This program of study is provided for students who intend to embark on a career in the maritime industry as navigating (Deck) Officers and Masters on commercial vessels. It provides the knowledge and skills required to safely manage and operate vessels. Course content includes navigation and vessel handling, cargo and passenger transport, vessel management, marine legislation and shipboard safety. The program is designed to integrate with professional short courses and training at sea so that successful students will not only obtain and Advanced Diploma or bachelor degree but an Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Certificate of Competency also. The program is fully compliant with the training and educational requirements of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW Convention, as amended in 2010). On completion of their second year, students who wish or need to exit from their studies will be awarded the Advanced Diploma of Applied Science (Nautical Science) if they have met the requirements for the award. Overseas students with approved prior learning may enter directly into Year 2 of the program by enrolling in the Advanced Diploma or bachelor degree as appropriate.

The program provides graduates the academic and other requirements to obtain the Certificate of Competency as a Deck Officer on commercial vessels through AMSA, which is internationally recognised.