Nautical Sciences

Diploma Full-time School of Transportation

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Overview

The Nautical Sciences Diploma program is an accredited three-year cadet co-operative education program for students interested in careers in the commercial marine industry. Students are trained to use technological and navigational equipment on a wide range of ships and are equipped to enter the industry as Deck Officers.

Note: The February 2025 intake is now closed for new applications. Applications for re-admission and direct entry may still be submitted. Applications for the September 2025 intake are currently being accepted.

About the program

The Nautical Sciences program is a three-year full-time co-operative program accredited by Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security (TCMSS). Students gain a thorough background in the principles and operation of modern vessels like supertankers, bulk carriers, cruise ships, tugboats, and offshore supply vessels. Students (cadets) receive instruction and training based on seamanship and traditional maritime skills in areas such as:

Operating navigational equipment
Safe carriage of goods
Watchkeeping
Marine communications
Marine safety, security, and rescue
Environmental response
Ship stability
Chartwork

Who it’s for

Do you see yourself as Captain of a cruise ship, supertanker, or tugboat? This program is your first step towards a career as an international Master Mariner in the commercial marine industry.

BCIT Nautical Sciences Program – BC Ferries Graduate Experience

Navigational (Deck) Officers are trained seafarers capable of using technological and navigational equipment on a wide range of ships, from large passenger cruise ships to cargo vessels worldwide. Deck Officers are responsible for the safety of the crew and cargo aboard a ship. The main responsibilities of a Deck Officer include:

Marine navigation and communications
Conducting daily watchkeeping duties
Rescue, safety, and environmental response.

What grads can do

The Canadian marine industry is experiencing a shortage of qualified Deck Officers. With over 90% of BCIT Nautical Sciences graduates employed in the industry, there are plenty of employment opportunities available.

Upon successful completion of the program and obtaining at least 12 months of Transport Canada approved sea time, you will be eligible to challenge the Transport Canada Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency.

Learn more about Transport Canada exemptions in the Nautical Sciences program.

For more information

Discover the answers to your burning questions by watching the video below, where a recent information session has been recorded:

Marine Programs Info Session October 2024

Entrance Requirements

Application processing

Applications are accepted from:

October 1st* to March 31st* for September intakes
February 1st* to September 30th* for February intakes

Applications are considered for a specific intake. This program does not carry a waitlist from year to year.

Don’t wait for the deadline and apply early. This will allow you time to upgrade if needed.

Entrance requirements

Competitive Entry: Two-step process

Preference will be given to applicants with:

Academic grades above the minimum
Related or transferable experience
Teamwork and leadership
Knowledge of the marine industry
Communication skills

Step 1: Meet the following entrance requirements

English language proficiency: one of the following:
- Category 3 – English Studies 12 (50%) or equivalent or
- BCIT English Trades Entry Assessment
Physics: Physics 11 (60%)
Math: one of the following:
- Pre-Calculus 11 (60%) or
- Foundations of Math 11 (60%) or
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses or
- BCIT Math Trades Entry Assessment
Medical certificate from a Transport Canada-approved physician indicating you are fit for deck service

Complete the following forms for submission with your online application:
- Cadet Programs Terms and Conditions [PDF]*
- Mandatory Applicant Questionnaire [PDF]: This form will be used with other entrance requirements in the competitive selection for the program.

*This program has a mandatory uniform policy in which Cadets and Officers are required to wear a uniform while in class and at external industry functions.

Step 2: Requirements for selected applicants:

All applications will be reviewed by the program area at the application deadline. All applicants will be contacted for the following:

Interviews will be conducted in the months of September and October for the January intake, and April and May for the September intake if required, and selections will be made thereafter.

Admission is competitive and will be offered to the most qualified applicants.

Note: Acceptance into the program does not constitute a guarantee by BCIT that a shipping company will provide a berth for the Co-op terms. BCIT will assist Cadets with the coordination of Co-op terms.

International applicants

This program is not available to international students. View available programs.

