Schools Overview
Aspiring marine mechanics can earn an associate's degree or a certificate in the field. These programs are typically offered at community colleges and technical schools. Skagit Valley College, Alexandria Technical and Community College, and Cape Fear Community College offer some of the best academic programs in the nation for aspiring marine mechanics. Each of these schools offers a broad curriculum that includes instruction in many aspects of marine mechanics.
Skagit Valley College
Located in Mount Vernon, WA, Skagit Valley College's marine maintenance technology certificate and associate's degree programs prepare students for a variety of marine trades by teaching them how to work with engine equipment, repair damaged inboard drivetrain components, and perform basic maintenance on outboard engines, electrical systems, outdrive propulsions systems, and inboard engines. All faculty in Skagit Valley College's Marine Maintenance Technology program have either worked in the industry or are currently working in the industry. Their marine technology classes cover topics such as marine electrical systems, marine engine systems, marine electronics, and marine plumbing and sanitation systems.
Alexandria Technical College
Alexandria Technical and Community College was the first 2-year college in Minnesota to be accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The school offers a 72-credit program that confers an associate's degree in marine and small engine mechanics. In addition to working on marine engines, students study the repair of snowmobiles and motorcycles. Marine mechanics coursework includes an examination of marine drive systems, marine engine systems, marine fuel systems, marine electrical systems, outdoor power equipment, and technical math.
Cape Fear Community College
At Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, NC, students can earn a certificate, diploma, and associate's degree in diesel and heavy equipment technology . Program coursework provides training for technicians who want to work on marine propulsions systems as well as the engines found in industrial equipment. Students also develop skills in the maintenance, testing, inspection, and repair of marine electrical and hydraulic systems. Graduates can find work at marinas and ship yards.
List of Top Marine Mechanic Schools
These schools also offer strong marine mechanics programs:
| School Name | Location | Distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Kingsborough Community College | Brooklyn, NY | Offers a one-year marine mechanic certificate program |
| Hennepin Technical College | Brooklyn Park, MN | Hosts tool vendors on campus to help students save money when buying their tools for the program |
| Honolulu Community College | Honolulu, HI | Facilities include the Marine Education Center |
| Iowa Lakes Community College | Estherville, IA | Marine service technology students can pursue a business management or marine emphasis in their second year of this associate's degree program |
| National Park Community College | Hot Springs, AR | Offers a course on boat maintenance for the off-season |
| New England Institute of Technology | Warwick, RI | Associate's degree program graduates can continue on to bachelor's degree programs |
| North Georgia Technical College | Clarkesville, GA | Offers a diploma program in marine engine technology |
| Olympic College | Bremerton, WA | Offers industrial trade technician programs that culminate in a certificate or associate's degree in marine machinery mechanics |
| University of Alaska Southeast | Juneau, AK | Offers a one-year occupational endorsement, a two-year associate's degree, and apprenticeship programs |
Aspiring marine mechanics can find comprehensive training programs through several technical schools and community colleges. These programs lead to certificates, diplomas, or associate's degrees, and some of the best offer instruction that can prepare graduates for a wide range of career fields.
