Duration
19 weeks
Frequency
2-3 courses per year
Location
HMS Drake
IELTS
6.5
Aim
To train officers and senior rates (OF3 & OR) to carry out the meteorological and oceanographic duties of Hydrographic and Meteorological staff. The training includes seagoing rotary and fixed wing aviation forecasting, and tactical exploration of atmosphere and oceanographic information.
Course details
Outline Syllabus
The course runs over 20 weeks and will cover the following areas:
- A study of advanced mathematics used in surveying including least squares, error theory, matrices, calculus and spherical trigonometry.
- Theory of establishing horizontal positional control including theory on geodesy, projections and grids.
- Theory of establishing vertical positional control including theory on vertical datums, tidal forces and tidal streams.
- Theory and practical use of a range of survey equipment including theodolites, electro-optical distance measuring systems and Global Navigation Satellite Systems.
- Theory and practical use of single and multi-beam echo sounders and towed sonar systems.
- Theory and practical analysis of positional and bathymetric data.
- Practical introduction to Geospatial Information Systems – delivered by Defence School of Geospatial Intelligence.
- An introduction to International Law of the Sea.
- Theory of alternate methods of data collection and an introduction to specialist hydrographic surveys.
- Theory and practical planning and running of hydrographic surveys.
Requirements
- HM (METOC) course is an intense and rewarding in depth meteorological and oceanographic forecasting course. The entry requirement is set at graduates who hold a BSc in a science subject (or exceptionally another topic)
- The array of complex terminology used demands a significant competence at both written and spoken English
Exams and Qualifications Gained
- The assessment comprises; two meteorological exams, an assessed climate brief, plus continuous assessment during meteorological watch keeping
- Successful completion of the assessment may award Plymouth University module credits towards BSc or PG Cert qualifications and Royal Meteorological Society accredited course route to become a Chartered Meteorologist and also register for Institute of Marine Engineers, Scientists and Technicians (IMarEst) accredited course qualification