Transfer credit

Individuals who have completed a Bridge Watchman program may be eligible for credit towards a portion of the first year of the Nautical Sciences Cadet program. Please contact the Associate Dean or Department Head for more information.

Apply to program

To submit your application:

Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.

Apply Now

Learn more about how to apply

Scheduled Intakes

January and September each year.

myCommunication

Within two business days of submitting your completed application, BCIT will send a message to your personal and myBCIT email addresses. All correspondence regarding your application will be posted to your online myCommunication account at my.bcit.ca. We will send you an email when a new message is posted. It is important to watch for these emails or regularly check your account online.

You can expect to receive communication concerning the status of your application within four weeks.

Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.

Advanced Placement

Conditions

You may be eligible to apply to an advanced level of the program through either re-admission or direct entry. Please note that applications are considered based on:

Competitive entry: if the number of applicants exceeds available seats, BCIT will accept those deemed to have the best opportunity for success.
Seat availability: confirmation may not be available until approximately one week before the term begins.

Re-admission

You can apply for re-admission if you:

were previously admitted to this program and completed part of it at BCIT and
want to re-enter the program at an advanced level.

Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Ready to submit your application? Apply now.

Direct entry

You can apply for direct entry if you:

are a new applicant to this program but already completed an equivalent part of it at BCIT or elsewhere and
want to apply to an advanced level.

Contact BCIT Marine Campus Admissions at 604-453-4100 for more information.

Costs & Supplies

Check out the required and optional textbooks for each year of the program.

Books can be purchased through the BCIT Bookstore or by calling 604-432-8379 or 877-333-8379 (toll-free within Canada).

Tuition fees

Use our tuition estimator to find tuition and fees for this program.

For more information on full-time tuition fees, visit Full-Time Studies Tuition & Fees.

Books & supplies

	Required Book Estimates:	Optional Book Estimates:
First Year:	$200-$300	$800-$900
Second Year:	$350-$450	$0-$100
Third Year:	$450-$550	$0-$100

(general estimated cost, subject to change)

For more information on textbooks, please contact the BCIT Bookstore at 604-432-8379 or 877-333-8379 (toll-free within Canada).

Supplies: Cadets must acquire drawing instruments, a scientific calculator, and stationary supplies as required. Coveralls, sight and hearing protection, and safety boots worn during the training exercises are the responsibility of the Cadets.

Uniforms: Cadets are required to purchase uniforms from an approved supplier to be worn while in class. Depending on quantity and size, the total cost for uniforms during the first year is between $250 and $350.

Documentation: Throughout the duration of the program, students are required to maintain official documentation such as Transport Canada Medicals, passports, and other company specific requests for the Co-operative sea phase terms that are subject to additional fees.

Financial assistance

Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.

Courses

Class hours

0830 – 1600, Monday through Friday.

Due to size limitations in some courses, students may be required to take some afternoon classes.

