There is a great need for more qualified ships' officers to meet the skills required by international shipping companies.

Industry predictions suggest that this requirement will increase in the next few years, especially if the world economy (and population) continues to expand, and thus the quantity of goods moved by sea continues to increase.

Many senior personnel are shortly due to retire so there are excellent prospects for fast advancement by new entrants to the maritime profession.

Career opportunities extend to thousands of shore-based management jobs, which require people with seagoing experience. A career at sea may not mean a lifetime at sea.