The objective of hydrography is to collect and record information about the physical features of water bodies (oceans, seas, lakes, …). Hydrographers measure the water depth and search for all types of submerged ridges, banks, wrecks, … rising from the bed of those water bodies . They also gather information on the water levels, tides and currents and use this information in models. Hydrographers also gather information regarding other physical parameters of water bodies (such as the temperature, salinity, …).
The main output of hydrographers’ work are nautical charts, tidal predictions and volume calculations (e.g. for dredging purposes). These data collected on the world’s oceans, seas and rivers have many applications that are indispensable to the merchant marine, offshore activities, dredging, environmental and underwater projects. This specialized work is carried out by a hydrographic surveyor. He will not only be involved during the preparatory activities but also during the data processing and the follow- up actions.
Hydrography in Belgium
The Hydrography B programme is the first of its kind in Belgium. The Institute for Hydrography (IVH), created within the Antwerp Maritime Academy facilitates its organisation. The collaboration between the Antwerp Maritime Academy and Ghent University results in a unique concentration of combined knowledge and experience. The emphasis of the Hydrography B programme lies on a solid theoretical framework, complemented by practical and hands-on experience.
The emphasis of the Hydrography B programme lies on a solid theoretical framework, complemented by practical and hands-on experience. For the integrated fieldwork and fieldwork-related aspects, the IVH relies on its partners from governmental organisations and the industry: the Agency of Maritime and Coastal Services (MDK), Flanders Hydraulics Research, DEME, Eurosense, GEO.xyz, G-tec, and Jan De Nul.
The Hydrography B programme has been accredited by the IBSC on behalf of its parent organizations (FIG/IHO/ICA) in 2013.
After successful completion of the Hydrography B postgraduate course, students will get a Basic Hydrographic Surveyor certificate from the HZS.
The postgraduate course Hydrography B has a duration of minimum one year, depending on previous qualifications and/or work experience. This year equals a total of 60 ECTS. During this year, theoretical modules alternate with fieldwork periods.
The academic year is divided into two semesters. Throughout the year, students will participate in classes during four theoretical modules. These are alternated with periods of fieldwork in a hydrographic company or institute of choice, to obtain specialized skills in a real work environment. At the end of each semester there are examinations of the finished theory courses. Around May, a compulsory integrated fieldwork period allows the students to participate in workshops, seminars and company visits.
The fieldwork is evaluated by means of a Training Record Book and permanent evaluation. This facilitates monitoring the progress of the candidates and offering assistance when necessary. The evaluation of the fieldwork takes place in September and January of each academic year.
The theoretical courses are held at the Antwerp Maritime Academy and at Ghent University. The integrated fieldwork period takes place in various locations.
The programme as presented here is a full-time programme. A part-time programme can be obtained by taking up some of these classes:
| Theory Classes | ECTS | Location |
| ICT | 3 | UGent |
| Navigation | 6 | HZS |
| Safety | 3 | HZS |
| Seamanship | 3 | HZS |
| Tides and Currents | 3 | HZS |
| Geodesy and Cartography | 3 | UGent |
| Hydrographic Surveying | 6 | UGent |
| Data Management | 3 | UGent |
| Geology and Geophysics | 3 | UGent |
| Legal Aspects | 3 | HZS |
| Integrated Fieldwork (compulsory) | 5 | On location |
| Fieldwork (Practice) | 24 | On location |
Proceso de aplicación
Before you apply. Make sure you meet the entry requirements: check the full list under 'Brochures and documents'.
Required documents include:
- Qualifications: Bachelor degree, academic transcript and possible certificates. Evidence of knowledge Mathematics and Physics
- Evidence of English language ability, if English is not your first language
When to apply.
Applications can be made between 1 February and 31 July. Non-EU applicants however should complete the procedure before 30 June. Contact the hydrography administration for more information.
Apply - step 1: register online
On this page, you can find the online registration form. With this basic information we can start to create your personal file. You will receive confirmation of your registration via email, and documents to complete your application:
- an application portfolio
- a document to request exemptions.
Apply - step 2: application portfolio and documents
Complete your personal curriculum on this application portfolio. As candidates need to meet the entry requirements, you need to provide a copy of some documents. Send these per mail or e-mail to the Antwerp Maritime Academy.
Apply - step 3 (optional): request for exemptions
Candidates with experience in the field may be eligible for exemptions. To request academic and fieldwork exemptions, complete and send the ‘exemptions’ portfolio.
Oportunidades de financiamiento/becas
Belgian students may be eligible for ‘betaald educatief verlof’; see the website of the Federale Overheidsdienst WASO for more information. Application forms can be obtained at the student administration. Please notify the student administration if you want to apply, as lecturers need to take absence. It is also possible to pay with ‘opleidingscheques’.
Resultados del aprendizaje
Assessment:
At the end of each semester there are examinations of the finished theory courses. The fieldwork is evaluated by means of a Training Record Book and permanent evaluation.
Prerrequisitos
In order to be eligible, candidates require the following qualifications as a minimum:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent;
- Good knowledge of mathematics: differential and integral calculus, matrix algebra, co-ordinate geometry (2 and 3 dimensional) , spherical trigonometry, theory of errors, functions, series, complex variables;
- Good knowledge of physics: units of measure, mechanics, signal modulation, measurement of time, electricity and magnetism, optics, transducers, pressure, electronics;
- Good knowledge of English as all courses are in English.
See the detailed entry requirements for more information.
Categorías CINE (ISCED)