Program matrix

First Year, Term 1 (28 weeks):			Credits
	GMDS 1800	GMDSS - General Operator's Certificate (GOC) This course covers maritime mobile and satellite services. Students will learn the operation and regulatory requirements of the basic equipment in a ship station and will apply their knowledge to the Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS). This includes making distress, urgency, and safety calls following safety communications procedures. In addition, students will learn the procedures for general communications and how to use the Fleet Broadband and Iridium A3 satellite communications equipment in simulated real-world scenarios. Prerequisite(s): Students must be 18 years of age or older. Familiarity with basic computer keyboarding skills. course outline	4.5
	MEDI 1510	STCW Basic Safety The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers provides standards regarding emergency, occupational safety, and survival. The course provides these standards to meet minimum requirements for familiarization, basic safety, fire fighting, and survival in emergency situations, and the syllabus is in compliance with TP 4957, December 2016. Prerequisite(s): A valid Seafarers Medical or completed Medical Clearance form. JIBC medicals are valid for a maximum of 6 months after date of exam. TC medicals are valid for a maximum of 2 years after the date of exam. https://www.bcit.ca/files/transportation/pdf/marine/form_medical_clearance.pdf course outline	3.0
	MEDI 1810	STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft Students will learn about orderly abandonment of a vessel in an emergency situation. They will learn the procedures to clear the vessel; proper and effective use of equipment; and how to coordinate survival activities during rescue operations. This course meets the requirements of Table A-VI/2-1 of the STCW Convention Specification, which specifies the minimum standard of competence in survival craft and rescue boats other than fast rescue boats. Prerequisite(s): Minimum of 16 years of age and must hold a valid MED A1, MED A2, or STCW Basic Safety training certificate. course outline	2.0
	MSEC 1010	Ship Security Officer Students will learn the techniques and skills required to address the qualifications and duties of a ship (vessel) security officer, which include: (a) the security of a ship, (b) implementing and maintaining a ship security plan, and (c) liaising with a company security officer (CSO) and a port (marine) facility officer (PFSO/MFSO). Students will learn about terrorist threats and methods of operation, how to obtain current intelligence and assess threats, and the importance of training and vigilance. The course references the pertinent acts, regulations, codes, international resolutions, administrative guides, and industry standards to be in compliance with the ISPS Code and Transport Canada Marine Security's requirements. The course content is based upon the IMO Model Course, ISPS Code, the Marine Transportation Security Regulations, Transport Canada's Marine Security requirements, and guidelines for a ship security officer. Prerequisite(s): Students must be 18 years of age or older and be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Must provide at least one piece of ID as per Transport Canada's requirements. course outline	1.5
	MSSM 1025	Marine Basic First Aid Students will learn the basics of first aid, rescue equipment, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) within the context of marine environments. Topics include responding to emergencies; dealing with shock, unconsciousness, and choking; treating wounds and fractures; performing artificial respiration; and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) to respond to sudden cardiac arrest. Prerequisite(s): 16 years of age course outline	1.0
	MSSM 1200	Marine Advanced First Aid Revised This certification course has been developed to meet Transport Canada requirements for Marine Advanced First Aid. Every seafarer who is designated to apply immediate advanced first aid in the event of an accident or illness on board must demonstrate competence to undertake the tasks, duties, and responsibilities as described: immediate action; first aid kits; body structure and function; toxicological hazards aboard ship; examination of the patient; spinal injuries; burns, scalds, and effects of heat and cold; fractures, dislocations, and muscular injuries; medical care of rescued persons, including distress, hypothermia, and cold exposure; radio medical advice; pharmacology; sterilization; cardiac arrest, drowning, and asphyxia; psychological and psychiatric problems; and patient assessment. Prerequisite(s): MSSM 1025 Marine Basic First Aid. Students must be 16 years of age and older. Pre-reading and picture ID required. course outline	2.0
