BS in Marine Transportation in the Philippines

The Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT) is a four-year undergraduate degree program that leads to a professional career in the maritime industry, as a marine deck officer. Through this program, the students will be able to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge needed to accomplish their future duties and responsibilities as a marine officer and will be exposed to theories and practices in seamanship, navigation, ship business, meteorology, and marine laws.

Recommended Senior High School Strand

Students who are planning to take up BS Marine Transportation can select between Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) as their Senior High School (SHS) strand. 

Under STEM, there are three specialized subjects included in the curriculum that are maritime-related While in the TVL, there is a maritime specialization that provides a certificate that will allow them to work aboard the ship. 

Subjects and Curriculum

• Ship Handling and Maneuvering
• Ships, Ship Routines, and Construction
• Cargo Handling and Storage
• Merchant Ships Search and Rescue
• Deck Watch-keeping
• Shipboard Personnel Management
• Basic Marine Engineering
• Ship Management Systems
• Meteorology and Oceanography
• Radio Communication
• Basic Safety
• Maritime Laws
• Marine Pollution and Prevention

Admission Requirements

Qualifications

• The student must be a high school graduate. 

However, if they were not able to graduate high school, they may opt to take the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and pass the Philippine Educational Placement Test (PEPT) to qualify for college; the availability of courses for PEPT passers depend on the university.

• The students must pass the College Admissions Test of the university.

Basic Requirements

• Form 138 - High School Report Card (Original and Photocopy)
• Recommendation letter from High school principal and guidance counselor
• Most recent medical and dental health record
• Copy of NSO Certified birth certificate
• Certificate of Good moral character
• Copy of honorable dismissal
• Copy of high school diploma
• (1) Latest 2”x2” ID Picture

Program Outcome

Graduates of BS in Marine Transportation are expected to be able to:

• Solve problems related to the profession using mathematics, science and technology knowledge
• Keep up with industry developments and engage in lifelong learning
• Use modern tools and appropriate techniques to remain globally competitive in the profession
• Apply research methodologies while conducting research

On-The-Job Training/Internship

During the fourth year of the program, students are required to attend an On the Job Training (OJT) in an actual ship in order to expose students to the real-life applications of the concepts and techniques that they have learned.

Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an actual work setting. Usually, universities require them to submit a written report on their tasks, learning experiences, and hours rendered. Their work performance will also be evaluated by their immediate managers and will be submitted to their respective OJT coordinator. The number of hours required may differ in each university.

Board Exam

To become a Licensed Marine Engine Officer in the Philippines, a graduate of BS in Marine Transportation needs to choose from the Navigational Watch Licensure Examination, Chief Mate Licensure Examination, and Master Mariner Licensure Examination and pass the exam. The examination is conducted by the Board of Marine Deck and Marine Engine Officers under the supervision of the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC). Note that before taking any of the relevant licensure examinations, graduates of Marine Transportation must have an actual work experience aboard a ship, and the minimum length of service depends upon the requirements of the PRC.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of BS in Marine Transportation may pursue a career path in the marine industry. They may apply as an ordinary seaman, able seaman, boatswain, third mate, second mate, officer-in-charge of a navigational watch, merchant marine officer, maritime education and training officer, Philippine coast guard officer, or a naval officer.