HNC/FdSc Operational Yacht Science

Course information

This programme is designed for those who aspire to be the future crew bosuns officers and captains of the superyacht sector. It is designed to run alongside relevant Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) awards, to give deeper knowledge and understanding of the topics, and to give you more choice and an edge for your future career choices. It is run in partnership with UKSA in Cowes, Isle of Wight, as part of their Professional Yacht Cadetship.

The cadetship requires a minimum of three years commitment to training, with phases of study on the Isle of Wight as well as periods of working onboard superyachts around the world. You will be required to make a Professional Yacht Cadetship application to UKSA, followed by a two day selection in Cowes, Isle of Wight.

On successful completion of the one year HNC, you will gain direct entry onto the second year of the programme, allowing you to gain an FdSc Operational Yacht Science qualification.

This programme does not follow the traditional academic year as it is designed around the superyacht season. It is studied in intensive blocks of time at UKSA and supported through Moodle (our virtual learning platform). There are additional costs for this programme to cover the cost of the Cadetship. You may be able to get help with this, contact us for more information. Time spent working on board yachts in between phases of study at UKSA are fully paid periods of employment. Earning on average €2,000 a month (Deckhand).

Download FdSc Operational Yacht Science Specification at https://www.cornwall.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/FdSc-Operational-Yacht-Science-Programme-Specification-2024-25.pdf  

Download HNC Operational Science Specification at https://www.cornwall.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/HNC-Operational-Yacht-Science-Programme-Specification-2024-25.pdf  

What You Will Learn

Indicative Modules Year 1:

Yacht Operations
Yacht Theory & Practice
Navigation & Meteorology
Marine Engineering
Personal & Employability Skills Development

Optional Modules:

Reflective Practice
Sail Strategy

Entry Requirements

48 UCAS points from AS and A-Levels (at least 32 points must be at A2-level) or relevant level 3 qualification, ie BTEC National Diploma / BTEC Extended Diploma - PPP Grades required (specific unit grades may be requested). Access to HE Diplomas in a relevant subject - 45 credits at level 3 (specific unit grades may be requested). Plus GCSEs at grade C/grade 4 or above in English Language, Science and Mathematics: alternatives at Level 2 may be considered. Mature applicants with relevant experience but without the stated qualifications will be considered individually and are encouraged to apply.

Assessment

You will be assessed using a range of methods. Some are practical, although the majority of assessment consists of reports and critical analysis of the yachting environment. The yachtmaster elements of the cadetship are practical assessments.

Progression

Possible Progression (subject to availability and successful completion of the FdSc) – BSc (Hons) Navigation & Maritime Science final year at University of Plymouth Possible Careers: Enter the superyacht industry after phase 1 of study at UKSA in Cowes as a Deckhand. Through industry experience and continued phases of certification and training at UKSA progress to: Lead Deckhand Bosun Officer Captain After a life at sea/shoreside roles: Superyacht brokerage Yacht management Yacht build project management Superyacht recruitment – Superyacht insurance

Falmouth Marine School

Falmouth Marine School

With a modern campus in the centre of Falmouth and boat workshops on the waterfront, studying at Falmouth Marine School is joyous. Few colleges in the country can boast the exceptional experience you will have, whether it’s studying to become the next marine scientist, marine engineer, boatbuilder, or watersports industry expert. There is a special, friendly and dynamic atmosphere on campus, which is backed up by a supportive and highly knowledgeable team. It’s no surprise that our alumni always recommend Falmouth Marine School to have your #careercollege experience.

Find out more about our Falmouth campus

Events

Superyacht Engineer Programme Taster Session

University

• Dates
  2nd November 2024, 10:00am - 12:00pm
  30th November 2024, 10:00am - 12:00pm
  

Come along to our Taster Session at Falmouth Marine School to see if this programme is an ideal fit for you! View Event

Open Event and Taster Session at Falmouth Marine School

16-19 Adult Apprenticeship University

• Dates
  1st February 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
  29th March 2025, 10:00am - 12:00pm
  20th May 2025, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
  

Discover our courses, apprenticeships, tour our campuses, meet our amazing team and try a subject before you apply at one of our Open Days and Taster Sessions! View Event