OOW (Unlimited) – Examination Route

This OOW (Unlimited) – Examination Route programme enables experienced seafarers to achieve STCW Officer of the Watch (OOW) certification by the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) written examination route. Candidates will receive tuition and assessment in HNC (Nautical Science) Part 1 units and NAEST(O) course as well as preparation for the SQA exams and MCA signals and oral exams, and will be expected to engage fully in the learning process and carry out some work independently.

Candidates will undertake a two-term course of study with continuous assessment and end-of-course tests in most subjects, plus two written exams in Navigation, and Stability and Operations, conducted by the SQA on behalf of the MCA. Successful candidates are awarded an HNC Part 1 in Nautical Science.

Candidates must hold STCW certificates in Medical First Aid, Advanced Fire Fighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats, GMDSS General Operators Certificate, and Efficient Deck Hand before taking their MCA oral exam. If not already held, these courses can be undertaken outside of the main course.

For additional information, please review the Maritime Career Progression Charts for deck certification.

Course content

• HNC (Nautical Science) Part 1 unit in Bridge Watchkeeping, Celestial Navigation, Chartwork, Tides and Sailings, Emergency Response and Communications, Cargo Work, Meteorology, Ship Stability, Ship Construction, and Law and Management.
• Preparation for SQA Navigation, and Stability and Operations papers.
• Preparation for MCA signals and oral exams.
• Navigation Aids and Equipment Simulator Training (Operational Level) course – NAEST(O)

Course Availability & Fees

Please contact the Admissions and Recruitment team for further information:

Tel: +44 (0)23 8201 5015

Email: wma.admissions@solent.ac.uk