	MSSM 1205	Seamanship The course focuses on the basic practical skills and knowledge required by a seafarer prior to going to sea. Practical skills will require knowledge of ropes, wires, cables; the skills to tie knots, splice rope and wire; knowledge on the breaking strength of various ropes and wires. Students will study mooring methods and the general layouts and operational functions of merchant vessels. Studies will include the understanding of onboard routines and duties to perform, including watchkeeping and maintenance. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the program. course outline	9.0
	NAUT 0001	Orientation to Nautical Sciences Students are to become familiar with BMC policy, procedures, and the roles of key figures. They will be able to effectively understand Co-op employment procedures, and be prepared to apply for a Co-op job by having the ability to write cover letters and a resume. Students will also be given the skills to conduct an effective job interview. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the program. course outline
	NAUT 1225	Ship Navigation Safety 1 Teaches interpreting and applying the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea with their Canadian Modifications 1983; and the recommended Code of Navigation Practices and Procedures; basic knowledge required to assist in a navigational watch. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the program. course outline	2.0
	NAUT 1241	Mathematics This course introduces students to the principles and structure of specific mathematical concepts as outlined in the STCW Code for Watchkeeping Officers. The course builds on mathematical fundamentals and principles to support nautical technical subjects such as astro navigation, stability, and cargo work. Prerequisite(s): Admission into the program course outline	4.0
	NAUT 1248	Physical Science This course covers the principles of physical science and problem-solving as they apply to navigation. The course consists of two major parts: (1) waves, sound, and light and (2) magnetism and electricity. Topics include vectors and forces; motion in a straight line; Newton’s laws of motion; rotational motion; work, energy, and power; friction; simple machines; fluids at rest and in motion; Archimedes’ principle and flotation; solids, liquids, and gases and changes of state; heat and transmission of heat; and refrigeration. Prerequisite(s): Admission to the program course outline	9.0
	NAUT 1252	Technical Writing The course provides the students with a comprehensive view and basic understanding of the wide range of types and means of communications existing in the maritime world. Emphasis is placed on developing and improving the student’s abilities to produce written work that is accurate, brief, and clear. They will learn the critical role that effective and efficient communications, whether written, spoken, or visual, play in safe operations of marine assets. Barriers to proper communications will be identified. Case histories where communication breakdowns played a pivotal role in serious casualties will be reviewed. The course will include the types of communication systems and protocols used within the vessel and from ship-to-shore agencies. Students will do progressive in-class writing and homework assignments designed to improve their written documents. They will also prepare and give an oral presentation to the class and set an agenda and participate in a business meeting. Communications covered by regulatory and legal authorities, the structure of CSA–2001, TC Publications, basic ISM programs, and required shipboard certificates will be discussed. Prerequisite(s): Admission into the program. course outline	4.0
	NAUT 1805	Communications 1 This course guides participants on the use of International Code of Signals for coding and decoding messages and procedures to be applied for communication by visual signaling; on the use of Radio Aids to Marine Navigation for ascertaining facilities and services; and on extracting necessary information from the Annual Notices to Mariners. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	2.0
	NAUT 1809	Communications 2 This course covers communication by Morse code using flashing light or sound signals. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	1.0
	NAUT 1874	GSK 3 - General Ship Knowledge 3 This course includes the study of International and Canadian regulations for the prevention of pollution and protection of the marine environment by oil and other hazardous materials. Students will demonstrate their ability to use Canada’s Shipping Act and relevant regulations for safety of life and pollution prevention. Students will also acquire basic working knowledge of the Canadian Labour Code and Occupational Health and Safety Legislation. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	8.0

