MARS 55004 - Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS)

Course Description

Prerequisite: AB, Mate, or Master's License

Note: It shall be the policy of this school that all students provide appropriate photo identification upon enrollment.

This course framework requires a little knowledge of maritime radio communication practice but a working knowledge of English as a second language. Elementary computer skills are assumed in the recommended course timetable. Candidates are assumed to have basic computer skills to participate in the course. However, additional computer skills training will be required by candidates without any basic proficiency in the use of computers. All students must have at least one year experience as a member of a navigational watch on the bridge of oceangoing vessels or service as a licensed Radio Officer or Engineer. Cadets or candidates for U.S. Coast Guard licenses must be members of a formal training program such as at a state or Federal Maritime Academy or have acquired equivalent experience and basic communications training as a prerequisite for this course. The course shall be taught in English. If a student speaks the course language as a second language, he or she shall demonstrate total fluency, both written and oral, of GMDSS technical terms in the language used in teaching the course. Candidates desiring the license must submit their completed application package to the appropriate U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Center for evaluation as prescribed by applicable regulations and policies. Candidates need not be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard prior to participating in this course. However, a photo ID is required. Pursuant to National Maritime Center Policy Letter 11-02 appropriate photo identification is required for enrollment into a USCG-approved course.