Marine Transportation Degree Programs
Learn about degree options and licensure requirements to work in marine transportation. Find out about typical job duties as well as possible working environments.
What Degrees Do I Need to Work in Marine Transportation?
A bachelor's degree in marine transportation or marine transportation operations can prepare you for work in the field. A degree program in this field can lead to careers in marine insurance, charter brokering, ship operations and many departments on land, including engineering.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Requirements</b></td><td> Bachelor's degree in marine transportation or marine transportation operations</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Course Topics</b></td><td> Ship operations, port management, repairing ships and barges, electrical navigation systems and handling cargo</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Required Credentials</b></td><td> Licensure through the U.S. Coast Guard, Transportation Worker Identification Credential</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td>$59,250 <i>(Water Transportation Workers)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td>0% growth <i>(Water Transportation Workers)</i></td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillIStudy">What Will I Study?</h3><p>Marine transportation programs are interdisciplinary in nature, focusing on maritime disciplines and engineering basics. You'll learn how to survive on open waters while controlling a vessel. You'll become familiar with ship operations, terminology, port management, admiral laws and boat safety. Shipboard medicine, navigation strategies, meteorology and watchkeeping are among the skills you'll develop. These skills are essential for work on large vessels.
</p><p>The engineering area allows you to make repairs and handle ships and barges. You'll study welding, ship architecture, maintenance and ship stability. You'll also learn how to work with refrigeration systems, electrical navigation systems and communication technologies. It's also important for you to understand the various ship types, such as barges, ferries, tugboats and tankers. You'll also gain knowledge in handling cargo.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCredentialsAreAvailable">What Credentials Are Available?</h3><p>The U.S. Coast Guard is the only organization to offer licensure in marine transportation. It offers the Merchant Mariner Credential, a license that can carry endorsements for deck personnel, maritime engineers and entry-level security and radio officers. Some colleges require that you complete the Third Mate examination prior to graduation. You can consult the National Maritime Center (NMC) to locate exams (<i>www.uscg.mil</i>).
</p><p>Prospective merchant mariners must also receive the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) provided by U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This credential holds your fingerprint template for identification purposes. The Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 requires you to obtain this prior to obtaining merchant mariner credentials (<i>www.tsa.gov</i>).</p>