This guide outlines the two main routes to becoming a Chief Engineer Officer (CEO): the Academic Route (ND, HND, BSc in Marine Engineering) and the Alternative Route (Non-Marine Engineering related NCV). Both paths lead to certification as a Chief Engineer Officer but differ in their initial requirements and approach.

This guide is for personnel who have been recruited, for information regarding NIMASA recruitment, check here.

Academic Route (ND, HND, BSc in Marine Engineering)

Initial Phase – Cadet to Engineer Officer of the Watch (EOW)

1. Academic Requirements:
   • Complete ND, HND, or BSc in Marine Engineering
   • Provides a comprehensive theoretical foundation in marine engineering systems
   • Focus on ship propulsion, auxiliary machinery, and maintenance
2. Sea Service Requirements:
   • Duration: 12-18 months as a cadet
   • Must maintain Training Record Book (TRB)
   • Hands-on training with the ship’s machinery and systems
3. Certification Process:
   • Obtain Notice of Eligibility (NoE)
   • Complete 6 months of preparatory class
   • Pass NIMASA oral and written examinations
   • Obtain a medical fitness certificate
   • Receive EOW Certificate (STCW Reg. III/1)

Progression to Second Engineer Officer

1. Sea Service Requirements:
   • Minimum 12-18 months as Engineer OOW
   • Document all engineering watchkeeping experience
2. Certification Process:
   • Obtain new NoE
   • Complete 6 months preparatory class
   • Pass NIMASA oral and written examinations
   • Obtain a medical fitness certificate
   • Receive Second Engineer Certificate (STCW Reg. III/2 and III/3)

Final Stage – Chief Engineer Officer

1. Sea Service Requirements:
   • Minimum 12-18 months as Second Engineer
   • Document senior engineering experience
2. Certification Process:
   • Obtain NoE
   • Complete 6 months preparatory class
   • Pass NIMASA oral and written examinations
   • Obtain a medical fitness certificate
   • Receive Chief Engineer Certificate (STCW Reg. III/2 and III/3)

Alternative Route (Non-Marine Engineering NCV)

Initial Phase – Entry to EOW

1. Sea Service Requirements:
   • Minimum 36 months total sea service before NoE
   • Initial 12 months required before Associate CourseComplete a 9-month Approved Associate Course Certificate
   • Maintain Training Record Book (TRB)
2. Additional Requirements:
   • Complete Workshop Skills training
   • Complete Ancillary Courses
   • Focus on practical engineering skills
3. Certification Process:
   • 6 months preparatory class after NoE
   • NIMASA examinationsMedical fitness certificate
   • EOW Certificate (STCW Reg. III/1)

Progression to Second Engineer and Chief Engineer

• Follows an identical path to the Academic Route:
  • Same sea service requirements
  • Same examination process
  • Same certification standards

Comparison of Routes

Academic Route Advantages

1. Strong theoretical foundation through formal education
2. Shorter initial sea service requirement (12-18 months vs 36 months)
3. Academic qualifications alongside professional certifications
4. A deeper understanding of engineering principles from the start