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About this course

In order to meet STCW 2010, the MCA has made external changes to the engineer academic structure, meaning the chief and second engineer course and exams ceased to exist on 1 January 2017. 

The replacement is the MCA Engineering Knowledge (Motor Propulsion) Management Level course and engineering knowledge (EK) exams, which is open to anyone holding a valid Engineer Officer of the Watch certificate. The programme leads to STCW 2010 Management Level III/2 certification.  

What you'll study

The course consists of a 10-week study programme followed by external exams conducted by the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) on behalf of the MCA. You may also be required to undertake Human Element, Leadership and Management (Management Level) and High Voltage (Management Level) courses if not already successfully completed. 

Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and oral exams guidance

When you have accrued sufficient sea time to sit an oral exam with the MCA, you are required to apply for a Notice of Eligibility (NoE). 

This form can be downloaded from the MCA website and must be returned with original copies of your supporting documentation (sea service testimonials, STCW certificates, exam pass certificates and ENG1) to prove you are eligible for an oral exam. 

Once you have your NoE you can book your oral exam at any of the MCA offices throughout the UK. The MCA office you have chosen will not confirm your booking until you have received your NOE. Be aware they do have busy periods, so it is best to book your oral exam well in advance to ensure you get your preferred date. 

A Notice of Eligibility is valid for five years from date of issue, and for three years after a successful oral exam. You must apply for your NOE well in advance of your anticipated exam date as they can take up to six weeks to be processed. 

Prerequisites

You must possess a minimum of a valid MCA EOOW III/1 certificate (or equivalent) and meet the requirements of MSN 1857 (as amended) to enrol on the course. 

Note: to be issued with a management certificate of competency, you are required to undertake an MCA oral exam at either second or chief engineer level. You must arrange your own oral exam dates. 

If you require a UK study visa, Solent University may require further evidence of eligibility in order to meet Home Office requirements.

Course start dates

8 January 2024

29 April 2024

Course fee

£2,250 (fee excludes High Voltage (Management Level) and Human Element, Leadership and Management at the Management Level)

Course information

  • Next available date

    On demand

  • Duration

    Flexible

  • Price

    On-request

  • Approvals

    MCA

  • Career progression

    Second/chief engineer unlimited CoC

  • Prerequisites

    See main course description.

Course availability

Please contact our short course sales team for more information around course availability.admissions@solent.ac.uk
023 8201 5066

Contact us

Please contact our short course sales team if you require more information about this course.

Online bookings will be confirmed with joining information within one working day of the booking being made. Confirmation of payment should be received in the normal way.

Please ensure that you follow the booking process and do not enter payment details more than once, unless you are booking more than one course. If you experience any issues, please email admissions@solent.ac.uk.

Admissions Team


Normal office hours are (UK time):

08.30 - 17.00 Monday to Thursday
08.30 - 16.30 Friday