend Georgian.
• Review additional program-specific fees for this program.
• You can afford this! Explore OSAP as well as awards, scholarships and bursaries to help you pay your way to graduation.

Work-Integrated Learning

• This program includes a co-op work term component where you’ll gain experience in a workplace related to your field of study.
• Learn about types of work-integrated learning at Georgian.

Admission Requirements

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status
• Grade 12 English (C or U)
• Any* Grade 12 Mathematics (C, M, or U)

• A minimum grade of 70% in Grade 12 MAP4C, Foundations for College Mathematics, is required.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program may find rewarding careers as ship’s officers on board commercial vessels throughout Canada and the world. This three year co-operative cadet training program may lead to pathways for career advancement to senior ranks on board ship and to positions of leadership in the marine industry. Graduates are eligible to write examinations for the Transport Canada Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency and can gain employment in domestic and international shipping industries.

Accreditation

This program is accredited by Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada), formerly Canadian Association for Co-operative Education (CAFCE).

Why Study Marine Technology – Navigation at Georgian?

• Our grads get great jobs
• State-of-the-art facilities
• Industry support
• Hands-on experience

Course Overview

• 40 Program Courses
• 2 Communications Courses
• 3 Co-op Work Terms

Program-Specific Courses

• Semester 1 courses:
  • MARE 1054 – Practical Seamanship
  • MARE 1055 – Radar Navigation
  • MARE 1056 – Chartwork 1
  • MARE 1057 – Seamanship
  • MATH 1049 – Introduction to Marine Technology Navigation Mathematics
  • METE 1001 – Meteorology 1
  • PHYS 1009 – Physics

Course Delivery Method

• In person: This program is delivered fully in person and requires you to attend campus.

Related Programs

• Aviation Management
• Electrical Engineering Technology
• Marine Engineering Technology
• Mechanical Techniques – Marine Engine Mechanic

Program Outline

Marine Technology - Navigation Program Information at Georgian College

---

Degree Overview:

This program, co-created with Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security (TCMSS) and leading Canadian shipping companies, equips students with the required skills and knowledge to become ship's Navigation Officers. The comprehensive curriculum offers a thorough grounding in navigation principles, technology, and practical hands-on experience through sophisticated simulation equipment.

---

Program Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills essential for a successful career as a ship's Navigation Officer.
• Offer a complete understanding of navigation principles, techniques, and technologies.
• Provide practical shipboard experience through mandatory co-op work terms.
• Prepare students for the Transport Canada Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency exams.
• Foster leadership and professionalism amongst future leaders in the marine industry.

---

Outline:

---

Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Introduction to Marine Technology Navigation Mathematics
• Practical Seamanship
• Seamanship
• Coastal Navigation 1
• Radar Navigation
• Astronomy For Navigation
• Semester 2:
• Coastal Navigation 2
• Meteorology
• Marine Emergency Duties
• Ship Stability
• Ship Construction
• Cargo Handling
• International Maritime Law
• Marine Communications
• Computer Applications for Navigation

---

Year 2:

• Semester 3:
• Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS)
• Bridge Resource Management
• Collision Avoidance
• Shiphandling
• Shipboard Operations
• Advanced Seamanship
• GMDSS
• ARPA
• Radio Regulations
• Semester 4:
• Navigation Internship at Sea (6 months)

---

Year 3:

• Semester 5:
• Advanced Electronic Navigation Systems
• Ship Management
• Maritime Economics
• Marine Environmental Law
• Marine Insurance
• Port Operations
• Advanced Shiphandling
• Cargo Operations
• VTS Operations
• Passenger Ship Operations
• Semester 6:
• Navigation Internship at Sea (6 months)

---

Assessment:

Students' competency is evaluated through various methods, including:

• Examinations (written and practical)
• Assignments and projects
• Practical simulations
• Logbook maintenance
• Performance evaluations during on-board work terms

---

Teaching:

Experienced faculty with practical industry experience deliver the program, employing advanced simulation equipment and modern teaching tools. Small class sizes ensure individualized attention and a focus on practical application.

---

Careers:

Graduates can pursue diverse career paths as ship's officers with various employers, including:

• Canadian and international shipping companies
• Ferry and tugboat operators
• Government agencies
• Marine service providers
• Coast Guard

---

Other:

• Transport Canada Marine Medical certificate (fit for sea service) is required for program entry.
• Co-op work terms offer valuable industry experience and potential job opportunities.
• Graduates earn rewarding salaries, starting at $100,000.
• The Centre for Marine Training and Research, equipped with advanced simulation technology, provides a realistic learning environment.
• Program enjoys strong ties with Transport Canada and leading shipping companies.