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 residentsare invited to participate in thefully-funded Bridge Watch Rating programto learn and enhance 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, Camosun’s 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. Marine-basedemployers are excited to hire our graduates!
A Camosun success story
Richard Watts, a recent graduate from the 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)
- Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP)
- Marine Basic First Aid Certificate (MBFA)
- STCW Basic Safety Training (BST)
- STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC)
Program cost
- All tuition,books, and course materialsare provided.
- Lunch or lunch funds are provided for all students for each day a student is on campus
- Bus passes for travel within the greater Victoria area are provided
- Students who must relocate to attend training may be eligible to receiveaccommodations and meals for the time that they are away from home.
Costs not covered:
- Rent/mortgage
- Vehicle payments and insurance
- Groceries
- Child/elder/pet care
- Phone and internet
- Extended health care
Program start
Multiple start dates are available throughout the year. The course is offered at ̽ in Victoria with supplementary training at BCIT in North Vancouver.ContactBridgeWatchRating@camosun.cafor more details on dates, location, entrance requirements, and prerequisites, or to apply for the Bridge Watch Rating program.
Entrance requirements
Applications are accepted throughout the year from women and Indigenous people who are Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents. Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and prerequisites to be waitlisted for a seat.
Prerequisites
- High School grade of 50% or higher in English 12 OR First Peoples’ English 12 OR English Studies 12 OR academic assessment
- High School grade of 50% or higher in any Math 11 OR academic assessment
- Government-issued photo ID
For the open enrollment Bridge Watch Rating Program, please visit the Professional Studies & Industry Training site.
ContactBridgeWatchRating@camosun.cafor more details.
Class hours: 8:30 am-4 pm, Monday - Friday excluding statutory holidays and College closures.
Contact us
ContactBridgeWatchRating@camosun.cafor more details.
Interested in other ?
ProSIT,, or 250-370-4563 for registration information.
Capt. Morteza Peivast,peivastm@camosun.ca, 250-370-4016 for course information.
A career at sea!
Get the skills to start a nautical career aboard commercial vessels.