Start a Career at Sea — Maritime Training for Beginners and Professionals

MITAGS trains new and experienced mariners for careers in shipping, offshore energy, towing, and passenger vessels through hands-on simulation and U.S. Coast Guard-approved programs

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CHOOSE YOUR PATHWAY

New to Maritime?

Start your maritime career with Basic Training, which helps you earn a key qualification on your Merchant Mariner Credential and qualify for entry-level maritime jobs.

You can also advance through the MITAGS Programs to earn your first officer license while gaining sea experience.

Start Your Maritime Career

Already Sailing?

Advance your career by upgrading your license through advanced officer and management-level training programs that help experienced mariners move into higher-level positions and command roles.

Find a Course

Training for Your Company?

MITAGS delivers customized simulation-based training and safety programs for maritime companies, vessel operators, and government agencies. Our programs combine advanced bridge and engine simulators with experienced instructors to help crews improve safety, operational readiness, and real-world decision-making in complex maritime environments.

View Simulator Capabilities

Testimonials

Moussa Dabo

Chief Pilot

"MITAGS' Chief Mate Master Program focused on the essential materials and practical knowledge needed to succeed and advance my career. Your experienced instructors are valuable resources, as they all had a long careers at sea prior to being in the classroom. Sharing their experiences and other case studies with us was truly insightful and helped with my success."

Christopher Aiello

APL Maritime, Ltd.

"Jerry Hasselbach, David and Olav were great instructors. Jerry, especially. He stuck by me when I did not pass the course previously and made me go out and get better – and I did. To pass the course now has been great, and I will forever be grateful and learn from this experience.”

Elizabeth Kretovic

Mid-Atlantic Marine Affairs Manager, Ørsted Offshore North America

"As a developer, stakeholder engagement is paramount to the successful development of projects. MITAGS has made our vision a reality through its navigation simulator, which allows the user to conceptualize the magnitude and layout of the wind farm resulting in a clearer understanding of the project rather than simply looking over charts and drawings on paper...MITAGS’ innovation in developing both simulated wind farms and realistic vessel models will significantly contribute to navigation safety and familiarity as the new industry is making its way into the U.S. market." Read the full recommendation letter here.

FAQ

How long does it take to become a licensed deck officer?

The timeline depends on the training pathway and sea experience. Some structured programs, such as maritime apprenticeship programs, allow students to progress from entry-level training to a Mate’s license in just over two years, combining classroom instruction, simulator training, and required sea time.

What certifications do I need to work on a ship?

Most professional mariners need several credentials, including:

Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) issued by the U.S. Coast Guard
STCW Basic Training certification
A valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Additional endorsements depending on the role and vessel type

MITAGS training programs help mariners complete many of these required certifications.

What industries hire MITAGS graduates?

MITAGS graduates work across many maritime sectors, including:

Commercial shipping
Tug and towing operations
Offshore energy and wind farms
Passenger vessels and ferries
Government and military support fleets
Port operations and maritime logistics

These sectors rely on skilled maritime professionals to safely operate vessels and support global trade.

Can veterans use the GI Bill to pay for maritime training at MITAGS?

Yes. Many MITAGS training programs are approved for VA education benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Eligible veterans may use these benefits to help pay for training programs including the Maritime Apprenticeship Program and license advancement courses.

What maritime training programs at MITAGS are GI Bill approved?

Several MITAGS programs are approved for GI Bill benefits, including:

Maritime Apprenticeship Programs (MAP)
AB to Mate license upgrade programs
Mate to Master license advancement programs
Certain professional maritime training courses

These programs allow veterans to transition into maritime careers while using their education benefits.

Can I start a maritime career with no experience?

Yes. Many people enter the maritime industry with little or no previous experience. Entry-level training such as STCW Basic Training or structured programs like the Maritime Apprenticeship Program provide the foundational skills needed to begin working at sea.