The first sea phase is scheduled over a two-month period between the end of the first technical session and the beginning of the following fall semester. Following the second Technical Session, the student commences the second sea phase. This is a 15 month period wherein the student must accumulate the remaining time required to make up the full 12 months at sea. This programme prepares graduates for a successful sea-going career as a ships officer. Transport Canada recognizes the professional competence of Marine Institute graduates through the provision of exemptions for specific certification examinations.
Graduates also have the option of pursuing further education.
Transport Canada recognizes the benefits of education and training in marine transportation. The reality is that these benefits translate into a remission of sea service from Transport Canada for the time spent in school at the Marine Institute. In this case it is a full 12 months. However, Marine Institute graduates are required to accumulate only 12 months for the same certificate. Transport Canada grants exam exemptions at various other certificate levels.