First Year, Term 2 Co-op (31 weeks):			Credits
	NAUT 1990	Co-operative Training 1 Cooperative Education (Co-op) integrates relevant work experience (Sea Phases) within the academic program of the Nautical Sciences Diploma program. Cadets alternate between periods of academic study and Sea Phases to enhance the educational experience, all the while meeting the requirements of Transport Canada. Sea Phases are conducted with reputable companies. The Co-op Coordinator considers tonnage and voyage type. Cadets will have attended an orientation to the program and a briefing just prior to commencing the sea phase. During the sea phase, Cadets are monitored by the Cadet office. Prerequisite(s): STCW Basic Safety, STCW Survival Craft, and Marine Advanced First Aid course outline	41.5

Second Year, Term 3 (23 weeks):			Credits
	ENAV 1030	Electronic Positioning Systems This course provides students with the basic knowledge of the principles, application and limitations of modern electronic navigational aids. Prerequisite(s): Navigation Safety 1 (NS 1) and Chartwork and Pilotage 2 (C&P 2) course outline	6.0
	NAUT 1203	Terrestrial Navigation Students will learn methods of navigation by terrestrial means. They will calculate courses and distances between various points using different methods of sailing calculations, such as parallel, plane, Mercator, and great circle. They will also learn about the graticule system of the earth. Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Term 1 course outline	5.0
	NAUT 1820	C&P 2 - Chartwork and Pilotage 2 This course provides students with the necessary skills and techniques to navigate in confined and open waters. A detailed knowledge and application of nautical publications required for coastal navigation and passage planning is included in this course. An emphasis on the importance of updating charts and nautical publications is also provided. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	12.0
	NAUT 1850	MET 1 - Meteorology 1 This course covers details on the development of maritime weather patterns and systems. The contents include atmosphere, atmospheric pressure, wind, cloud, precipitation, visibility, frontal systems, ocean currents, depressions and storms. Students will make weather observations from instruments, record and report on weather conditions. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	6.0
	NAUT 2204	Celestial Navigation This course provides students with the means to navigate a vessel by position-fixing using celestial bodies. The topics include the celestial sphere and bodies, determining a vessel's position using celestial bodies, determining compass and gyro errors, calculating sun/moon rise, sun/moon set, and twilight timings. Students will learn how to calculate a ship's position using the chronometer method, the Marc St. Hilaire method, and use of celestial bodies such as Polaris. This course also covers the challenges experienced when navigating in high-latitude areas. Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Term 1 course outline	13.0
	NAUT 3010	Navigation Project Students will work in teams to create a voyage based on a given real-world scenario, applying all the theoretical concepts learned in Terrestrial Navigation and Celestial Navigation. At the end of the course, students will practice their presentation and communication skills by presenting their resulting work to their peers. Prerequisite(s): 70% in NAUT 1201 and 70% in NAUT 2203 course outline	2.0

Second Year, Term 4 Co-op (39 weeks):			Credits
	NAUT 2990	Co-operative Training 2 Cooperative Education (co-op) integrates relevant work experience (also called sea phases) within the Nautical Sciences Diploma program. Students will enhance their educational experience during the sea phases by applying the knowledge gained throughout the previous term, while meeting the requirements of Transport Canada for the number of hours at sea. Sea phases are conducted with reputable marine companies. Prerequisite(s): MEDI 1510 and MEDI 1810 and MSSM 1200 course outline	52.0

