Diploma in Nautical Science

Entry criteria

Academic requirements:

• NCEA Level 2

OR

Qualification on the NZQF at Level 4 or above in a related discipline

Alternative requirements

Applicants who are unable to evidence that they meet Academic Entry Requirements, but who can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, maybe approved for alternative entry by the Curriculum Manager or delegate.

English language requirements:

If English is not the applicant’s first language, applicants will need to provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Table:(external link)

• IELTS 6.0 Academic (no lower than 5.5 in each band)

Note: Applicants who do not have evidence of English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, may contact NMIT for an assessment

Applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance requirements are not required to provide evidence of English language skills

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

Information for applicants

Applicants should be aware that they must provide a current medical examination certificate issued by a GP, a Seafarers Medical Certificate, or equivalent (not more than two years old) to the Programme Administrator prior to commencing any one of the following courses:

• FAC511 STCW Medical First Aid
• FFT511 STCW Advanced Fire Fighting
• SCC511 STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats

Applicants should be aware that there are MNZ sea time, medical and eyesight requirements for the MNZ licence which this programme contributes towards. Applicants should refer to www.maritimenz.govt.nz(external link) website for details.

Seatime

Although you can commence training at NMIT earlier, you will need to check that your Sea-time meets MNZ’s criteria before you are able to apply for a Certificate of Competence. NMIT strongly recommend a pre-sea approval if you are unsure if your sea-time will be acceptable to MNZ.

Find out more about the Maritime New Zealand requirements.(external link)

Admission to the diploma is gained through

• Option 1: At least 12 months’ sea service as part of an approved training programme (such as a cadet programme) that includes on-board training, documented in an approved training record book. The 12 months is to include at least six months of bridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of the master or a qualified officer.
• Option 2: At least 36 months’ sea service. The 36 months is to include at least six months of bridge watchkeeping duties under the supervision of the master or a qualified officer. The candidate may or may not have completed an approved training record book. Sea service should be recorded in a Seafarers Log Book. This should be presented and include details of dates served on board and vessel details.