If you plan to work at sea, the first thing every mariner must understand is the STCW requirements — the global training and certification rules that make you legally qualified to serve on ships. Whether you are a deck cadet, an engineer, or a rating, the STCW Convention sets the foundation for your maritime career.
Here at SeaEmploy.com, we’ve put together a real-world guide to help you understand what courses are mandatory, what depends on your company or flag state, and which parts you can complete online. Let’s keep it simple and to the point — because seafarers don’t have time for unnecessary theory.
Understanding STCW
The Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention was established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to ensure all seafarers worldwide meet the same minimum competence standards.
Official source: IMO – STCW Convention Overview
In short:
- STCW is your entry ticket to work on board any internationally trading ship.
- It defines training for officers and ratings based on their position and ship type.
- Every mariner must hold valid STCW certificates before joining a vessel.
Basic STCW Certificates for All Seafarers
Before anything else, every crew member — regardless of rank or department — must complete Basic Safety Training (BST). This course includes four parts:
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST) — How to survive in case of abandonment.
- Fire Prevention and Firefighting (FPFF) — Practical firefighting and prevention.
- Elementary First Aid (EFA) — Basic emergency care at sea.
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) — Awareness of shipboard life and teamwork.
👉 Official reference: IMO STCW Basic Training Requirements
These courses are mandatory for everyone — deck officers, engineers, and ratings. Most schools require in-person attendance because the training includes practical fire and water exercises. Some theory elements can be taken online, but the practical sessions must be completed physically.
STCW Requirements for Deck Officers
Deck officers hold navigation and safety responsibilities, so the STCW sets higher standards.
Minimum certificates for a Deck Officer
- Basic Safety Training (BST) — as above.
- Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) — proves your watchkeeping competence.
- Radar, ARPA, and Bridge Resource Management (BRM) courses — essential for navigation and teamwork.
- GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (GOC) — required if you handle ship communication systems.
- Medical Care and Advanced Firefighting — mandatory for Chief Mates and Masters.
Official guidance: U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center – Officer Endorsements
Most of these courses require physical presence, especially simulators for radar, ARPA, and bridge operations. Only refresher theory modules or knowledge updates may be available online through approved e-learning platforms.
STCW Requirements for Engine Officers
Engine officers are responsible for machinery operation and safety. Their training focuses on engineering knowledge and emergency response.
Minimum certificates for an Engine Officer
- Basic Safety Training (BST)
- Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch (OICEW)
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSCRB)
- Advanced Firefighting
- Engine Room Resource Management (ERRM)
- High Voltage or Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) course for modern ships with advanced electrical systems.
Reference: MITAGS – Guide to STCW Certification
Simulator and practical workshops are mandatory for engine officers, particularly for high-voltage and ERM training. Online modules are possible only for theory or refresher courses, depending on flag state approval.
STCW for Ratings (Deck and Engine)
Ratings support ship operations and must be trained for safe working practices.
Minimum certificates for Ratings
- Basic Safety Training (BST)
- Security Awareness or Designated Security Duties
- Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) or Rating Forming Part of an Engineering Watch (RFPEW)
Reference: Edumaritime – STCW Requirements for Ratings
Many maritime schools now allow blended (online + practical) training for these certificates, but onboard assessment and sea service verification remain essential.
STCW Requirements for Tanker and Gas Carrier Crew
Working on tankers or gas carriers means dealing with dangerous cargoes — so you need additional qualifications under STCW Chapter V.
Oil and Chemical Tanker Officers
- Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations – for all officers and crew involved.
- Advanced Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations – for Chief Officers and Masters in charge of cargo handling.
Reference: STCW Code Section V/1-1
Liquefied Gas Carrier Officers
- Basic Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations – mandatory for all serving on gas carriers.
- Advanced Training for Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations – required for senior officers managing cargo systems.
Reference: Edumaritime – Gas Tanker Training Requirements
These courses must include practical simulator sessions and cannot be done purely online. Some theoretical parts can be completed remotely through certified training providers, but practical approval by flag state is always required.
STCW for Passenger Ships and Cruise Vessels
Passenger ships and cruise vessels carry thousands of people, so the STCW adds special training modules under Regulation V/2.
Minimum certificates for Passenger Ship Crew
- Crowd Management Training – for all personnel assigned duties during emergencies.
- Crisis Management and Human Behavior – for Masters, Chief Mates, Chief Engineers, and Hotel Managers.
- Passenger Safety, Cargo Safety, and Hull Integrity Training – for officers responsible for passengers’ well-being.
Reference: IMO STCW Passenger Ship Requirements
Cruise companies often add their own training: environmental awareness, customer care, or advanced first aid. Most STCW passenger ship training requires classroom or onboard presence due to drills and group exercises.
Online vs. In-Person STCW Courses
You can take some Security Awareness or Designated Security Duties courses fully online through approved providers such as SQ Learn.
However, courses involving firefighting, survival, or simulator practice are strictly in-person. Even blended formats require you to show up for practical drills. Always confirm the course’s approval from your flag state or Maritime Administration before enrolling online.
Mandatory vs. Company-Specific Requirements
Absolutely mandatory (under STCW):
- Basic Safety Training (PST, FPFF, EFA, PSSR)
- Role-specific certification (OICNW/OICEW)
- Ship-type training (tanker, gas, passenger)
- Medical fitness certificate
Company or flag-specific requirements:
- Advanced Leadership, Bridge Resource Management, or DP courses
- Extra passenger care or hotel safety modules (especially on cruise ships)
- National endorsements or revalidation procedures
If you’re starting your career or upgrading your rank, check the IMO or your flag state’s website before booking any course. And for regular updates on maritime jobs, certification changes, and offshore opportunities, visit SeaEmploy.com — a platform made by mariners, for mariners.
