IBSC Category B program

S-5B Hydrographic Surveying

Hydrography & marine survey operations — your first step on the path to becoming a Certified Hydrographer.

15 wks online theory7 wks onsite12 Modules
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Surveyors performing system checks on a survey vessel

About the program

Built for the real world

Hydrographic surveying plays a critical role in safe navigation, coastal development, marine environmental management, and national infrastructure. The S-5B program offered by IIC Academy provides the competencies required to support these activities in a modern survey environment.

Recognised by the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence (IBSC), this program provides a structured learning pathway combining online theoretical instruction, guided practical exercises, onsite field training using professional survey equipment, and a Comprehensive Final Field Project.

Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion of a Recognised Program.

15
Weeks

Online theory across a 31-week access window

7
Weeks onsite

3 weeks practical + 4 weeks final field project

12
Modules

Covering the full S-5B competency framework

1st
Certification step

Your path to becoming a Certified Hydrographer

IBSC

Recognised by the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence.

Program delivery

How the program is delivered

Theory is delivered online by default, with select cohorts able to access on-site delivery through partner institutions depending on region — the program is flexible to both formats.

Online or on-site theory
Phase 1 · 15 weeks / 31-week access

Online or on-site theory

  • Live webinars introducing each module
  • Recorded lectures, readings, and guided exercises
  • Quizzes and exams marked by instructors with feedback
  • Progress dashboards and instructor messaging
  • Access via Blackboard Learn LMS on any device
Practical training
Phase 2 · 3 weeks onsite

Practical training

  • Set up GNSS and land survey control
  • Install and verify a tide gauge
  • Mobilise a survey vessel and calibrate sensors
  • Acquire multibeam, single-beam, and side-scan sonar data
  • Collect sound speed profiles and sediment samples
  • Initial processing and quality checks
Final field project
Phase 3 · 4 weeks onsite

Comprehensive Final Field Project

  • Plan the survey — area, lines, coverage, standards
  • Mobilise the vessel and equipment
  • Acquire all required data
  • Process and clean the datasets
  • Create bathymetric surfaces and supporting products
  • Prepare and present a final report with charting recommendations

Prerequisites

Who the program is for

This program is designed for

  • Individuals beginning the hydrographic certification process
  • New graduates seeking a technical route into hydrographic surveying
  • Employees sponsored by hydrographic offices, ports, or survey companies
  • Early-career professionals working in survey, GIS, or marine science

Entry requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • At least two years of additional education in GIS, geography, physics, maths, computer science, IT, or a related technical discipline
  • English language proficiency sufficient to follow technical training (e.g. TOEFL or equivalent)
  • Physical capability to perform duties on board a vessel as part of the crew

Program schedule

A typical program year

Programs combine online theory with on-site practical training, and in select regions may be delivered fully on-site. Dates are tentative and may vary slightly depending on intake and region.

1
August

Students gain access to the Self-Guided Introductory Module. Explore the LMS, review foundational material, and prepare for instructor-led content.

2
September — March

Formal online theory begins. Students attend live webinars, complete structured modules, and participate in guided exercises and assessments.

3
March

All theoretical modules, assessments, and exams are finalised. Students confirm eligibility to progress to the onsite practical phase.

4
April — June

Onsite practical block (3 weeks) followed immediately by the Comprehensive Final Field Project (4 weeks). Timing varies by region — e.g. New Zealand, Canada, Sweden.

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