Program Overview

Fall 2025 Cohort Applications open

We are still accepting applications for the FALL 2025-2026 year to hold a position on the waitlist and to potentially be accepted into the program. We are admitting for FALL 2026-2027 for those who want to defer to that year. Click Get Started below to view all applicant eligibility requirements. 
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About the Program

Seattle Central College’s Seattle Maritime Academy offers a Marine Deck Technology program that combines practical shipboard experience with classroom instruction to help you learn the theory, design, operation and maintenance of deck equipment and applied navigation skills.

Career Opportunities

As maritime industry employers like the Washington State Ferries face a shortage of deckhands due to an aging workforce, demand for graduates of a U.S. Coast Guard approved training programs is growing. 

The Marine Deck Technology program can prepare you for a position as an Able Seafarer, which is your first step in an exciting career in the deck department that could one day lead you to the wheelhouse as a mate or a captain of a vessel. As an Able Seafarer on vessels, you will need to know how to:

• Stand watch and steer the ship
• Do routine maintenance
• Keep the inside of the ship clean
• Handle lines when docking or departing
• Tie barges together when they are being towed
• Load and unload cargo
• Assist passengers, as necessary

Intensive Education

Our expert instructors, with extensive maritime experience, will help you gain practical experience working in our advanced training facility equipped with a simulation labs and aboard our fleet of vessel. You will build skills in navigation, marine math, vessel handling and seamanship, preparing them for an in-demand maritime career and apply those skills during an at-sea internship. As a graduate of the Marine Deck Technology program, you will be well-prepared to launch a maritime career.