Description
This Course Includes
✓ CPD eCertificate — Ship Security Officer
✓ Expert Digital Badge
✓ Tutors Gateway Support
✓ High Quality Learning Materials
✓ IMT Alumni Portal Access
✓ ISPS Code Reference Guide
Why this course matters
Built for professionals. Essential for vessels.
Your vessel depends on your expertise.
Every voyage, every port call, every crew interaction operates within a complex security framework. SSOs who truly understand the ISPS Code are far better protected — and far more employable.
→ Understand your legal security duties at sea and in port
→ Develop and implement ship security plans with confidence
→ Respond to security incidents and emergencies effectively
→ Advance into senior maritime security roles
→ Add internationally recognised STCW credentials to your profile
One security breach without a qualified SSO costs a fortune.
Unqualified Ship Security Officers expose vessels to port detentions, PSC deficiencies, and serious liability. Training your SSOs is not a cost — it’s compliance.
→ Reduce port state control deficiencies and vessel detentions
→ Ensure full ISPS Code compliance across your fleet
→ Demonstrate due diligence to flag states and P&I clubs
→ Group enrolment available — contact us for company pricing
→ STCW certification demonstrable to clients and auditors
About this course
STCW002 — Ship Security Officer (SSO)
The Ship Security Officer (SSO) is the person onboard a ship, accountable to the master, designated by the company as responsible for the security of the ship, for implementing the Ship Security Plan, and for liaising with the Company Security Officer and port facility security officers.
This program equips maritime professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to develop, implement, and maintain ship security plans in full compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and STCW requirements.
Learning Objectives
What you will achieve
Participants will gain solid foundations of maritime security, ISPS Code application, and practical ship security management.
✓ Understand the structure and requirements of the ISPS Code and STCW Chapter XI-2
✓ Conduct ship security assessments and identify vulnerabilities
✓ Develop, implement, and maintain Ship Security Plans (SSP)
✓ Conduct regular security inspections of the vessel
✓ Ensure security equipment is properly operated, tested, and calibrated
✓ Respond to security threats, breaches, and emergency situations
Curriculum
3 modules. 52 hours. Complete ISPS compliance.
Module 01 · Core Subject
Maritime Security Foundations
An introduction to the international maritime security framework — the ISPS Code, SOLAS Chapter XI-2, and the roles of flag states, port states, and shipping companies.
ISPS CodeSOLAS XI-2Security LevelsFlag State Requirements
Module 02 · Core Subject
Ship Security Planning
The core competencies of the SSO — developing and implementing the Ship Security Plan, conducting risk assessments, and managing security documentation.
Ship Security PlanRisk AssessmentSecurity RecordsDrills & Exercises
Module 03 · Speciality Subject
Incident Response & Operations
Practical security operations onboard — access control, handling security threats, responding to incidents, and coordinating with port facility and company security officers.
Access ControlIncident ResponseCSO LiaisonPFSO Coordination
Who should attend
If you serve onboard a vessel — this is for you.
Deck Officers & Masters
Fulfil your STCW security obligations and lead vessel security operations with confidence.
Ratings & Crew Members
Understand your role in the ship’s security plan and respond correctly to security situations.
Maritime Students
Build STCW security credentials before entering the workforce.
Company Security Officers
Deepen your understanding of onboard security operations to support your SSOs effectively.
Port State Control Inspectors
Understand what a compliant SSO should know and document.
New Entrants to Shipping
Build the security foundation that separates professionals from beginners from day one of your maritime career.
Entry Requirements
No prerequisites required
There are no formal prerequisites for this program. It is designed for both new entrants to the maritime industry and experienced seafarers seeking to formalise or deepen their security knowledge.
Duration
Approximately 8-10 hours of learning per week, totalling 52 hours over a 6-week period.
Access Period
Course remains open for 6 months from upload date. Extensions available upon request.
Teaching Method
Independent online study with detailed materials, guidance notes, and practical exercises. Assessment via final test.
Mode of Attendance
100% Online — delivered via IMT web platform. No travel required.
Your vessel’s security starts with you.
Join maritime professionals worldwide who hold this certification.
Start immediately — study at your pace — get STCW certified.
Immediate access · STCW Certified · 3 modules · 52 hours · 6 months access
