Maritime Apprenticeship Programs

Maritime Apprenticeship Program (MAP)

Become a Licensed Deck Officer in Just Over 2 Years

Start a high-paying maritime career with no prior experience. The Maritime Apprenticeship Program (MAP) at MITAGS is one of the fastest, most direct paths to earning your U.S. Coast Guard Mate’s license and working aboard U.S. vessels.

Train in real-world environments—on tugboats, ferries, and Great Lakes ships—while building the skills needed to succeed at sea.

Contact a School Advisor

Why Choose the Maritime Apprenticeship Program?

U.S. Coast Guard Approved Training
Fully approved by the USCG, State of Washington WTECB, Maryland MHEC, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Fast-Track to a Maritime Career
Earn eligibility for your Mate’s license in just over two years—significantly faster than traditional maritime academies.

Hands-On, Real-World Experience
Alternate between classroom instruction and onboard vessel training.

Award-Winning Program
Recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor and Lloyd’s List for excellence in maritime training.

Maritime Career Pathways

Choose from multiple U.S. Coast Guard-approved license tracks:

Some pathways also qualify for international certification as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW).

Program Structure – How It Works

The Maritime Apprenticeship Program combines:

  • Classroom-based maritime training
  • 360+ days of paid sea service
  • Direct experience with industry partner companies

By the end of the program, you’ll be prepared to sit for the U.S. Coast Guard licensing exam and begin working as a deck officer.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

Obtain:
1. TWIC
2. Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
3. Medical Certificate
4. Pass a math entrance exam (minimum 85%)

    Why a Math Entrance Exam?

    Acceptance into the MITAGS apprenticeship program requires a math exam for several reasons:

    Skill Requirement: Many apprenticeship programs, especially those in technical or trade fields, require a strong foundation in mathematics. Math skills are crucial for understanding navigation concepts, performing calculations, and problem-solving in real-world scenarios. Thus, the math exam serves as a preliminary assessment of an applicant’s mathematical proficiency.

    Course Intensity: The apprenticeship program is intensive, hands-on training that covers a wide range of specific subjects in a relatively short period. A solid understanding of mathematics is essential for keeping pace with the curriculum and comprehending complex concepts. The math exam helps ensure that applicants have the necessary skills to succeed in the demanding coursework.

    Predictive Value: Evidence from previous programs indicates a relationship between performance on the math exam and success in the apprenticeship program. Applicants who struggle with the math exam may also encounter difficulties in understanding course materials and completing classes.

    Resource Allocation: Accepting applicants who lack sufficient math skills could lead to challenges for both the students and the program itself. Students who struggle with math often require additional support and resources that may not be available. By setting a minimum standard through the math exam, the program can ensure that resources are available and used effectively and efficiently to support all accepted students.

    In summary, requiring a math exam for acceptance into the MITAGS apprenticeship program helps ensure that applicants have the necessary skills to succeed in the rigorous coursework. It serves as an initial mechanism to identify individuals who are better prepared to handle the technical demands of the program, ultimately benefiting both the students and the program as a whole. MITAGS and WSF aim to make sure that applicants are well-prepared to succeed in the apprenticeship program and the math exam helps in that process.

    Wondering what math to expect? Click below to access a workbook to prepare for the math exam.

     

    Mathmatics for the MAP Program

    Benefits of a Maritime Apprenticeship

    No College Degree Required
    Launch a maritime career without student debt.

    Earn While You Learn
    Receive a stipend during your onboard training.

    Job Placement Opportunities
    Many apprentices are hired directly by their partner companies.

    Industry Connections
    Train with established maritime companies across the U.S.

    High Earning Potential
    Maritime careers often offer higher wages and long-term stability.

    Available Maritime Apprenticeship Programs

    👉 View Current Openings & Apply

    Learn More In Our MAP Video!

    Click below to view the MAP brochure.

    AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

    WASHINGTON STATE FERRIES

    Campus Location: MITAGS-West (Seattle, Washington)

    Partner Company Providing Onboard Training: Washington State Ferries

    Program Start Date: Spring 2027 (Tentative)

    Application Deadline:

    • Application Submission: June 2026 (Tentative – Watch this Space)
    • Notification of Application Acceptance/Decline: TBD
    • Notification of Scholarship Award: Mid – TBD

    License Pathway: Unlimited Tonnage Mate – Inland

    Tuition Cost: N/A – This is a scholarship funded program

     

    LEARN MORE
    WORKBOAT MATE

    Campus Location: MITAGS-West (Seattle, Washington)

    Partner Company Providing Onboard Training: Multiple

    Program Start Date: March 2027

    Application Dates:

    • Application period opens August 03, 2026
    • Application period closes September 30, 2026

    License Pathway: Limited Tonnage Mate (500/1600 GRT) 

    Tuition Cost: $45,000 for 2025.  2027 Tuition TBD.

    • Total cost over two years split into 6 payments
    • Does not include lodging
    LEARN MORE
    GRAND RIVER NAVIGATION

    Campus Location: MITAGS-East (Linthicum Heights, Maryland)

    Partner Company Providing Onboard Training: Grand River Navigation

    Program Start Date: April, 2027

    Application Dates:

    • Summer 2026

    License Pathway: Unlimited Tonnage Mate – Inland and Great Lakes

    Tuition Cost: $45,000 for 2025. 2027 Cost TBD

    • Total cost over two years split into 6 payments
    • Does not include lodging
    LEARN MORE
    We offer the ability of a person to come in, absolutely new to the industry without having any previous experience, and we can provide the training they would need in order to actually obtain their Coast Guard license.
    Emily Hopkins

    Director of MITAGS West

    Ready to Work at Sea?

