Training Frameworks

The training frameworks provide a range of entry routes for those wishing to become professional seafarers. As well as achieving statutory Certificates of Competency for basic safety training, those on rating apprenticeships will gain their watch rating and able seafarer certification along with a Maritime Studies qualification. Those on officer education and training programmes will gain their Officer of the Watch (OOW), Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) or Electro-Technical certification along with a degree, HNC and/or HND. 

All programmes consist of alternating periods at college/university and sea.

Merchant Navy Education and Training Programmes

The diagram shows the entry requirements and qualifications leading to initial certification at officer of the watch level and junior officer status. It also illustrates academic progression opportunities, and includes the new Maritime Studies Qualifications (MSQs) which are currently available within rating and able seafarer training programmes.

Key features of officer education and training programmes have been defined to differentiate between the programmes. This should help shipping companies and sponsoring organisations identify the most appropriate programme to meet their needs and to enable them to best determine which programme is relevant for specific new entrants during their recruitment and selection processes.

Key features of Merchant Navy education and training programmes

Click here to view a large version of this table: (Key features of Merchant Navy education and training programmes)