Nautical Sciences

Delivery Mode: BLENDED

• This program will be delivered during COVID-19 as a combination of online and on-campus learning.
• Faculty will notify students of when their attendance on campus will be required.
• We are putting measures in place for your safety and well-being, ensuring that all safety protocols are addressed. Please see BCIT COVID-19 Return to Operations for details on the mandatory procedures that have been implemented.
• Your education is our priority and we will continue to deliver the applied instruction, collaborative experience, and industry connections that you expect from BCIT.

Note: Due COVID-19 the ability to obtain a Transport Canada (TC) medical may be difficult.  BCIT will accept application without a TC Seafarers medical and if found competitive for the program you may be made a conditional offer.  Once a TC Medical is obtained (fit-Deck Service) after application and you have been made a conditional offer for acceptance you will receive full acceptance. Do you see yourself as the Captain of a cruise ship, super-tanker, or tugboat? This program is your first step towards a career as an international Master Mariner in the commercial marine industry. 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.

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.

The program

The Nautical Sciences program is a four-year full-time Co-operative program accredited by Transport Canada Marine Safety and Security (TCMSS). You will 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

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. Upon successful completion of the fourth year, you will receive exemptions towards Standards for Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Chief Mate Certificate of Competency examinations.