Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Studies: Officer of the Watch on Merchant Vessels of less than 500 gross tonnage (Near Coastal)

This qualification is aimed at those who have no prior experience of the maritime sector.

Its primary purpose is to confirm the learner's occupational competence as an officer of the watch on merchant vessels of less than 500 gross tonnage (near coastal). As a work-related, competence-based qualification it provides confirmation to employers and industry managers that the learner has the skills and knowledge needed to meet the nationally recognised standard to carry out the role.

Learners who achieve this qualification can use it to gain employment, to progress in the industry, or to work towards another qualification.

Objectives

The qualification is designed to meet the following objectives:

• preparing learners for employment
• preparing learners to progress to another qualification
• meeting relevant programmes of learning
• giving learners personal growth and engagement in learning
• supporting a role in the workplace
• confirming knowledge, understanding and skills

This qualification may be available through employers, training providers and colleges.

The Level 3 Diplomas are intended for people in the maritime sector and have been developed in conjunction with the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure they are 'fit for purpose'.

As this is a competence-based qualification, learners will be acquiring the knowledge and skills required through either on-the-job experience or in a learning environment. 

The Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Studies: Officer of the Watch on Merchant Vessels of less than 500 gross tonnage (Near Coastal) will develop knowledge and skills in areas such as:

• assisting with bridge watch-keeping duties
• steering and maintaining course
• mooring, anchoring and securing operations
• following safe and environmentally friendly working practices

It is particularly appropriate to able-seafarer and tug-rating jobs.

To achieve the whole qualification, learners must complete seven mandatory units from the qualification structure. (See Qualification content and delivery tools). There is also an opportunity for learners to take an additional optional unit, however, the credit from this does not count towards achievement of the qualification.

The Diploma in Maritime Studies: Officer of the Watch on Merchant vessels of less than 500 gross tonnage (Near Coastal) is suitable for a wide range of learners, aged 16 or over, including:

• school leavers
• learners progressing from basic maritime qualifications
• adults returning to education
• employed learners who wish to enhance their career prospects
• unemployed learners who wish to enhance their job prospects
• learners wishing to move from one sector of the maritime industry to another

Entry

As with all SQA qualifications, entry is at the discretion of the centre. Different combinations of relevant qualifications may be acceptable. Examples of formal entry qualifications include:

• the Level 2 Diploma in Maritime Studies: Able seafarer/Tug Rating, or
• a valid Navigation Watch Rating Certificate (STCW A-II/4) and a Certificate of Proficiency as an Able Seafarer/ Tug Rating (STCW A-II/5)

Apprenticeships

This qualification is a mandatory component in the Maritime Occupations Apprenticeship in England (as detailed in SASE).

Progression

This qualification can lead to progression within the maritime sector, particularly when it is taken as a component of an Apprenticeship in Maritime Occupations. Completion of this qualification can lead to career progression to Mate on board or Master of a vessel less than 500 gross tonnage (near costal), including tugs.

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