Third Year, Term 5 (25 weeks):			Credits
	ENAV 1070	Simulated Electronic Navigation - Operational (SEN O) This Simulated Electronic Navigation – Operational course complies with the requirements of the “Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention.” The training will bridge the gap between theory and practice by providing the student with the required skill set to apply the Collision Regulations, and the principles to be observed in keeping a safe navigational watch. The students will be taught position fixing and monitoring techniques in coastal passages. Basic principles of bridge resource management, leadership, and teamwork skills will be incorporated in the course to promote safety of life at sea, and protection of the marine environment. Prerequisite(s): Students must have successfully completed the following training courses and examinations prior to registering for the SEN-O training course: Electronic Positioning Systems (EPS) or Simulated Electronic Navigation 1A, Radio Operator’s Certificate (ROC-MC), Chartwork and Pilotage 2 (C&P2), Navigation Safety 1 (NS1). course outline	8.0
	ENAV 2450	Leadership and Teamwork This course is intended to provide the student with the knowledge, skill and understanding of leadership and teamwork at the operational level on board a ship. The course is designed to meet STCW requirements for the application of leadership and team working skills, in accordance with the 2010 Manila Amendments of STCW, specifically as stated in tables A-II/1, A-III/1, and A-III/6 (operational level) of Annex A of the STCW Code. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	2.0
	ENAV 3105	Electronic Chart Display and Information System The purpose of this course is to provide students with knowledge, skills, and a thorough understanding of the ECDIS, in order to safely navigate vessels whose primary means of navigation is the ECDIS. This course covers the requirements of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention (STCW1978), as amended by the 2010 Manila Amendments (STCW2010). The course content is as per Transport Canada’s TP 4958E and IMO model course 1.27. Students will be trained and assessed using ECDIS and other associated navigational equipment in a simulated environment. Students will perform exercises in setting-up the ECDIS display best-suited for the area of navigation, perform basic navigation functions in accordance with the Collision Regulations, create, check, and monitor routes, and take proper and effective action when dealing with equipment failures and malfunctions. Those planning to enter the course should be proficient in nautical chartwork, and be familiar with visual navigation and bridge watchkeeping duties, including the operation of the Radar and ARPA. Students should also be familiar with Windows-based personal computing operating systems, using keyboards, mice, and trackballs. Prerequisite(s): Chartwork and Pilotage, Level 1 (C&P1) course outline	3.0
	MEDI 2510	Advanced Fire Fighting Through classroom-based presentation and practical skills training, participants will gain valuable knowledge and skills in regards to fire safety, as well as how to manage and control fire situations aboard ships. This Marine Emergency Duties, Advanced Fire Fighting course is based on the requirements of Transport Canada TP 4957, Chapter 16, and is in direct compliance with STCW 95 Convention, Regulation A-VI/3. Prerequisite(s): Minimum 16 years of age, MED - Basic Safety Training and a valid seafarer’s medical. course outline	2.0
	NAUT 1204	Cargo and Stability Software This course involves planning stowage for marine bulk containers and liquid bulk cargoes on board vessels using a software application. The stowage planning incorporates criteria for stability conditions to the requirements of IMO standards. This course also explains calculation method of longitudinal stresses on ships. Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Term 3 and Ship Stability 3 course outline	1.0
	NAUT 1877	CG2 - Cargo 2 This course covers Canadian and International regulations pertaining to the safe carriage of cargoes as transportation on vessels. The basic knowledge on the safe handling, stowage, and securing of cargoes, along with the associated equipments are also covered in this course. The types of cargoes covered are: Deck, Container, Bulk, Dangerous, Hazardous, and Harmful cargoes. Prerequisite(s): No prerequisites are required for this course. course outline	8.0
	NAUT 2226	Ship Navigation Safety 2 Students will learn the fundamentals of keeping a safe navigational watch, following the International and Canadian Collision Regulations. The course also prepares students for an oral examination with a Transport Canada Examiner. The main content includes the following: maintaining a safe navigational watch; lifesaving and distress signals; weather routing; ship-handling under various weather conditions; maneuvering characteristics; anchoring and mooring; IMO and IAMSAR; response to emergencies; search and rescue; seaworthiness; rigging; and other seamanship-related topics required for a Watchkeeping Mate Officer Certification. Prerequisite(s): 70% in NAUT 1225 course outline	6.0
	NAUT 3206	Ship Construction This course introduces students to the different types of merchant vessels and the reason for their special construction, general knowledge of the principal structural members of a vessel, and the identity for the various structural parts, with emphasis placed on longitudinal, transverse, and combined framing systems, bow and stern frame arrangements, mooring arrangements, hatchways and coamings, shell plating, and superstructures. Special emphasis is placed on torsional stresses, stresses exerted by water pressure, stresses determining software, drainage piping arrangements, propulsion and steering gear fittings, and freeboard and Load Line Regulations. Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Term 4 course outline	6.0
	NAUT 3212	Ship Stability This course combines knowledge of a ship's stability requirements and the use of the ship’s stability information booklet to calculate a vessel’s stability condition in order to maintain seaworthiness. It introduces students to ship stability with emphasis on the knowledge of basic algebra, geometry, and trigonometry in solving complex ship stability problems. Students will learn the principle of flotation, buoyancy, and reserve buoyancy; and will apply knowledge of International and Canadian load lines while making calculations to find the height of the ship’s centre of gravity above the keel. Emphasis is placed on the use of Simpson’s Rules to calculate areas and volumes of irregular shapes; transverse statical stability; IMO’s intact stability criteria for merchant ships; and the construction and interpretation of hydrostatic curves. In addition, the course will cover the requirements for knowledge, understanding, and proficiency of the STCW 95Code for the function of a Watchkeeping Officer. Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Term 4 course outline	11.0

Total Credits:			237.5

Transfer credit

Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.

Program Details

Program length

Three years, full-time.

Program delivery

In person: This program is delivered on campus.

Program location

Marine Campus
265 West Esplanade
North Vancouver, BC

The majority of classes take place at the BCIT Marine Campus. However, some courses may be taken offsite at locations such as the Justice Institute Fire and Safety Training Centre in Maple Ridge, BC and Primary Response in North Vancouver, BC.

