Martin M.Mutevu

Welcome to Maritime Studies this is your gateway to a rewarding seafaring career!

The Department takes pride in offering world-class maritime training programs designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to excel in the dynamic maritime industry.

The Maritime Studies Department is the foundation of all seafaring courses at Kenya Coast National Polytechnic, delivering International Maritime Organization (IMO)-compliant programs accredited by the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA). Additionally, we are home to the Regional Centre of Excellence in Marine Transport and Port Logistics, a prestigious initiative supported by the Government of Kenya and the World Bank.

With modern workshops, advanced equipment, and a cutting-edge simulation laboratory, we ensure our trainees receive industry-relevant skills that meet international standards. Our highly qualified instructors undergo continuous professional development through global partnerships, enhancing their pedagogical skills to deliver world-class maritime education.

The Maritime Studies Department, currently training over 250 aspiring maritime professionals, serves as the premier hub for seafaring education in Kenya.

In an exciting development, Kenya Coast National Polytechnic is establishing a new Regional Maritime Campus in Waa, Kwale County. This state-of-the-art facility will revolutionize maritime training and education in Kenya, offering expanded programs, enhanced simulation technologies, and increased industry collaboration to produce globally competitive maritime professionals. The expected completion date is May 2025 and the current completion rate is at 88%. The scope of the project is Construction of Maritime Centre, Catering Centre, Diving pool, swimming pool, Engineering Service rooms, Changing rooms, wastewater treatment plant, a Gate and a Guardhouse.

Courses at the Department

Our programmes are designed in collaboration with industry partners, ensuring graduates meet global maritime standards. With flexible admission cycles and Dual-TVET training options, we provide practical learning experiences that enhance employability.

SNO COURSE COURSE DESCRIPTION ENTRY REQUIRMENTS DURATION AND STRUCTURE CERTIFICATION OR CAREER PROSPECTS
1. Craft Certificate in Marine Engineering Designed for KCSE graduates to develop engine room operations and maintenance skills. KCSE Mean Grade D (Plain) and above Two (2) modules, one per academic year (3 terms each) Career Prospects:
• Marine Engineer Assistant
• Engine Room Rating
• Ship Maintenance Technician
2. Marine Welding & Fabrication (Level 5 – Dual-TVET Training) Focuses on welding, fabrication, and dry-dock repair through 50% institutional and 50% industry training. KCSE Mean Grade D (Plain) and above One academic year split into 3 blocks:
• Block 1: Institutional training & assessment
• Block 2: Industry training & assessment
• Block 3: Final institutional training & certification		 Career Prospects:
• Marine Welder
• Ship Fabrication Technician
• Dry-Dock Repair Specialist
3. Marine Welding (Level 4 – Dual-TVET Training) Shorter programme focused on welding and marine repairs, aimed at rapid job placement. KCSE Mean Grade D- (Minus) and above Two blocks (3 months each):
• Block 1: Institutional training & assessment
• Block 2: Industry training & assessment
Admission Cycles: Jan, May, Sept		 Career Prospects:
• Marine Welding Technician
• Ship Repair Assistant
4. Marine Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Technician (Level 4) Training in installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning systems on vessels. KCSE Mean Grade D- (Minus) and above or equivalent Two terms (6 months total)
Admission Cycles: Jan, May, Sept

Career Prospects:
• Marine HVAC Technician
• Refrigeration Systems Installer
5. Marine Painting (Level 4) Teaches marine coating, corrosion prevention, and surface prep skills for ship maintenance. KCSE Mean Grade D- (Minus) and above. Candidates with experience but no certification can apply via RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning). Two terms (6 months total)
Admission Cycles: Jan, May, Sept		 Career Prospects:
• Marine Painter & Coating Specialist
• Ship Maintenance Technician
6. STCW Basic Safety Training (Mandatory for Seafarers) Mandatory safety training approved by KMA. Covers essential safety protocols for all seafarers. Physical fitness certificate from a KMA-approved medical facility 7 consecutive days
Includes 5 modules:
1. Personal Survival Techniques (A-VI/1-1)
2. Fire Prevention & Firefighting (A-VI/1-2)
3. Elementary First Aid (A-VI/1-3)
4. Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (A-VI/1-4)
5. Marine Security Awareness (A-VI/6-1)		 Certification:
Globally recognized STCW Certificate