    If you’re serious about building a high-paying, hands-on career, this is your next step.

    MITAGS has helped hundreds of apprentices launch careers on tugboats, ferries, and commercial vessels across the U.S.

    Spots are limited and programs fill quickly.

    Contact a School Advisor
    After careful review, this Program is based on sound pedagogy and a careful consideration of the standards that must be met by the graduates. It is an intense, demanding program. Good! We want competent people on the bridge.
    Dr. Allen Glen

    Dean Emeritus, University of Washington

    MAP Frequently Asked Questions

    HOW MUCH IS THE TUITION?
    Please contact a school advisor for the latest MAP tuition rates. Tuition is paid in pre-scheduled increments over the duration of the program at the start of each academic phase. Tuition includes books and simulation fees.
    IS FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?
    MAP is approved to accept VA educational benefits such as the Post 9/11 GI Bill® . However, at this time, federal financial aid is not available.
    HOW MUCH IS THE STIPEND?
    During your time with the MAP, the stipend while on a vessel will depend on several factors, but generally is at the partner company’s discretion. Some companies abide by the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) stipulated stipend of $30 a day, whereas other companies may offer a higher stipend or pay an hourly rate.
    DO I HAVE TO FIND A COMPANY TO TAKE ME ON AS AN APPRENTICE?
    MITAGS’ MAP has built strong partnerships with various partner companies. Knowing the needs and requirements of each company, we strive to match the right apprentices with the right company.
    DO I HAVE ANY SAY IN WHAT COMPANY I MAY APPRENTICE WITH?
    As much as is practicable, applicants preferences are taken into consideration.
    WHAT WILL MY SALARY BE ONCE I HAVE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED THE PROGRAM?
    Salaries are determined by many factors, but the median rate for a Deck Officer working on tugs is $400 per day. Other sectors of the industry can vary greatly in their compensation.
    HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET MY TWIC AND MMC?
    The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is administered by the TSA, and the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. While the timelines for obtaining these credentials can vary greatly due to agency demands, applicants should plan for at least three months from the time they apply for their TWIC to receive both credentials.
    HOW LONG ARE THE SEA PHASES?
    The length of each trip depends on what part of the maritime industry you will be working in, as well as the needs of each individual company. A voyage can be anywhere from a week to a few months in duration. Apprentices are given an ample amount of time to complete their required days at sea.
    IS HOUSING INCLUDED IN THE TUITION?
    No, housing is not included in the tuition.
    CAN I WORK ON THE SIDE WHILE IN THE PROGRAM?
    Working while enrolled in the Maritime Apprenticeship Program is extremely challenging. Apprentices spend 360 calendar days at sea and approximately 26 weeks in the classroom during the program. Due to the seasonal and unpredictable nature of the maritime industry, it is difficult to forecast days off.
    HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM?
    The duration of the program is approximately 28 months; however, some participants have finished in as few as 24 months. Completion of the program includes finishing all the required coursework, completing the training record book, and accumulating 360 days of sea service.
    WHAT CLASS HOURS WILL I HAVE?
    Classroom hours are 8:00am to 4:00pm, Monday through Friday. Some classes meet on Saturdays. Homework is regularly assigned throughout the week, and for classes longer than one week in duration, homework is assigned over the weekend.
    DOES THE SCHOOL ASSIST WITH JOB PLACEMENT ONCE I COMPLETE THE PROGRAM?
    Sailing and working 360 days within the program allows the partner company to extensively observe and evaluate apprentices. Over 90% of our alumni stay on with the company with whom they apprenticed.
    WHEN DOES THE PROGRAM START?
    The program typically starts in the Spring or Fall, but may vary. Please contact the Program Manager for the latest schedule.
    CAN I USE COURSES I TOOK PREVIOUSLY FOR THIS PROGRAM?
    MITAGS’ Maritime Apprenticeship Programs are United States Coast Guard approved training programs. As such, the USCG accepts the training students receive in the classroom as well as time on board vessels, and apprentices receive credit for a portion of the necessary sea time required for a Mate’s license. This arrangement with the USCG does not allow for courses taken elsewhere, and all courses are required in order to complete the program.
    CAN I USE PREVIOUSLY ACQUIRED SEA TIME FOR THIS PROGRAM?
    As mentioned above, the program approval requires 360 days of sea service within the program. For questions regarding your specific situation, please call the Program Manager toll-free, at 1-(866) 656-5568.
    ARE ALL THE PROGRAMS THE SAME?
    The MAP Deck Program offers a ‘Third Mate Unlimited’ track and a ‘500-1600 GRT Limited’ track, also known as the Workboat Mate Program or Workboat Academy.
    DO I HAVE TO MOVE TO THE CITY MY CAMPUS IS LOCATED IN?
    Students are required to be on campus during the classroom phases of the program but are not required to relocate to the city in which the campus is located. Many apprentices find temporary lodging for the classroom phases.
    AM I TOO OLD FOR THIS PROGRAM?
    MAP is open to anyone that is qualified for the position. The program is physically demanding with long arduous hours. If you are in good health, and able to meet the job description, you will certainly be given the exact same consideration as anyone else. It should be noted, however, that one of the primary reasons for the establishment of the MAP was due to an aging workforce.
    HOW MANY WOMEN ARE ENROLLED IN THE PROGRAM?
    While the maritime industry is traditionally male-dominated, more and more women are successfully entering the field. MAP has several female instructors who are accomplished Chief Officers, Captains and Mates. Women interested in a career at sea are strongly encouraged to apply.
    HOW DO I GET THE ENROLLMENT PROCESS STARTED?
    Complete and submit the inquiry form on the ‘Contact Us’ page of this website or email us at [email protected], and a MAP representative will be in touch with more information.