Diploma in Nautical Science

We are evolving

From 2023, NMIT and the programme you have enrolled in will become part of
Te Pūkenga, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification. See more here.
Locations and dates

Nelson:

20 February 2023

(12 August excludes STCW Basic Training)

17 July 2023

(excludes STCW Basic Training)
Length

Duration will vary depending on your sea-time and any prior qualifications you may have. The programme includes a 36-43 weeks full time block course here in Nelson.
Total credits

300
Fees

2022: Average fee is between $6,000-$8,000 plus $240 Student Services Levy. Additional individual course fees may apply - dependent on prior learning experience.

A Compulsory Student Services Levy applies ($2 per credit).

Fees listed are for each year of the programme, indicative only and may vary with course selection.

View course details for individual fees.
National qualification code

NZ2515

This qualification is an approved training programme for MNZ Watchkeeper Deck (or IMO STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch).

Located in Nelson, the International Maritime Institute of New Zealand (IMINZ) is part of Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT). Since 1976 when we opened as the New Zealand School of Fisheries, we have been training outstanding seafarers. At IMINZ we offer a range of qualifications for both entry level and experienced seafarers.

This programme is for mariners who meet the requirements of Maritime New Zealand (MNZ)(external link) to apply for their Watchkeeper Deck Certificate of Competency, please see the Watchkeeper Deck MNZ guidelines(external link) for more information.

This qualification is also a recognised programme for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)(external link) certificate STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (OOW).

Training record book

There is no arranged work-based training within this programme.

However, students must have completed their Watchkeeper Deck Training Record Book prior to attending the block course. This book is presented to the Maritime New Zealand Examiner prior to the final oral examination.

These are all the different TAR books that MNZ accept.

International Shipping Federation On Board Training Record Book for Deck Cadets
Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) Deck Training Record Book (UK)
Global Met Training Book (used for the Diploma of Nautical Sciences)

Entry requirements

Academic requirements:

NCEA Level 2

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.

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)

Virtual Bridge Simulator

The Kongsberg ships navigation bridge simulator is used during all nautical training programmes.

Pacific Fishing Ministries visit

In 2016 the Pacific Island Fishing Ministries Ministers and Pacific Fisheries Officers visited the International Maritime Institute of New Zealand at NMIT in Nelson.

Virtual Bridge Simulator

The simulation system ensures you are using real navigation equipment and aids in the development of situational awareness. Scenarios can be tailored, using different vessel type and size, weather conditions and through variety of challenging situations.

Marine Engineering Simulation System

We have a Kongsberg marine engineering simulation system, used to train marine engineers from entry level to those of large merchant vessels and fishing vessels. This system can simulate various engine types including; oil tanker, ferry, diesel electric cruise ship and fishing vessel.

Fire Fighting Facilities

We have a three story marine fire-fighting facility which is used for basic, advanced and fire extinguisher training. Courses are designed specifically for seafarers and meet international STCW standards.

Electronic Chart Display Information System

At IMINZ we use a set of Transas Electronic Chart Display Information System (ECDIS) simulation stations for ECDIS and navigation training.

Student facilities

You will study in our modern, purpose-built facilities. On campus, we have a cafeteria and student centre, library, sports facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Student life

IMINZ is located on the NMIT Nelson campus, near the centre of Nelson city, within short walking distance of local cafes, bars, markets and shops.

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System

IMNZ have a set of Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) simulation stations, used for Restricted Operators Certificate and refresher training.

Lifeboat

We have a lifeboat davit launching system situated in Port Nelson. The same as typically found on board merchant navy vessels, large fishing trawlers, and factory ships. Students can experience an abandoned ship situation, and practice the launch and recovery of the lifeboat.

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