Security Awareness Training For All Seafarers (PSA/VPWOSR)
- Online Course -
Also Know as:
- Vessel Personnel Without Security Responsibilities (VPWOSR) / Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA)
This course is the minimum mandatory security training required for all crew members who are currently working — or planning to work — on cruise ships and mega yachts.
It is specifically designed to provide essential knowledge for personnel without designated security duties under the Ship Security Plan (SSP). The training equips crew with the understanding needed to support onboard security efforts in accordance with:
Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 1974, as amended
The ISPS Code
Section A-VI/6-1 of the STCW Code, as amended
By completing this course, crew members will be better prepared to recognize security threats, contribute to a secure shipboard environment, and comply with international maritime security standards.
| Feature | Virtual Maritime Academy | Other Institutions |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Mode | ✅ 100% Online, Self-Paced | ❌ Fixed Schedule, In-Person |
| Certification | ✅ DNV-Certified | ❌ Often not globally recognized |
| Access Period | ✅ 12 Months Access | ❌ Limited or fixed access |
| Support | ✅ 24/7 Learner Support | ❌ Office hours only |
| Cost Savings | ✅ No Travel • No Hotel • No Time Off Work | ❌ Extra costs for travel, hotel, meals, and downtime |
| Total Investment | ✅ Single transparent fee | ❌ Higher overall cost |
Course Information
Difficulty: Beginner
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This course is for:
Crew members without designated security duties on board ship and requirements set in the STCW, and SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
Qualification:
Regulation VI/6, paragraph 1 and Section A-VI/6, paragraph 4 of the STCW Convention and Code 1978, as amended.
Prerequisite:
No Pre-Requisites.
Regulations, Code, Convention Addressed:
The International Ship & Port Security (ISPS) Code, STCW Table A-VI/6-1.
Learning Objectives:
- The meaning and the consequential requirements of the different security levels;
- Knowledge of emergency procedures and contingency plans;
- Recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances, and devices;
- Recognition, on a non-discriminatory basis, of characteristics and behavioral patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security; and
- Techniques used to circumvent security measures.
Why Enroll in This Course?
Earn internationally recognized credentials, strengthen your understanding of ISPS Code security responsibilities, and advance your maritime career with practical, standards-aligned training for all seafarers.
Globally Recognized Certification
Receive a DNV-Certified Accredited credential, aligned with IMO standards.
100% Online & Self-Paced
Learn anytime, anywhere with 6 months access to all materials.
Industry-Leading Expertise
Benefit from training designed by seasoned maritime compliance professionals.
24/7 Learner Support
Get help whenever you need it from our maritime training team.
Course Structure:
The PSA course consists of:
- 5 chapters.
- Confirmation questions after each chapter
- Course Manual, and
- A Final Course Assessment
Assessment:
There are multi-choice questions to complete at the end of each chapter and a final assessment. The passing mark is 70%. The Final Assessment is fully online and no need to attend any classroom. A Proctor will be assigned to you to monitor you during your Final Assessment. You will need a computer(not a tablet or Chromebook) with a webcam and an ok internet speed for your Final Assessment. If for any reason you do not pass with a mark of at least 70% of your Final Assessment there is a fee a 75$ + applicable taxes to re-attempt the Final Assessment.
Final Assessment Equipment Requirements
- Device: A desktop computer or laptop is necessary with a Webcam and microphone. The Final Assessment is not compatible with tablets, cell phones, or Chromebooks.
- Operating System: Windows 10 or later, Mac OS X 11 or later
- Web Browser: Google Chrome v39 or later or Mozilla Firefox v34 or later
- Internet Connection: 3 Mbps or better for upload and download speed
- Hardware: 8GB or more of RAM, Microphone and speakers, Webcam
Length:
Approximately 5.75 hours.
You can enter and exit this course as often as you require.
Delivery:
The course is 100% online, and on-demand, and no requirement to attend a test in a classroom.
Student Verification Requirements:
As required by Transport Canada and DNV, students must complete a simple online verification form accessible from within the course. This includes submitting a scanned copy of an official government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license.
Training Certification:
This online PSA/VPWOSR Course is approved by both DNV as a Certified Learning Program, and is internationally recognized. It includes the Manila Amendments and incorporates the PSA/VPWSOR course lay down in Regulation VI/5, paragraph 1 and Section A-VI/5, paragraphs 1 to 4 of the STCW Convention and Code 1978, as amended, as laid down in Regulation VI/6 and Section A-VI/6 of the STCW Convention and Code.
Certificate:
A hardcopy will be posted to your address free of charge.
Course Subjects:
A course meeting all the requirements.
- Maritime Security Policy
- Maritime Security Definitions
- Techniques used to circumvent security measures
- Security levels
- Security Responsibilities
- The IMO, ISPS, STCW, and SOLAS Explanation
- Security-Related Information, SSRI
- What is a Ship Security Officer
- How to report Security Related incidents
- Threat Identification, Recognition & Response
- Ship Security Actions
- Emergency Preparedness, Drills & Exercises.
- Download the Official Course Syllabus HERE
Revision : 10, 2025
F.A.Q.
You get 6 months of unlimited access to all course materials, quizzes, and resources.
No formal prerequisites required. This course is designed for all seafarers, including cruise ship crew, yacht crew, and personnel serving on all other types of vessels.
Yes. The course is 100% online and self-paced, allowing you to fit learning into your schedule.
Upon completion, you will receive a DNV-Certified certificate, internationally accepted by all cruise lines, yacht management companies, classification societies, and maritime administrations worldwide — including the Bahamas, Panama, Bermuda, the United Kingdom, and the Cayman Islands.
Yes. As long as you have an internet connection, you can complete this training from anywhere in the world.
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Course Progress
Lessons
