Find out how sponsorship can help you follow an accredited navigation and maritime science degree pathway
You do not need to be sponsored by a shipping company to be accepted onto the navigation and maritime science courses and can still can go on to work in the shore-based maritime sector or progress to a masters degree. If you are not sponsored you will study on the unaccredited pathway.
If you wish to become a Ships Officer and complete your Officer of the Watch certificate, you will need to be sponsored by a shipping company, spend 12 months (total) integrated training at sea in addition to completing the degree course, following the accredited pathway.
The University does not guarantee sponsorship for any student.
You will need to arrange sponsorship yourself. UK passport holders are eligible to apply for UK government sponsorship schemes. Training organisations that represent groups of companies visit us in year 1 and interview for sponsorship, however success is not guaranteed. Staff can advise on this process.
If you are a UK passport holder and have not been resident in the UK, you will need to establish residency. In this case you should speak to navigation and maritime science staff for advice.
If you are from a country other than the UK it is recommended that you speak to navigation and maritime science staff, so that you fully understand your options.
For all applicants we strongly recommend you attend one of the University offer holder days, either physically or virtually to discuss these issues.
Overseas students (those without a UK passport) who wish to gain their Officer of the Watch certificate must arrange their own sea time.
Professional course costs are usually met by the sponsoring company.