Deck Officers - Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Maritime Management

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Maritime Management program, offered by the Metropolitan College in partnership with Warsash Maritime Academy, equips students with the skills and knowledge for successful careers in the maritime industry. The program combines academic excellence with practical sea time, leading to a globally recognized bachelor's degree from Solent University (UK) and a Certificate of Competency from the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). Graduates enter the maritime industry as Third Officers (Deck) with strong career prospects both at sea and ashore.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc (Hons) Maritime Management program, offered by the Metropolitan College in collaboration with Warsash Maritime Academy, is a globally recognized bachelor's degree from Solent University (UK), earned while studying in Greece. The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful careers in the maritime industry, both at sea and ashore. It emphasizes a blend of academic excellence and practical experience, achieved through a combination of classroom learning, sea time, and specialized training at Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton. Graduates gain an internationally recognized bachelor's degree and a Certificate of Competency from the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). The program boasts a strong connection to the Greek maritime industry, providing paid shipboard training with leading companies. The program highlights the crucial role of shipping in international trade (90% of goods volume and 70% of value are transported by sea) and Greece's position as a leading ship-owning nation. The program prepares students for roles in deck operations, including navigation, ship management, cargo handling, and safety, ultimately leading to the rank of Third Officer (Deck).

Outline:

The program is structured into six phases, alternating between college-based study and sea time.

• Phase 1 (24 weeks): College-based training focusing on essential skills and academic foundations for MCA certification and safe sea operations.
Includes short safety and first aid courses mandated by the STCW convention.
• Phase 2 (26 weeks): Sea time, providing practical experience under the supervision of experienced officers, developing navigational and ship operational skills.
• Phases 3, 4, and 5 (102 weeks): A combination of college study, specialized short courses, and sea time for professional development.
Responsibilities increase progressively. Phase 5 includes final exams and assessments for MCA certification, with a significant portion (6-8 weeks) spent at Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton.
• Phase 6 (24 weeks): Designed for students already holding an MCA Certificate of Competency.
It provides knowledge and skills for diverse career opportunities at sea and ashore. This phase uses blended learning: 15 weeks of college-based study followed by 9 months of distance learning, supported by supervisors and faculty. The curriculum includes modules categorized by level:

Foundation Level:

Introduction to Navigation, Introduction to Marine Legislation, Mathematics for Nautical Science, Introduction to Ship & Port Operations, Introduction to Ship Construction & Stability, Nautical Science Terminology, Academic English & Study Skills.

Level 4:

Ship Stability & Construction, Ship Operations, Ocean Navigation, Maritime Trade & Transport, Coastal Navigation, Bridge Management.

Level 5:

Command Passage Planning, Advanced Ship Stability & Construction, Cargo & Port Operations, Law & Management for Mates & Masters, Bridge & Engineering Systems, Command Management for Masters & Mates.

Level 6 (optional):

Maritime Issues in the Contemporary World, Maritime & Commercial Law, Maritime Technology Management, Financial Management, Safety Management, Work-based Project.

Supplementary Courses:

Nautical Science Terminology, Navigational Aids, Equipment and Simulator Training (Operational level), Human Element Leadership and Management (Operational level), Efficient Deck Hand, Health & Safety On Board, Human Element & Communication On Board, Reflective Practice.

Assessment:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including exams, practical assessments during sea time, and potentially project work (as indicated by the Level 6 optional modules). The final assessments in Phase 5 are crucial for obtaining the Certificate of Competency from the MCA.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced instructors combining academic excellence and professional experience. The Metropolitan College has strong industry ties and relationships with Greek employers. The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining classroom instruction, online learning (in Phase 6), and extensive practical sea training. The program also includes a period of study at the renowned Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton.

Careers:

Graduates receive the rank of Third Officer (Deck) and have strong prospects for employment in the maritime industry. Career paths include progression through officer ranks at sea, with opportunities for shore-based roles in the international maritime sector for experienced officers.

Other:

The Metropolitan College is a Marine Member of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST). The program's duration is 4 or 5 years, taught and assessed in English. The program covers all aspects of nautical science, including navigation, ship handling, safe operation, and management.