What is Blended Learning?

Blended learning is a form of distance learning that combines online study with college-based assessment, allowing you to qualify for a Certificate or Diploma of Higher Education (Cert HE or Dip HE) in Nautical Science, from anywhere in the world.

Ideal if you are based overseas, work full-time or prefer a flexible mode of study, distance learning facilitates experiential learning while providing you with valuable sea time. Up to three years is available to complete the programmes, but most complete in a shorter period of time.

The benefits of blended learning

• Teaching methods to suit different learning styles
• A vast range of up-to-the-minute interactive resources
• Round-the-clock accessibility from all over the world
• Monitor and track your progress through the course
• Full use of the college’s Learning Resource Centre through the remote desktop
• Submit assessments electronically
• Regular supportive feedback from our expert tutors
• Practical information and advice from our Blended Learning team

Assessment

Our Cert HE and Dip HE in Nautical Science combine formative online assessments with practical and summative written assessments undertaken at college. 

Once you have reached the required standard in each unit you will either attempt a pre-college test for summative written exams at college or begin the on-line summative assignment for units assessed by that method, please see the programme specifications for further details.

Once you successfully pass a pre-college test, you can plan to attend college for the summative assessments subject to availability of written exams. Dates for the summative written assessments at college, are published for each term.  

These qualifications contribute towards obtaining a Certificate of Competency and prepare you for the MCA written and oral examinations.

Scholarship opportunities

There are two Merchant Navy scholarships available to serving seafarers, managed by the Marine Society. 

The Nautilus Slater Scholarship Fund helps ratings study for the first certificate of competency. Worth up to £20,000, this scholarship is administered by the Marine Society on behalf of Nautilus International. Find out more at https://www.marine-society.org/slater-scholarship

The Worcester Scholarship is aimed at officers who wish to take academic qualifications such as a bachelors or masters degree in Nautical Science, Marine Engineering or Electro-Technical. In certain circumstances, it can be used for advanced professional qualifications where there is no support available anywhere else or for those who are overqualified for a Nautilus Slater Scholarship.