This programme is ideal for students who wish to become qualified maritime officers in the commercial shipping or fishing industries.

Key reasons to study include:

• Prepare for Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) Certificates of Competency.
• Choose between the Fishing or Watchkeeping strand, or complete both.
• Learn safe vessel operations, navigation and maritime legislation.
• Gain practical training using modern maritime simulators.
• Develop skills in navigation, meteorology, emergency response and vessel operations.
• Learn from experienced maritime professionals.
• Build a pathway to employment on commercial and fishing vessels operating in New Zealand and international waters.
• Modular intakes provide flexibility to begin scheduled courses throughout the year.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.

Programme Structure

Students complete 12 compulsory courses together with the courses from their chosen strand to achieve 120 credits.

Core Compulsory Courses

Topics include:

• STCW Basic First Aid
• Security Awareness
• Basic Sea Survival
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)
• Meteorology
• Watchkeeping (Orals)
• Navigation at the Operational Level
• Passage Planning

Fishing Strand

Students study:

• Fishing Seamanship

Watchkeeping Strand

Students study:

• Proficiency in Survival Craft (PISC)
• Medical First Aid
• Advanced Fire Fighting

Subjects / Topics Offered

Students study:

• Maritime Navigation
• Passage Planning
• Meteorology
• Watchkeeping
• Fishing Seamanship
• Ship Handling
• Emergency Response
• Sea Survival
• Fire Fighting
• Maritime Security
• First Aid
• Maritime Legislation
• Safety Management
• Professional Maritime Communication

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Students may choose one or both of the following strands:

• Fishing
• Watchkeeping

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 4 nationally recognised qualification.
• Delivered by the New Zealand Maritime School.
• Modern bridge simulators and practical maritime training.
• Choice of Fishing or Watchkeeping strand.
• Modular entry options throughout the year.
• Practical, industry-focused curriculum.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Qualification leads towards Maritime New Zealand Certificates of Competency.
• Strong employment opportunities in New Zealand and international maritime industries.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in roles such as:

• Watchkeeper Deck (<500 GT Near Coastal)
• Officer of the Watch
• Mate Fishing Vessel – Limited
• Commercial Vessel Officer
• Fishing Vessel Mate
• Coastal Vessel Officer
• Navigation Officer (with further experience and licensing)

Graduates can pursue careers on:

• Commercial vessels
• Coastal cargo vessels
• Fishing vessels
• Offshore support vessels
• International commercial shipping operations

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Students may begin through modular intakes during the year.
• A small component of the programme is delivered by a subcontracted training provider.
• Completion of this qualification is only one requirement for obtaining an MNZ Certificate of Competency.
• Graduates must also complete:
  • Required sea service
  • Maritime New Zealand medical examination
  • Eyesight and colour vision testing
  • Fit and Proper Person assessment
• International students must attend the required on-campus practical components.

Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before commencing their studies.

Applicants generally require:

• Offer of Place from MIT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees.
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
• Medical and travel insurance.
• Evidence of English language proficiency.
• Student visa approval from Immigration New Zealand.