Train for a Maritime Career

Set a course for a career that will take you places

Maritime is one of the oldest and most important industries in Seattle-King County, employing over 20,000 people at 800 companies--including the largest ferry system in the U.S.

Seattle Maritime Academy prepares the next generation of skilled mariners to fill vital roles in all sectors of the maritime industry, from ferries to fishing vessels, tugboats to tankers. Our one-year certificate programs emphasize hands-on training and on-the-water experiences, and small class sizes ensure personalized one-on-one education taught by US Coast Guard-approved instructors who are also professional mariners with extensive maritime experience.

A current wave of retirements due to an aging workforce has led to a dramatic rise in entry-level job openings in the maritime industry, both locally and globally. This means there's never been a better time to choose a career in maritime. Our graduates are in great demand and most start their careers immediately after completing the program.

We are a US Coast Guard-approved training program that satisfies federal maritime requirements. New students may enroll only in the Fall Quarter.