Program at a glance
Credential
Certificate
Work experience
None
Study options
Full-time
Open to International
No
Length
17 weeks
Nautical training
Begin your career at sea!
Indigenous people and women who are Canadian citizens or Permanent ResidentsÌýare invited to participate in theÌýfully-funded Enhanced Bridge Watch Rating programÌýto learn and develop seamanship skills, earn nationally-recognized certifications, and embark upon an exciting, entry-level career in the Marine industry.
Supported by Transport Canada and OPP (Oceans Protection Plan), and via a partnership with BCIT,Ìý Camosun’s Enhanced Bridge Watch Rating program provides a pathway for you to enter into rewarding marine sector careers. You’ll learn the essential knowledge and skills related to the practice of seamanship, navigation, standards of safe working procedures, and the hazards associated with the marine environment.
Learn from experienced sailors, take field trips, practice hands-on techniques, undertake a practicum at sea, and earn nationally recognized Transport Canada marine certifications.Ìý Marine-basedÌýemployers are excited to hire our graduates!
A Camosun success story
Richard Watts, a recent graduate from the Enhanced Bridge Watch Rating program, talks about his experience with the program.
Train on a variety of marine vessels
The program is designed to provide entry-level personnel with base-level knowledge of seamanship to prepare for a career at sea with:
- BC Ferries,
- Canadian Coast Guard,
- Local tug operators,
- Cruise ships,
- Deep-sea vessels, and more.
In addition to working on commercial vessels, career opportunities exist for:
- Water-based ecotourism,
- Commercial fishing,
- Sport fishing,
- Travel,
- Other recreational marine guiding roles.
Weyla and Eunice are now full-fledged deck hands and have well-paying jobs waiting for them in their home community of Beecher Bay with Kotug/Horizon Maritime. We’re so proud of them!
Get the skills you need to begin a career at sea
Training covers the hands-on skills and coursework required by Transport Canada for employment. Over 17 weeks (depending on electives) this full-time program is based on three modular courses designed to prepare you for a career in the marine industry.
Gain hands-on skills and knowledge in:
- Keeping a lookout
- Steering the vessel
- Operating communication systems
- Anchoring and mooring
- Responding to emergencies
- Basic environmental protection procedures
- Assisting in cargo operations
- Handling ropes and chains
Earn nationally recognized training certificates
- Transport Canada Bridge Watch Rating Training Certificate
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS 2015)
- Restricted Operator’s Certificate – Maritime Commercial (ROC – MC)Ìý
- Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP)
- Marine Basic First Aid Certificate (MBFA)
- STCW Basic Safety Training (BST)
- STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC)