Modular Courses

Modular Courses in Merchant Navy

What Are Modular Courses?

Modular Courses are short-term, specialized training programs mandated by the Directorate General of Shipping (D.G. Shipping), Government of India, to ensure that all officers, crew, and seafarers are adequately trained in safety, survival, security, and pollution prevention in compliance with STCW (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping) 2010 guidelines.

Who Needs Modular Courses?

These courses are mandatory for:

• Deck Officers (Captain, Chief Mate, etc.)

• Engine Officers (Chief Engineer, 2nd Engineer, etc.)

• GP Rating / Engine Rating / Deck Rating

• Electro-Technical Officers (ETO)

• Catering Staff (Cook, Steward, etc.)

• New entrants & existing seafarers for revalidation

• List of Essential Modular Courses

  Basic STCW Courses (For All Seafarers)

  1. PST – Personal Survival Techniques

  2. PSSR – Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities

  3. EFA – Elementary First Aid

  4. FPFF – Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting

  Duration: 6 to 12 days
  Mandatory for all joining merchant navy for the first time.

   

Advanced STCW Courses (For Officers & Key Personnel)

1. AFF – Advanced Fire Fighting

2. MFA – Medical First Aid

3. PSCRB – Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats

4. SSO – Ship Security Officer

5. BRM/ERM – Bridge/Engine Room Resource Management

6. TASCO – Tanker Familiarization (Oil, Chemical, Gas)

7. GMDSS – Global Maritime Distress & Safety System

8. ARPA & Radar – For navigational safety

9. Refresher Courses – For revalidation of COC and STCW

Special Modular Courses

• Crowd Management – For passenger ships

• Crisis Management – For senior crew on passenger ships

• HLO (Helicopter Landing Officer) – For offshore vessels

• OCTCO/CTCO – Chemical/Gas Tanker Cargo Operations

• Medical Care – Advanced medical training onboard

Why Are Modular Courses Important?

• Ensure compliance with international maritime laws

• Increase safety awareness and preparedness

• Mandatory for joining or rejoining ships

• Essential for promotion and career progression

• Required for Certificate of Competency (COC) revalidation

Tips for Seafarers:

• Always keep your STCW modular course certificates updated.

• Check DGS e-Governance portal for approved MTIs and validity.

• Attend Refresher Courses before expiry of existing certificates (5 years).

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