Since 2000, Skilltrade has been a trusted provider of Hydrographic Survey training. In 2008 the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC) recognized our program as an official Hydrographic Survey Category ‘B’ Programme—a prestigious industry standard we have proudly maintained ever since.

To date, we have successfully trained over 290 hydrographic surveyors from diverse backgrounds and countries worldwide. Our course has been enthusiastically welcomed and endorsed by a range of international authorities and market leaders operating in the marine, oil and gas industry, coastal and port management.
At Skilltrade, we are committed to preparing the next generation of hydrographic surveyors with the expertise needed to excel in this exciting field. Why Choose Skilltrade?

Couse overview

Start Date: 24 November 2025

Application Deadline: 27 October 2025

Duration: 28 weeks

• 11 weeks of online instructor-led lessons
• 11 weeks of self-paced e-learning and theoretical exams
• 6-week practical project in IJmuiden, the Netherlands

Subjects

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

Target group

Candidates working or applying for a job in the field of hydrographic surveying in the marine, oil and gas industry, coastal and port environment, hydrographic services and offshore construction. The course offers practical knowledge and understanding of hydrographic surveying and equips participants with the necessary skills to perform various operational tasks.

Entry Requirements

To enroll in the Category B Hydrographic Surveying Course, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• EQF Level 4 qualification and at least 6 months of offshore experience in a related industry, such as: offshore construction, marine, military, scientific, or engineering environments

OR

• EQF Level 5 qualification or higher (no prior industry experience required)

Additional Requirements

English Proficiency: IELTS Level 6 or equivalent

IT Skills: Basic competence in general IT hardware and software

Certificate

This Hydrographic Survey Category B Course complies with Publication S-5B of the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC), Category B and is fully recognized as such since 2008. After successful completion of the course, the student is awarded the FIG/IHO/ICA Certificate of Programme Completion.

Join our Category B Hydrographic Surveying Course and take your career to the next level! Apply by 27 October 2025 to secure your spot. 

Thinking of studying with us? Complete the form to download your Category B course information.

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