Officer trainee Foundation Degree/Professional Diploma courses

Depending on your chosen route, your course will be either a Foundation degree or Scottish Professional diploma in marine operations, nautical science, navigation and maritime science or marine engineering – for around three years. Like all the courses, this includes your onboard training time learning how to become a merchant seafarer.

The grades you need

48 UCAS points from your A levels or Scottish Highers. And GCSE Grades A-C / 9-4 or equivalent Scottish Standard/National 5’s in English, Maths, a Science-based subject plus at least one other. This may vary so do your research on application pages before you apply.

Is this the course for you?

If you thrive in an academic environment but want hands-on learning too, this could be ideal. You’ll need to be able to use your initiative for the self-study and research activities included in your course. And be ambitious – keen to get the highest levels of seafaring certification as quickly as possible, maybe continuing onto an Honours degree straightaway or at a later date.