<font color="#000000]As a non-college graduate, I’ve toyed around with the idea of completing my studies via distance learning. I know there are several institutions who specialize in our unique circumstances, but does anyone have exposure to this? I would prefer a BEng degree to coincide with my engineering profession. Fairplay recently had a card in their magazine through Lloyd’s Maritime Academy (UK) and the literature mentioned credit qualifications/transfers to several institutions, of which Open University (UK) was listed for undergraduate programs. While I do not plan on transferring shore-side, updating the résumé never hurt. Naturally most employers are concerned with the license first-and-foremost, but it is a fact of life that college education is beneficial. I am not seeking reimbursement from any employer for this, so that card is out of the hat.
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<font color="#000000]No luck with the job search either. Apparently work through MEBA is impossible for a Group 3 at the moment. Or so one of their halls told me. It appears the OSV companies want OSV-experienced engineers. Same thing with the Offshore/Drillships. I’ve run across this with the tanker industry and their preference towards those with a PIC endorsement. The wonderful Catch 22 of the industry - experience/certification required, though only attainable through experience.</font>
<font color="#000000]Thanks for any input you can offer.</font>