Under the changes, Bachelor of Applied Science (Nautical Science) students will be able to study remotely for up to 45 weeks of their three-year degree, while Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) students will have the option to complete up to 34 weeks of their studies online.

AMC Head – Ocean Seafaring, Captain Darrel Silva, said the qualifications lead to careers onboard oceangoing vessels as engine watch-keepers, chief mates/masters, engineers and electro-technical officers. The new blended mode of delivery will be rolled out progressively from 2019-2021 and was prompted by feedback from students and industry.

“Typically, students complete their degree in phases, interspersed with time spent working on ships. While the majority of course delivery occurs in semesters one and two, students are also required to complete short courses that are offered outside of those periods,” Captain Silva said.

The new course structure gives students the option of studying remotely, meaning they will no longer have to take leave from work or be away from their families and home town for an extended time.

“For sponsoring companies, it means they won’t have to release their officers from work for long periods and incur the additional travel, accommodation and allowance expenses. Overall, the new program structure is designed to provide a better work-life-study balance.”

Students will be able to choose whether to attend on-campus classes or study remotely for the first eight to 10 weeks of the semester. They will then attend two to four weeks of consolidated practical, simulation and revision training before sitting the final exam on-campus or at an approved exam centre.

Published on: 17 Jan 2019