Do I get paid whilst training?
Yes. Not only do you receive a salary or allowance but, in addition, all college costs including tuition and examination fees and accommodation charges, and shipboard living and meal costs, are paid.
Will I get nationally recognised qualifications at the end of training?
Yes. You will not only get an Officer of the Watch certificate of competency issued by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, which is recognised by most of the countries of the world with merchant fleets of any significant size, but you will also attain a Higher National Diploma/Certificate (HND/HNC) or Degree, and other national awards.
What is the earning potential if I reach the position of Master or Chief Engineer?
Excellent. Whether you achieve this is up to you. The Master or Chief Engineer of the most complex vessels can earn in excess of £ 50,000 per annum and shore opportunities exist with a wide range of salary levels. However, the opportunities to earn the highest salary levels are limited in number and are only achieved by the very best candidates. The opportunities to earn mid-level salaries are significant and well within the reach of most applicants within three to five years of qualifying.
One of my aims is to qualify for a degree, but if I follow an HND/HNC programme and do not study for 'A' or 'H' levels now before starting the programme, will a degree become out of reach?
No. Opportunities exist for candidates with a marine HND to spend a further two or three semesters at college to achieve a degree.