This programme forms part of a Merchant Navy cadetship so to undertake this programme, you will need to apply to a shipping or training company and obtain sponsorship. The companies cover the cost of your programme and related training courses, your uniform and pays you an allowance (how much varies slightly by company). You can find out more about how to apply to a company on the Careers at Sea website, where you can also find a list of sponsoring companies. The BSc (Hons) in Nautical Science will provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for a career in commercial shipping. Approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB), this three-year programme combines academic education with vocational training and 12 months' industrial placement onboard ships, leading to the award of Officer of the Watch (OOW) Certificate of Competency (CoC). The CoC is required if you wish to work onboard ship. Regarded as one of the UK's top maritime education and training providers, Fleetwood Nautical Campus (FNC) has strong industry partnerships, which could open the door to excellent employment opportunities. Many of our students come with sponsors to facilitate their sea time to obtain their OOW CoC.
Course details
| Qualification name | BSc (Hons) Nautical Science |
|---|---|
| Qualification level | 6 |
| Awarding organisation | Blackpool and The Fylde College |
| Learning method | Classroom based |
| Course type | Higher Education |
| Course hours | Full-time |
| Course start date | 16th February 2027 |
| Cost | £7,624.00 |
| Attendance pattern | Daytime |
You will need to meet the following criteria to apply for a place on this programme: 60 UCAS points at A/AS level, including subjects which support the application GCSE Mathematics (level 5 or above), Science and English Language (level 4 or above) or equivalent letter grades.
A detailed breakdown of the modules and assessment for this programme can be found from page 6 of the Programme" https: //fleetwoodnautical. blackpool. ac. uk/sites/default/files/documents… Specification.
Most courses are assessed via a combination of coursework, exams and practical assessments. Exams are formal, timed written assessments, carried out in a controlled environment and overseen by one or more invigilators. Coursework differs from exams in that it is usually non-timed and carried out independently. Practical assessments involve observation of your practical skills and competencies by a trained assessor. Please contact us for further details about the course.
The College is well known for its friendly and supportive environment. We have dedicated tutors to help you achieve your learning goals. We also have an experienced team of advisers who can provide additional support along with advice and guidance on a whole range of issues, free of charge. The important thing is that you make the most of your time with us and if we can help with that in any way, we will. Please contact us for further details about the course.
Most courses are assessed via a combination of coursework, exams and practical assessments. Exams are formal, timed written assessments, carried out in a controlled environment and overseen by one or more invigilators. Coursework differs from exams in that it is usually non-timed and carried out independently. Practical assessments involve observation of your practical skills and competencies by a trained assessor.
On completion of the programme, alongside the required industrial experience and safety courses, you will have the opportunity to be assessed by the MCA to gain Deck OOW Unlimited Certificate of Competency (CoC). This would normally enable you to take up the position of third or second officer on board a vessel.
| Name | FLEETWOOD NAUTICAL CAMPUS |
|---|---|
| Address |
BLACKPOOL AND THE FYLDE COLLEGE
Broadwater Fleetwood Lancashire FY7 8JZ Find on Google maps |
| maritime@blackpool.ac.uk | |
| Phone | 01253 779123 |
| Website | http://www.blackpool.ac.uk/nautical |
Other venues and dates
| Venue | Start date | Options |
|---|---|---|
| FLEETWOOD NAUTICAL CAMPUS | 7th September 2026 | View course |