Aquaculture, Marine and Maritime Skills SCQF 5 NQ
Study mode: You study most days of the week and complete all course units /modules in the standard time., You will study over a short period of time.
Course type: NQ
Study at: Mallaig; Stornoway; Ullapool
Start in: January; August
Learning mode: You access classes and/or materials digitally., You will come together with other students for short, intensive periods (e.g., a day, week or longer).
Duration: Full time: 19 weeks
How: You attend classes at scheduled times, shown on your timetable.
What is special about this course?
Launch or expand your career in Scotland's growing marine and aquaculture industries with this practical, industry-focused course. You'll study the theory online, giving you the flexibility to learn from any location, including your local UHI North, West and Hebrides campuses and centres, while attending practical training sessions at Mallaig, Ullapool or Stornoway, where you'll develop essential hands-on skills and gain recognised industry qualifications.
Designed for school leavers, career changers and those already working in the sector, this course combines flexible online study with practical, hands-on training to prepare you for employment or further study in the maritime industry.
Whether you're looking to start a new career, build on your existing experience or gain recognised maritime qualifications, this course provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to take the next step. You'll learn from experienced maritime professionals while developing the confidence and competence to work safely across a range of marine environments.
There are no set entry requirements for this course.
- You should have an interest in the Maritime Sector or already work within it
If you're considering a career change, don't let a lack of maritime experience stop you from applying for this course. Basic training will be given to help you gain the skills required to work within this industry. - You will be at least 16 years of age at the start of the course
- Mature students are very welcome
On successful completion, you'll achieve:
- National Qualification (NQ) in Aquaculture, Marine and Maritime Skills (SCQF Level 5)
- Industry-recognised STCW, MCA and RYA qualifications
Throughout the course you'll develop knowledge and practical skills in:
- Seamanship
- Aquaculture
- Small Boat Engineering
- Navigation
- Rope Handling
- Boat Handling
- Maritime Environment
- Digital and ICT Skills
During your practical sessions you'll work towards:
- RYA Powerboat Level 2
- RYA VHF Radio (SRC)
- Navigation
- Seamanship and Rope Handling
- STCW Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
- STCW Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
- STCW Elementary First Aid (EFA)
- Skills for employment
Alongside your maritime training, you'll also develop valuable transferable skills including:
- Digital literacy
- Communication and teamwork
- Problem solving
- Personal and professional development
- Entrepreneurship
- Work readiness
- Sustainability and net zero awareness
- Wellbeing and resilience
How will I study my course?
- Full Time
- Online
The course is delivered over 19 weeks, combining online learning with practical training. You'll typically study for around 18 hours per week, including scheduled online teaching, independent study and practical sessions at Mallaig, Stornoway or Ullapool.
In-person residentials will take place 7th – 9th October and 28th – 31st October in Mallaig, Stornoway and Ullapool.
Please note that you must arrange your travel and accommodation for residentials, and students are responsible for any associated costs.
How long will my course last?
19 Weeks- Mallaig
- Stornoway
- Ullapool
- Online
Start date
August and January each year.
Fees
Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.
Funding
Students may also qualify for bursary funding.
Equipment
To take part in the online elements of the course, you'll need:
- A reliable internet connection
- A computer or laptop with a camera and microphone
- Headphones or speakers for online classes
What can I do on completion of my course?
This course provides an excellent foundation for careers in:
- Aquaculture
- Commercial fishing
- Harbour operations
- Ferry services
- Merchant Navy
- Logistics
- Fish farm operations
- Leisure marine industries
- Boat crew and marine support roles
Successful completion can lead to:
- NC Shipping and Maritime Operations (SCQF Level 6)
- Merchant Navy cadetships
- Modern Apprenticeships
- Employment within Scotland's marine, maritime and aquaculture sectors
Apply for Aquaculture, Marine and Maritime Skills SCQF 5 NQ
We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.