CertHE Nautical Science - Level 4 at University of West London

Programme overview

The Certificate of Higher Education in Nautical Science (CertHE) at our Lowestoft campus is centred on professional competency development and is designed to provide you with the skills and academic knowledge necessary to understand the complex interactions between the marine environment, human factors, and technology. This development is facilitated by our staff's blend of academic and professional expertise, often gained from previous careers in ship command or as deck officers in the Merchant Navy.

Duration: 1 year full-time | Study mode: full-time | Intake: January 2027, May 2027, September 2027 | Location: London, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The CertHE Nautical Science course serves as a comprehensive introduction for cadets aspiring to embark on careers within the maritime industry. Taught by experienced instructors, the course content is underpinned by real-world expertise and practical insight, covering a range of modules from operational maritime law and project management to marine meteorology. This blend of learning ensures that you are not only well-versed in the technical aspects of nautical science but also adept at tackling challenges unique to the marine sector. Modules include: What our students say; 2nd London university for student satisfaction - National Student Survey 26*; Lauren Carberry.

Career pathways

By imparting a robust combination of academic knowledge and practical expertise, the CertHE Nautical Science course significantly enhances your employability and career prospects. Whether aiming for a future as a deck officer or seeking advancement in shore-based maritime roles, you will benefit from an education that is recognised for its relevance, rigour, and alignment with industry standards.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum age. Applicants must be 18+ in accordance with MSN 1856 (M+F) as amended: Officer of the Watch (Deck) – Unlimited and associated guidance. Medical fitness. Applicants must hold a valid medical fitness certificate meeting the standards, including eyesight requirements, prescribed under the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (Medical Certification) Regulations 2010 (S.I.2010/737), as referenced in MSN 1856 (M+F) as amended: Medical Certification Guidance. Seagoing service – bridge watchkeeping. Applicants must have completed the minimum qualifying period of seagoing service as required under MSN 1856 (M+F) as amended. This must include at least six months within the final year performing bridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of a certificated officer. Seagoing service – duration. Applicants must have completed one of the following, as defined in MSN 1856 (M+F) as amended: A minimum of 36 months’ seagoing service in an acceptable deck capacity; or. A minimum of 48 months’ seagoing service where such service has been undertaken as a General Purpose (GP) rating. Please note: It is your responsibility to ensure that all entry requirements for the course and the issue of a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) by the MCA are met prior to attending the course. For sea time assessment you may log on to the MCA’s website . The University will check these criteria for admission purposes only. It is the student’s sole responsibility to compile and submit all required documentary evidence directly to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). The MCA must formally accept this evidence before granting accreditation.

Domestic applicants: GBP 8,500 a year (2027/28). Tuition for: Full-time (1 year, January 2027); Full-time (1 year, May 2027). Source

International applicants: GBP 8,500 a year (2027/28). Tuition for: Full-time (1 year, January 2027); Full-time (1 year, May 2027). Source

Intake: January 2027, May 2027, September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.uwl.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/how-apply-undergraduates

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