School of Marine Operations

Drew Strannigan, Head of School

The School of Marine Operations specialises in offering the full range of Bridge Simulatorbased Navigation courses. In addition to these we also offer courses in safety, technical operations, and short STCW courses.

The training and education of the crew is a vital aspect in the manning policy for any shipping company; simulator training and practical working knowledge in the field of Marine Operations play an important part in enhancing skills and meeting the needs of companies. The School of Marine Operations offer a full range of courses to this end; from mandatory training for Deck Officers to a range of short courses for the professional development of Merchant Navy Officers and crew. Furthermore, the School also offers theory-based yachting courses for the local community and leisure industry. To enable the School to offer these courses we are equipped with modern facilities, featuring a state-of-the-art Full Mission Ship-Handling Simulator, which is suitable for all kinds of navigation training – shiphandling training for Captains, Officers and Pilots – and can also be used for research and in the instruction of yacht skippers. In addition to this, we also have a Liquid Cargo Handling Simulator for the oil and gas industry, GMDSS Simulator for training officers in radio communications, and an Electronic Navigation Laboratory for Deck Officers.

A contemporary Marine Skills Centre, equipped to the highest specification, is under construction. This will further enhance our delivery of high quality courses for today’s shipping industry. The development will enhance the Clyde waterfront in an iconic manner, while simultaneously providing a practical rescue centre for the Strathclyde Fire Brigade.

In addition to these resources, our teaching areas are of a very high standard, and are fully supported with modern IT equipment. Our lecturers are experienced Senior Merchant Navy Officers; Captains of Modern Ships – from Container, Oil Tanker, and Passenger Vessels – further equipped with experience in other professional roles in the sector (such as Surveyors and Superintendents, for example), and all are fully qualified professionals in the Higher and Further Education sector.

Other Services that are available for Companies and Students range from a nearby 3-star hotel and local leisure facilities, arranged transfers from local airports, to enhanced officer accommodation and dining facilities in our Hall of Residence, buffet lunches and dining in the College refectory, access to College leisure facilities, and a friendly College-wide welcome from all our staff.

Courses within the School of Marine Operations