Skilltrade has been a provider of Hydrographic Survey training since its inception in 2000. Our Category B course in Hydrographic Surveying, launched in collaboration with STC Rotterdam in 2007. A year later the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC) recognized our Hydrographic Survey training as a "Hydrographic Survey Category ‘B’ Programme". Since then, our program has met this gold standard in the industry.

Since its inception, Skilltrade has proudly trained more than 290 people from different backgrounds and countries around the world as hydrographic surveyors at Category B level.

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.

In response to the evolving needs of the industry and to ensure compliance with IBSC standards, our program undergoes continuous refinement to meet the demands of a dynamic sector. At Skilltrade, we are dedicated to shaping the next generation of skilled hydrographic surveyors, empowering them to excel in this vital field.

Contents

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

Structure of the programme

The course starts once a year. The registration deadline for the next Skilltrade Hydrographic Survey Category B Course is 27 October 2025. The course starts in November with 11 weeks online instructor-led lessons alternated with 11 weeks of e-learning and theoretical exams and ends with a 6-week practical period at IJmuiden, the Netherlands.

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 level and Preliminary training

The level of the training course is undergraduate (HND/HNC/MBO level 4 Dutch rule). All course material and lectures will be in English. Participants should therefore have a good understanding of the English language, including knowledge of the appropriate technical and maritime terms.

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.

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

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