Course Overview

Officer cadet training schemes typically last for around three years and are split into five phases which alternate between academic studies, practical experience and safety training at Warsash Maritime School and seagoing periods to gain practical shipboard experience.

To enrol on an officer cadet training scheme, candidates apply directly to shipping companies, not through UCAS. This is because officer cadet training is fully sponsored by the shipping company, covering course fees and also providing the means for gaining the mandatory work-based learning on board ship. Cadets will often also receive a small salary or living allowance while they are training.

Marine engineer officers are responsible for the maintenance and operation of the ship’s main propulsion machinery and auxiliary plant, including deck machinery, air conditioning plants and domestic and electrical services. During their training, engineer cadets are taught the necessary academic underpinning knowledge, as well as engineering workshop skills training, allowing them to develop a detailed understanding of the safe operation and maintenance of the engine room and auxiliary machinery of a modern merchant vessel.

General Eligibility

• A numerate subject or national engineering award at level 3.

• GCSE grade 4 or above in at least mathematics, English and science, plus one other (previously grade C).

• Entry to this course is through a sponsored cadetship; please see the Warsash Maritime School website for details.

• For further information about UK qualifications, please refer to our course entry requirement statement.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• • IELTS minimum 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each individual component

  • TOEFL IBT minimum 80 with a minimum of 20 in each individual component

  • Duolingo English Language Test - 115 overall with minimum of 95 in each component