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Oceans and marine careers

Bridge Watch Rating
Marine Engineering Technology
Marine Geomatics
Marine Navigation Technology
Oceans Technology

You're drawn to the ocean and the opportunities it creates. Maybe you've imagined working at sea or you're curious about the world beneath the surface. NSCC offers hands-on programs that can help you turn those interests into a career.

Find a program that fits your interests on or around the ocean

Whether you're drawn to life on the water, interested in how ships operate or curious about the technology used to explore the ocean, there's a program that's right for you.

Marine navigation and ship operations

Programs for learners who feel drawn to life on the water. Whether you're interested in navigating vessels, working as part of a crew, getting the qualifications needed for marine careers or building a long-term career at sea, these programs help you develop the skills and experience to get started.

Bridge Watch Rating
Begin your career at sea as a deckhand and member of a ship's watch team. Keep a lookout, steer the vessel, retrieve and launch lifeboats and much more.

Marine Foundations - Fishing Master, Fourth Class
Gain the skills and knowledge you need to prepare for Transport Canada examinations for Fishing Master, Fourth Class.

Marine Foundations - Marine Emergency Duties
Get the skills and certifications needed to work as a deck hand or crew member on a commercial ship.

Marine Foundations - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency
Gain the skills and Transport Canada certifications needed to safely operate small commercial vessels in near-coastal and sheltered waters.

Marine Navigation Management Technology
Advance your knowledge of the major principles of marine navigation, ship construction, stability, and ship safety and operations, and advance your career as a marine navigation officer.

Marine Navigation Technology
Study the major principles of marine navigation, seamanship, meteorology, ship construction and stability, and prepare for a career as a ship's navigation officer.

Marine engineering and mechanical systems

Programs for mechanically-minded learners who enjoy figuring out how things work. You like solving problems, working with your hands and understanding the systems that keep equipment running. These programs prepare you to work with the engines, power systems and technology used aboard modern vessels.

Marine Engineering Management Technology
Develop management skills, build your knowledge of the highly complex engineering systems of a modern ship and advance your career as an engineering officer.

Marine Engineering Technology
Build broad-based knowledge of the highly complex engineering systems of a modern ship and prepare for a career as an Engineering Officer.

Ocean mapping, sensing and robotics

Programs for people who are just as interested in technology as they are in the ocean. You're interested in what lies beneath the surface and how data, sensors and advanced technology help us explore, map and monitor the ocean. These programs combine science, technology and hands-on field experience.

Marine Geomatics
Pursue a successful career exploring and mapping the Earth's oceans.

Oceans Technology
Gain the knowledge-based skills used to create and apply technology solutions that are unique to ocean environments.

Why study marine careers at NSCC?

  • Ocean data and mapping skills the blue economy is hiring for. Nova Scotia's marine economy is a major driver of jobs and economic activity, creating demand for expertise in hydrographic charting, seabed mapping and ocean technologies. Graduates contribute to a growing ecosystem that includes COVE, Marine Renewables Canada and Canada's Ocean Supercluster.
  • Train in industry-standard facilities. Learn in specialized marine training environments that include a wave tank, free-fall lifeboat, fire training centre and state-of-the-art navigation and engine room simulators.
  • Gain hands-on experience at sea. Build practical skills through field exercises, mandatory sea time and real-world learning experiences that reflect today's marine industry.
  • Transport Canada-approved training. Many programs are recognized by Transport Canada, helping you build the knowledge, experience and certifications needed to start or advance a career at sea.
  • Prepare for careers in the marine industry. Develop skills for roles across the commercial marine industry, including ship operations, marine engineering, surveying, mapping and offshore industries.
  • Pathways to further study and career advancement. Whether building on existing credentials or planning your next step, opportunities include university transfer agreements, graduate certificates and additional industry certifications.
  • Live where you learn. Onsite accommodations are available for Nautical Institute students at Strait Area Campus, making it easy to stay connected to campus life and focus on your training.

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