Program Overview

Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) MAR20321

Overview

The Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) MAR20321 is a nationally accredited qualification that provides students with the skills and knowledge required to operate a marine vessel up to 12 metres in length. This program is delivered over 12 months through a combination of online and in-person activity.

Program Details

• Duration: 12 months
• Delivery mode: Online learning + practical workshops
• Location: UQ St Lucia + Stradbroke Island

How You'll Learn

This program is delivered over 12 months (4 high school terms) through a combination of online and in-person activity. During school term, you'll attend training at UQ St Lucia for one day per week. A version of this program is available for students who have graduated high school.

Assessment

You will be assessed through a variety of methods, including written exams and reports, oral assessments, and practical demonstrations.

Start Date

This program begins in January each year.

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements for this qualification. However, as a safety consideration, it's recommended that all students be physically fit to carry out all the roles and responsibilities of a coxswain on a commercial vessel under 12m within 15nm of the coastline with a propulsion power of up to 500kW for inboard engines and unlimited for outboard engines as defined in Marine Order 505. Students should also be able to swim (any stroke) a minimum of 25 metres fully clothed.

Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) Testing

You’re required to complete a language, literacy, and numeracy test as part of the enrolment process. This helps identify and plan for any learning or support needs you may have before you start your training.

Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have recent work experience, you may be eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning.

Resources

The 2026 UQ Skills Student Handbook (PDF, 1.4 MB) includes student support and guidance on fees, withdrawal, and other policy information.

Fees

The full fee for this program is $4,150.

Units of Competency

To gain this qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete the following 13 units:

• Study period 1: Shipboard Safety Skill Set (MARSS00008) + First Aid
  • Apply basic survival skills in the event of vessel abandonment | MARF027
  • Follow procedures to minimise and fight fires on board a vessel | MARF028
  • Meet work health and safety requirements | MARF029
  • Survive at sea using survival craft | MARF030
  • Provide first aid | HLTAID011
• Study period 2: Coxswain Deck
  • Comply with regulations to ensure safe operation of a vessel up to 12 metres | MARI003
  • Follow environmental work practices | MARJ006
  • Handle a vessel up to 12 metres | MARK007
  • Apply seamanship skills aboard a vessel up to 12 metres | MARN008
  • Operate inboard and outboard motors | MARC037
• Study period 3: Coxswain Engineering
  • Perform basic servicing and maintenance of main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems | MARB027
  • Operate main propulsion unit and auxiliary systems | MARC038
• Study period 4: Coxswain Navigation
  • Plan and navigate a passage for a vessel up to 12 metres | MARH013

Careers

You may find employment in the following roles:

• Coxswain
• Deckhand
• Linesperson

Unlock Future Study Options

Completing a vocational qualification at school can open a lot of doors, whether you’re considering undertaking additional applied studies or heading to university. Often, a relevant Certificate II is the prerequisite for higher-level qualifications and may even count as credit. Similarly, a Certificate IV or higher may provide you with credit towards some university degrees in related fields.