Searched for recent info on the state of Chief Mate/Master classes and don’t see much in the past few years. So, to those in the know, what are the present recommendations for checking off the NVIC 10-14 requirements for upgrading to a Chief Mate Unlimited license?
I’d love to take classes online where possible, but the only one I’m aware of is NEMO’s leadership course - and I don’t know if I want to support their USVI registry shenanigans.
I’m interested in the Manned Models course at Mass Maritime, but they don’t have any sessions currently listed - are those only held in the summer and not scheduled far in advance?
I took Meteorology and Stability at MITAGS; the meteorology course was superb, with guest speakers from the NHS, OPC, SPC and NOAA Corp. Stability was fine, just felt like a refresher from basic Stability at the academy (don’t worry guys, I’m ready to do up a cargo plan for your 9000DWT yard-and-stay ship next time we need to storm Normandy or something). I liked MITAGS, but not being a trust fund baby it was expensive. The GI Bill helped, but the hotel cost alone to stay on campus was still significant, and I don’t have much GI Bill left.
So, what have people seen or taken recently that they’d recommend? I’m more interested in quality than price if I have to choose, but I’m up for any suggestions.
I did my upgrade classes through AMO at the star center, in addition to onboard NVIC sign offs. In my unprofessional opinion, the upgrade classes are mostly a certificate, I didnt obtain much test prep/knowledge from them.
The 2 week study period before testing, grilling lapware and USCG practice tests was my turning point.
Assuming youre not a union member, star center is probably one of your most costly options, but MPT is just up the road and offers the same, as well as a prep course. Cant speak on its quality though.
Took 4 at MPT and 1 (manned models) @ Mass. Manned model is great and I highly recommend it, and yes only during warmer months. They just shut down for the winter.
MPT was high quality as well. I feel the only one that would have helped me with testing was advanced stab. I tested first then took all the classes. No prep class. Self study for 2 months.
The only class that really holds much value is advanced shiphandling. The rest is prep for the antiquated exams. Find the most convenient and economical classes but shop around for advanced shiphandling. I personally took mine at MPT and it was a good learning experience. I also took classes at San Jac and the school in Norfolk. As for LMS, dont waste your time and just do that one online. If I were you I wouldn’t even bother with an exam prep class, self study with lapware and sea trials will get you to the end zone.