At Skilltrade, we are committed to preparing the next generation of hydrographic surveyors with the expertise needed to excel in this exciting field. Are you ready to take your your hydrography skills to the next level? Sign up for our Category B Training Programme.
Over the course of 7,5 months, students develop their skills through a combination of online, instructor-led sessions, e-learning modules, and theoretical exams.
They then apply their knowledge during a 6-week practical project in IJmuiden, the Netherlands.
This self-paced phase refreshes students’ fundamental knowledge of mathematics and physics through e-learning. Skilltrade offers support upon request to help participants where needed. A final assessment ensures readiness for the formal programme.
The first stage of the formal programme combines live online lectures with alternating e-learning periods, spanning approximately 7.5 months.
This hybrid model allows for deep engagement without the need for full-time physical attendance.
All exams are remotely proctored by Skilltrade.
Upon successful completion, students receive a Certificate of Education, qualifying them for progression to the practical phases of the programme (Stages 2 and 3).
This certificate is equivalent to a non-IHO-recognised surveying degree and is accepted as part of the IFHS Level 2 professional accreditation path, provided it is combined with at least three years of relevant field experience.
This two-week stage focuses on hands-on learning through workshops, field training, and guest lectures in IJmuiden, the Netherlands.
Students receive safety instruction and participate in field trips to hydrographic companies and vessels, gaining insight into real-world project execution and exposure to current technologies.
In workshops, students tackle practical challenges under expert guidance.
They apply their knowledge in tasks such as system setup, calibration, fault finding, and survey execution, preparing them for the Comprehensive Final Field Project (Stage 3) and professional practice.
Directly after Stage 2, students begin the four-week final stage, participating in a supervised, end-to-end hydrographic survey project in IJmuiden, the Netherlands.
Within this controlled environment, students are responsible for planning, executing, and reporting on all phases of the survey.
Performance is assessed on technical accuracy, teamwork, and professional conduct.
Successful completion of the Comprehensive Final Field Project (CFFP) in stage 3 awards the student the FIG/IHO/ICA Certificate of Programme Completion, recognising them as qualified hydrographic surveyors ready for international practice.
This course is intended for students and professionals working in, or aspiring to work in, the field of hydrographic surveying — including the marine, oil and gas, coastal, port, hydrographic services, and offshore construction sectors. It provides practical knowledge and skills needed to perform operational hydrographic tasks with confidence.
B1 Mathematics | B2 Physics | B3 Nautical Science and Meteorology | E1 Bathymetry | E2 Water Levels, Flow and Waves | E3 Positioning | E4 Hydrographic Practice | E5 Hydrographic Data Management | E6 Earth science and the Environment
To enroll in the Category B Hydrographic Surveying Course, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
You can find everything you need to know about our Category B Training Programme in our brochure. You can download it by filling out your name and email address.
Would you like to learn more about our training opportunities, or do you have questions about how we can support you?
Please click the button on the right and complete the contact form, or email us at office@skilltrade.nl and we will get back to you as soon as possible.