Completion of this program leaves the student better prepared as an entry-level merchant mariner than nearly all others they will be competing with in the job market.
Description
Ordinary Seaman (OS) Program
The Ordinary Seaman (OS) Program is the essential starting point for anyone entering the maritime industry and pursuing a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) at the entry level. This course equips new seafarers with the fundamental seamanship knowledge and hands-on skills required to perform deck duties safely and effectively under the supervision of licensed officers. It also serves as the foundation for advancing to higher ratings , while opening the pathway to additional required endorsements.
The program covers: basic seamanship, rules of the road and navigation basics, shipboard safety and emergency procedures, and watch standing duties. It also introduces U.S. Coast Guard regulations and STCW standards.
In addition to OS training, students will complete the RFPNW (Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch) course, which develops the knowledge and practical competence required to stand bridge watch under the supervision of an officer, as outlined in STCW Regulation II/4. Students also take the VPDSD (Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties) course, required under STCW Regulation VI/6, which prepares mariners to recognize and respond to shipboard security threats in compliance with the ISPS Code.
Together, these courses provide new mariners with the skills, certifications, and endorsements necessary to begin their careers at sea, ensuring they are USCG- and STCW-compliant, job-ready, and equipped for advancement in the merchant marine industry.