A four-year degree is not the only way into a maritime career.
Apprenticeships and training programs can lead directly to work aboard ships, in shipyards, in marine construction, and throughout the skilled trades. Some programs combine classroom instruction with paid work or sea time.
Seafarers International Union - Unlicensed Apprentice Program
The Seafarers International Union operates one of the country's largest entry-level training programs for merchant mariners at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland.
The program combines classroom and hands-on training for people with little or no maritime experience and prepares students for work in the deck, engine, or steward departments.
- Deck
- Engine
- Steward
Training includes seamanship, cargo handling, engine-room familiarization, shipboard tools, firefighting, water survival, first aid, and other maritime skills. SIU does not charge tuition, room, or board for the entry-level apprentice program, although students are responsible for certain personal, document, medical, and travel costs.
U.S. Navy Enlisted Careers
The U.S. Navy offers another direct path into technical and maritime careers through enlisted service.
Enlisted Sailors begin with Recruit Training, followed by specialized training for a Navy job, known as a rating. Depending on qualifications and ASVAB scores, careers can include:
- Machinist's Mate
- Electrician's Mate
- Hull Maintenance Technician
- Engineman
- Gas Turbine Systems Technician
- Electronics Technician
- Information Systems
- Technician
- Operations Specialist
- Quartermaster
- Nuclear Field careers
- Aviation maintenance
- Logistics and supply
- Construction and skilled trades
Many of these jobs combine classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training aboard ships, submarines, aircraft, shore facilities and other Navy commands. As Sailors gain experience, they can advance into technical leadership and supervisory roles. The skills gained can also transfer into civilian careers after military service.
Enlisted applicants generally need a high school diploma or GED, must qualify through the ASVAB and medical screening, and complete Recruit Training before beginning specialized job training.
MITAGS - Maritime Apprenticeship Programs
The Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies, or MITAGS, offers structured apprenticeship programs combining classroom instruction, simulation, and onboard training.
Its Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program at MITAGS-West in Seattle is designed for people with little or no maritime experience and prepares apprentices to work toward a 500- or 1600-ton Mate license. The program combines instruction with paid onboard training through participating employers.
Curtin Maritime - Long Beach, California
For students in Southern California, Curtin Maritime provides a local path into marine construction and vessel operations. The company operates tugboats, barges, cranes, and marine construction equipment.
- Deckhand
- Welder
- Engineer
- Mate
- Crane Operator
- Captain
Curtin develops employees through hands-on work and internal training, showing how employment and skill development can happen together.
Maritime Workforce Training Centers
The U.S. Maritime Administration designates Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education, including community colleges, technical schools, and workforce-training organizations nationwide.
Credentials for Working at Sea
Depending on the job, commercial mariners may need federal credentials before they can work aboard a vessel.
TWIC - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
Issued through the Transportation Security Administration and used for access to secure areas of maritime facilities and vessels.
Merchant Mariner Credential - MMC
Issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. The endorsement required depends on the job.
U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center
Merchant Mariner Credential Checklists
Before Choosing a Program
Start with the career you want and determine what training or credential it actually requires. Ask:
- What job does this program prepare me for?
- What credential or certification will I earn?
- Does it include hands-on training?
- Does it include paid work or sea time?
- Which employers hire graduates?
- What will the total program cost be?
The goal is not simply to take maritime classes. It is to choose training that leads somewhere.
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