Considering Georgia's integration into the global economy and increasing demands in the maritime sector, it is essential to develop educational programs in maritime studies that produce competitive and skilled professionals, such as ship navigators. These programs should adhere to norms set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), national legislation, and educational standards.

BNU offers a bachelor's program in Maritime Navigation taught in English. Given the global nature and specialized requirements of the sector, this is a unique opportunity to gain expertise in a profession that will enhance your competitive edge in the job market.

Programme Purpose

The goal of the English language bachelor's program in Maritime Navigation is to train a highly qualified, practical work-oriented specialist (ship navigator). This program aims to equip graduates with the competencies specified by the STCW Convention regulations, meeting the demands of both the international and local educational and labor markets. Graduates will possess:

• Theoretical knowledge aligned with the requirements of the STCW Convention regulations necessary for professional activity and practical skills in fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a ship navigator. This includes understanding the specifics of the profession and its obligations, evaluating and analyzing problems, making decisions within one's competence, acting promptly according to established standards and rules, and being responsible for the performance of official functions and the safety of people on board.
• Independent assessment and analysis of situations, information and data using appropriate methods, identifying causes of technical, professional, social, and ethical problems, understanding cause-effect relationships and potential risks, and solving complex or unforeseen issues. This also involves choosing and justifying solutions, working effectively in a team, selecting the right communication and behavior models, and using appropriate technical and technological resources for work, including information and communication technologies and specific computer programs.
• Personal and professional development motivation and the ability to self-develop.
• Understanding and upholding the ethical standards of the maritime sector and working effectively in multicultural teams.
• Opportunities to continue education at the master's level, realize one's abilities in public or professional activities, and advance in one's career.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

The alumni

• Explains the fundamental principles, terminology, techniques, and the significance of navigational aids, symbols and charts related to maritime navigation for ensuring safe navigation
• Describes international maritime conventions, regulations and safety procedures governing maritime operations, as well as, the rights and responsibilities of shipowners, crew members and passengers. This includes collision prevention, navigational lights, emergency response protocols, environmental protection and other relevant regulations.

Skills

• Analyzes navigational data, environmental factors, ship stability characteristics, cargo stowage and handling principles, key aspects of a vessel’s technical condition and maintenance, technical specifications and regulatory requirements in order to identify potential hazards and make informed decisions regarding voyage planning.
• Develops a voyage plan by integrating knowledge of celestial navigation, electronic navigation systems and meteorology.
• Comprehensively evaluates the effectiveness of navigation strategies to ensure vessel stability, safety and compliance with maritime regulations.
• Establishes effective communication (both oral and written) using the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Standard Marine Communication Phrases, information and communication technologies and computer software to address navigational matters with crew members, ports, and other stakeholders in order to ensure safe navigation and efficient operations.
• Applies search and rescue procedures in maritime emergencies, as well as fire-fighting, medical emergency response and pollution prevention and control measures.

Responsibility and Autonomy

• In the working environment, under unforeseen conditions and navigational challenges—including emergency situations and risks arising from improper cargo stowage or distribution - the graduate acts in accordance with modern approaches to vessel maintenance and safe operation. Using appropriate procedures and resources, takes responsibility for decisions made and actions undertaken.
• In professional activities and maritime operations, demonstrates leadership and teamwork skills while working with colleagues, and acts in accordance with ethical and social norms, taking into account the ethnic, cultural and social values and characteristics of a multicultural team/crew.
• Recognizes the importance of innovation for successful professional practice and career advancement, and demonstrates the ability to independently update knowledge and develop professional competencies.

Field of employment

According to the STCW Convention and the Georgian Law "On the Education and Certification of Seafarers," a graduate who meets the certification requirements for a ship navigator, has recognized work experience on a ship, and has received proper training, can progressively attain higher ranks within the command staff of an ocean-merchant ship. This progression can lead from the position of a ship captain's assistant to ultimately becoming the ship's captain. Graduates of the program can be employed in various sectors such as the marine merchant fleet, passenger vessels, fishing fleets, and harbor support fleets, working at support, operational, and management levels.

Additionally, alumnis can find employment in both state and private institutions related to maritime transport, including international shipping and crewing companies, ship repair and maintenance enterprises, seaports, and mechanical workshops.

Unified National Examinations Code: 1400105

Awarded Academic Degree and Qualification: Bachelor of Maritime Science

Profession: Ship's Navigator

Program Volume: 240 ECTS credits

Head of the Program: George Gabedava, Professor

Exams to be Taken at the Unified National Exams: Georgian Language and Literature; Foreign Language (ENG); Mathematics, Geography, or Physics