Workboat (500/1600 GRT)
Maritime Apprenticeship Program
Frequently Asked Questions

Relocation for the Program?

 

You do not need to relocate for the Workboat MAP. You will need to make sure you are in Seattle for the class phases which are briefly outlined below. The partner companies generally assist with transportation to and from the vessels.

 

What is the Typical Flow of the Program?

 

For the Workboat MAP, the two-year program is split into 6 class phases and 6 sea phases. Below is a brief breakdown of the class and sea phases:

• Class Phase 1 (March 2025) – 4 weeks of classes which includes an orientation
• Sea Phase 1 – 14 weeks to go out with partner company and work on sea service requirements
• Class Phase 2 (late July – early Aug, 2025) – 4 weeks of classes
• Sea Phase 2 – 15 weeks to go out with partner company and work on sea service requirements
• Class Phase 3 (November, 2025) – 3 weeks of classes
• Sea Phase 3 – 21 weeks to go out with partner company and work on sea service requirements
• Class Phase 4 (April 2026) – 3 weeks of classes
• Sea Phase 4 – 21 weeks to go out with partner company and work on sea service requirements
• Class Phase 5 (October into November 2026) – 4 weeks of classes
• Sea Phase 5 – 11 weeks to go out with partner company and work on sea service requirements
• Class Phase 7 (February into March 2027) – 6 weeks of classes; end of classes
• Sea Phase 6 – as many weeks as needed to go out with partner company and finish sea service requirements

***Please note class dates are subject to change but expected to be as listed above***

 

Classes

 

• Classes are generally Monday through Friday, 0800-1600, with an hour for lunch.
• All classes except one are at the MITAGS campus in Seattle. One class will be at Compass Courses in Edmonds.
• MITAGS will provide plotting tools, calculator, student guides, and reference materials for all classes.
• Students are expected to bring their own notebooks, pens, and pencils.
• Due to the approval of the classes and program, classes must be attended in full and in person.
• This is the fastest track possible to this level of mate’s license, expect classes to be intense and challenging. The program covers an incredible wealth of information in just two years.
• Progress reports from the sea phase will be reviewed during class phases.

 

Sea Phases

 

As a requirement of the program, an apprentice must acquire 360 days of sea service while in the program. Any previous sea time does not count towards the 360 required days. Previous sea time may potentially be used after completion of the program to upgrade ratings and/or license.

• One day of sea service = 8 hours
• Apprentices are expected to shadow all the various deck roles onboard over the 2 years. As a deck officer, you will be a leader and must be aware of the individual roles onboard.
• Apprentices are expected to make continuous progress on the sea service requirements but it is during this time that there can be some flexibility for appointments, birthdays, holidays, life, etc.
• There will be progress reports during this time period that go to the captains, then to the WSF program manager, and then to the MITAGS program manager. The reports are reviewed during the next class phase.

 

How Much Does it Cost?

 

For 2025, tuition for the 500/1600ton Workboat MAP is estimated at $45,000. The total is split into 6 payments in alignment with each of the class phases during the two year program. Apprentices are expected to pay for the block of classes they are about to take, one week before they are about to take them. Refunds are generally not provided due to the structure of the program.

 

Paying for the Program

 

We understand that the cost of the program is a significant hurdle for many to face. We also understand the additional frustration that MITAGS is not able to accept financial aid as we are not an accredited institution. This is one part of why we break up the total cost of the program into tuition blocks. Typical plans for payment include:

• Saved and pay out of pocket
• Receive help from family
• Personal loan

This program is approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and honors the Post 9/11 GI Bill for eligible veterans and their dependents. Learn more

 

What Are the Wages?

 

Wages are dependent on the company and should be discussed if you proceed to an interview with the companies. Other conversations to have during a company interview included benefits, travel, and tuition assistance.

 

Housing Options

 

MITAGS-West has some deals sorted out with local hotels but we wouldn’t recommend that for an entire class phase. In general, we recommend Airbnb or an apartment sublet for both campuses to keep housing costs reasonable. Many of our apprentices pursue a group Airbnb.

 

What Licenses/Ratings is One Qualified for After Completion of the Program?

 

• 500/1600ton NC or Ocean Mate
• AB Limited (National)
• AS-D (International STCW rating)
• Lifeboatman
• RFPNW

 

What If I’m Not Accepted into the Scholarship Program?

 

Stay tuned to MITAGS social media channels for updates on new Maritime Apprenticeship Programs. At this time, MITAGS plans to run a Workboat MAP with a similar application timeline for 2026. The website will be updated as information becomes available.

To get started working in the maritime industry, one can get their documents (discussed above) and start applying for entry level jobs, i.e. Ordinary Seafarer (O.S.), Wiper, or Steward/Food Handler. One does not need to immediately go get training or go to a school to get a job on a vessel.

 

Can the Licenses/Ratings Transfer to Other Parts of the Maritime Industry?

 

Logistically, yes. However, the focus of the MITAGS Maritime Apprenticeship Program is for participants to train and find long-term career potential with one of our partner companies. We hope to honor our partners who support the program, with apprentices who plan to stay on course within their organization.  We recognize that the program was designed for people new to the industry, and there is much to explore.

The most flexible part of the license is the AB Limited. Almost all vessels need ABs or, at the very least, deckhands.

 

Other Considerations/Questions?

 

Criminal Convictions
A criminal record does not necessarily disqualify a person from getting a license. However, the related paperwork process requires completion of a 719C. Most of our partner companies travel through Canada. Please consult with a professional in the case of a DUI charge, as such violations can prevent a merchant mariner from entering Canada or working on vessels that travel into Canadian ports.

Learning Disabilities & Testing Accommodations
At MITAGS, we do our best to accommodate individuals with learning disabilities. However, outside of the school accommodations are not provided. All participants pursuant of the unlimited inland mate license are required to take the 5 USCG exams. The Regional Exam Centers are not allowed to provide accommodations, as allowances for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can impact language critical skills. Generally, there is no allowance made to ensure safety of crew. The exact language about accommodations can be viewed here under the Examinations Guide.

Other Programs
If you decide that another MITAGS apprenticeship program is a better fit, we encourage you to apply. Note that applications differ for each program.

Employment During Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship program is an intense two-year commitment that requires a participant’s full attention. During sea phases, participants are onboard the vessels 24/7. We do not recommend additional employment during the apprenticeship.