Pre-Sea Training Course for Engine Rating

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Course Overview

The Pre-Sea Training for Engine Rating Programme at McLarens Maritime Academy (MMA) is the first step for individuals aspiring to start their careers at sea in a ship’s engine department. This programme provides trainees with the essential knowledge, hands-on technical skills, and discipline required to serve as engine ratings on merchant vessels, supporting engine room operations, machinery maintenance, watchkeeping, and general engineering duties.

 

Students undergo a structured blend of classroom-based instruction, practical workshops, and mandatory safety training, ensuring they are fully prepared to join vessels as part of the engineering crew. Conducted in line with STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers Convention) requirements, this course qualifies graduates to work as engine ratings on merchant ships worldwide.

Course Structure:

The programme is conducted in three phases:

Phase 01 – Main Programme (4 months)

Phase 02 – Mandatory STCW basic short courses (1 month)

Phase 03 – Onboard training on our own fleet of vessels (3 months) and obtaining the Watchkeeping Certificate from the Merchant Shipping Secretariat

Minimum Entry Qualifications

  • Age between 18–24 years
  • Minimum of 6 “S” O/Level passes including Mathematics, Science, and English

Course Structure:

The programme is conducted in three phases:

Phase 01 – Main Programme (4 months)

Phase 02 – Mandatory STCW basic short courses (1 month)

Phase 03 – Onboard training on our own fleet of vessels (3 months) and obtaining the Watchkeeping Certificate from the Merchant Shipping Secretariat

Minimum Entry Qualifications

  • Age between 18–24 years
  • Minimum of 6 “S” O/Level passes including Mathematics, Science, and English

Career Pathway: From Engine Rating to Chief Engineer

Benefits of the Course

  • Start your career at sea with internationally recognised STCW certification.
  •  Gain the technical skills and discipline required to work as an engine rating on merchant vessels worldwide
  • Receive practical training in engine room operations, machinery maintenance, watchkeeping, and shipboard safety.
  • Build a strong foundation that opens the pathway to higher maritime qualifications and officer-level engineering training.

Why Choose MMA for This Program?

  • The only maritime training institute in Sri Lanka with direct access to its own fleet of vessels, offering real onboard engine room training.
  • Learn under the guidance of Chief Engineers and experienced marine engineers with decades of industry expertise.
  • Guaranteed first paid job opportunity and clear career pathway to obtain Watchkeeping Certificate by MSS