Professional Mariner
Does the idea of a career at sea appeal to you? Do you see yourself as the captain of a luxury yacht, or the crew on a large charter boat or even a cruise ship? Maybe you’re interested in being a merchant marine? If so, prepare for a career as a professional mariner through Orange Coast College’s unique Professional Mariner program. At our beautiful Sailing Center on the Newport Harbor, we provide mariner training that prepares you for the Merchant Mariner Credential. Or, you may wish to complete an associate degree and transfer to the California Maritime Academy. Trained captains and crew are in demand in Coastal California. If you’re looking to make your living with a maritime career, read on to learn more our unique mariner programs.
A sampling of courses for these careers
Coastal Navigation
Yachtkeeping and Engine Maintenance
Boat Handling
Maritime Environment
Introduction to Ocean Sailing
Radar Observer
Did you know?
Projected employment for professional mariners in California is expected to grow 15 percent through 2024, faster than average, according to O*Net Online.
Program Details
Complete our certificate program, and you’ll be well-prepared to enter a maritime career. Earn an associate degree for even greater advancement opportunities.
In less than 2 years
you can earn:
Certificate of Achievement
Build on your certificate
of achievement with a:
Certificate of Specialization
Or earn your
associate degree
in under 4 years
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Other Programs That Might Interest You
Did you know?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a certificate as
their highest level of education earned, on average, 20 percent more than
those whose highest education level is a high school diploma.
Our Team

Christina Anchondo, M.S.
CTE Outreach Specialist

Katie Ottoson, M.S.
Counselor, CTE and
Career Services