Program structure

This three-year diploma program consists of three terms of classroom instruction interspersed with two Co-op terms:

	School	Co-op Terms	School	Co-op Terms
First Year	Term 1 (Jan-Jul)	Term 2 (Jul-Feb)	Term 1 (Sep-Mar)	Term 2 (Mar-Oct)
Second Year	Term 3 (Feb-Aug)	Term 4 (Aug-May)	Term 3 (Oct-May)	Term 4 (May-Jan)
Third Year	Term 5 (May-Nov)		Term 5 (Feb-Aug)

A Transport Canada Training Certificate will be issued to students who successfully complete the program, subject to 12 months of TCMSS approved sea time being completed. This certificate is required to book for an oral examination on General Seamanship at Transport Canada. If successful in passing this examination, the student will obtain a Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency from TCMSS.
A BCIT Diploma, upon application, will be issued to students successfully completing the program. A diploma may provide credits towards a bachelor's degree.

Learn more about Transport Canada exemptions in the Nautical Sciences Program.

Additional program requirements

Students must successfully complete all courses in the program within 7 years from the start of the program.
PER TP section 1.27 (1)(g), students must have sea service completed onboard one or more vessels of at least 150 gross tonnage while the vessels are engaged on voyages beyond sheltered waters.
TCMSS examination fees, where applicable, are not part of the program course fees. They are payable to TCMSS directly and are due two weeks in advance of the examination.
Standard BCIT policies concerning examination re-writes apply to this program.

Graduating & Jobs

Continue your education

Graduates of this program may continue their studies to complete the BCIT Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Technology Management. The BTech program provides you with the flexibility to start your new career and complete your degree part-time within 3 to 5 years.

Career overview

Cadets receive a thorough background in the principles and operation of modern vessels like supertankers, bulk carriers, cruise ships, and offshore supply vessels.

Upon successful completion of the third year of the program and obtaining at least 12 months of Transport Canada approved sea time, you will be eligible to challenge the Transport Canada Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency. This initial licence allows a cadet to officially become a ship’s Officer. They will then become an important part of the ship’s management team to ensure the safe navigation of the ship and the safety of its cargo. They are also responsible for seamanship, cargoes and stowage, safety, and communications. In port, they manage the loading and off-loading of cargoes. After graduation from the diploma program, and with more sea time aboard ships, Officers may continue to upgrade their skills with the ultimate goal of becoming a Master Mariner.

Lifestyle & nature of work

Whether being a member of the bridge team working with the Captain and other crew members to handle the ship or being in charge of a group of skilled seafarers to operate the ship’s equipment, the challenges are great and the rewards are many. The marine industry requires its Cadets and Officers to be at sea operating in nearly every ocean, aboard a variety of vessels. Depending on the schedule of the shipping company, Deck Officers or Cadets could be away from home for months at a time. The work conditions can be demanding, however, there may be exciting opportunities to meet multinational crew members and travel around the world.

Job opportunities

Graduates are able to work internationally as the program is recognized by the International Maritime Organization through Transport Canada. Co-op placements in the Nautical Sciences program typically end up becoming permanent positions as many of the Co-op employers seek lifetime employees. We work with employers such as Algoma Central Corporation, BC Ferries, Canada Steamship Lines, Canship Ugland, McKeil Marine, Rigel Shipping, Royal Caribbean, Seaspan, Teekay Shipping, Transport Desgagnes, and more.

Upon successful completion of the program and obtaining your Transport Canada Watchkeeping Mate Certificate of Competency, a licensed Deck Officer can expect to earn between $5,000 and $10,000 per month.

Apply for graduation

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, complete an Application for BCIT Credential [PDF] and submit it to Student Information and Enrolment Services.

Allow approximately six to eight weeks for processing.

All financial obligations to the Institute must be met prior to issuance of any credential.

Transport Canada Exemptions

In accordance with Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security (TCMSS), full-time students enrolled in the Nautical Sciences and Bridge Watch Rating programs are granted some exemptions towards Transport Canada Certificates of Competency. Refer to the information below for exemptions that may be applicable to you.