Program Overview

Small class gathers around boat engine to listen to the teacher explain how it works.

Develop skills in the installation, service, and repair of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems used by recreational and commercial boats and ships in the Associate of Science (AS) in Marine Technology degree program at ×ö°®ÊÓƵ Institute of Technology (×ö°®ÊÓƵ).

×ö°®ÊÓƵ offers premier marine tech training in Rhode Island at our Post Road, Access Road, or East Greenwich campuses, all within minutes of each other. You learn the technical and theoretical competencies to work in docks and marinas, repair shops, and wholesale/retail product sales.

The program prepares you for a career as a mechanic and for professional certifications through the American Boating and Yacht Council (ABYC). You can also pursue your bachelor’s degree in business management at ×ö°®ÊÓƵ after graduation to further advance your career.

 

Program Highlights

  • Spend almost half of your technical courses in the lab practicing the skills you developed in the classroom.
  • Earn your associate degree in as few as 18 months.
  • Prepare for an entry-level position in the industry.

 

Why Choose ×ö°®ÊÓƵ’s Marine Tech Training Program?

 

Be Job Ready Upon Graduation

 

The marine technology program allows you to achieve factory technician certification to repair Volvo Penta and Yamaha propulsion systems. In turn, you’ll qualify for entry-level positions in boatyard operations, boat and shop manufacturing, engine repair, marine electronics installation, and more. Upon graduation, you’ll also become a member of the .

 

Practice With the Latest Technology

 

Put your education into practice in hands-on settings where you develop practical skills in the installation, service, and repair of various recreational and commercial boating systems. These experiences reinforce the solid foundation you’ll acquire in the basic functions of the discipline through in-depth theory classes. In addition, you build familiarity with marine business procedures by using marine-specific computer software.

 

Receive Support Along the Way

 

At ×ö°®ÊÓƵ, you don’t go it alone. Along your college journey, you receive ample support, including from the Career Services Office, which can assist you with the job search, resume writing, interview prep, and job search strategy. You can also submit a resume to the Career Services Office, which will then circulate it to help you land opportunities in your field.

 

Learn From the Experts

 

Faculty members leading the marine technology program are factory-certified by ABYC, Volvo, and Mercury Marine. The Marine Technology Department is the ×ö°®ÊÓƵ training site for Volvo Penta Marine, with advanced training available for qualified students. ×ö°®ÊÓƵ faculty support and mentor students at each step and encourage them to become certified Volvo Penta Technicians after earning their associate degree.

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Marine Technology Careers

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The marine tech training program equips students with the knowledge and ability to repair, maintain, and rebuild electrical systems, boat engines, motors, and other marine instruments. Depending on their career goals, graduates may need additional certifications before they can begin work in the field.

Our graduates are skilled boat technicians ready for entry-level positions and can work in marina/boatyard operations, boat and shop manufacturing, and marine engine repair. They can also provide support services for commercial boats and shops, engine room staff aboard commercial vessels, marine electronics installation, and marine wholesale/retail product sales.

This versatile and expansive skill set means students can find plenty of job openings in repair shops, though they may also find work on docks and marinas performing on-site overhauls for larger crafts like commercial fishing boats or private vessels.

The hands-on experience ×ö°®ÊÓƵ provides also qualifies students for careers in specialty positions across the boating and marine industry. Attainable marine service titles may include:


Engine Builder

Franchise/Dealership Manager

Marine Mechanic

Marine Systems Installer

Marine Technician

Advance Your Career With a Bachelor’s Degree

As a graduate of the marine technology training program, you can continue your education with ×ö°®ÊÓƵ’s Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management. Not only does this further your credentials, but it also helps you advance your career and boost your earning potential.

Admissions

Wherever you’re at in your professional journey, ×ö°®ÊÓƵ can get you one step closer to your goals through our streamlined and straightforward admissions process. Find the information you need to apply, whether you’re a recent high school graduate or returning to college later in life.

Review ×ö°®ÊÓƵ admissions.

Financial Aid

Determining how to fund your degree is an important step — it’s also one we’re here for at every turn, guiding you through each funding option, including grants, scholarships, and federal and private student loans. Discover the financial aid package that’s right for you.Ìý

Explore ×ö°®ÊÓƵ financial aid options.

Take the Next Step — Apply to the Marine Technology Program Today

×ö°®ÊÓƵ Tech’s marine tech training program equips you with the technical abilities to thrive while empowering you to harness your versatile skill set in a range of professional settings. Start your career in as few as 18 months — apply today to get started or request more information.

FAQ

  • How do you become a certified marine mechanic?

    Becoming a certified marine mechanic involves several steps. First, students must pursue an associate degree or equivalent. There, they gain the skills needed to perform entry-level work. We recommend one to two years of on-the-job experience before pursuing certification.

    After that time, we encourage interested individuals to browse ABYC certification programs. The ABYC offers certifications in subjects such as AC/Refrigeration, Diesel Engines, and Advanced Marine Electrical.

    Certifications are valid for five years. After that, individuals must pass a recertification exam to maintain their status.

  • Is marine mechanics a good career?

     

    Yes, job prospects for marine mechanics remain promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, . These positions may require specific training related to their product lines. The boat building and repair and maintenance industries are also major employers of individuals involved in the marine trades.

Related Programs

Program Mission, Goals, and Outcomes

Program Mission

The mission of the Marine Technology program (MT) is to train entry-level technicians for employment in the marine field as well-rounded electrical and mechanical diagnostic technicians. Through the use of practical lab exercises and classroom experiences, the student will gain knowledge in electrical theory, outboard engine repair, marine gas and diesel inboard repair, transmissions, and navigation. Students will be well versed in ABYC standards through the use and reference to the standards manual throughout their program. Through participation in both lab and classroom experiences the successful student will gain the knowledge and experience necessary to be awarded an Associate in Science degree.

 

Program Goals

 

  1. The MT program will provide the students with the necessary experiences to become employed in a marine repair and/or manufacturing facility.
  2. The MT program will expose the students to the ABYC standards employed in the field of marine vessel construction and repair.
  3. The MT program will strive to instill in the students a professional work ethic.
  4. The MT program will provide the students with knowledge of workplace hazards and safe working practices to be used when working around the waterfront or in the presence of travel lifts and other hoisting equipment.

 

Program Outcomes

Students successfully completing the Marine Technology program will be able to:

  1. Perform basic marine engine installation, diagnostics, tune-ups, and repairs using the appropriate industry-required service literature.
  2. Properly perform electrical installations, and troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair electrical devices according to ABYC standards and industry-related service literature.
  3. Properly remove service, reinstall, align, and adjust marine drive systems and controls.
  4. Properly create repair estimates, repair orders, and marina service records required for the successful operation of a marine business.
  5. Demonstrate and understand environmental laws, Clean Marina protocols, and EPA requirements associated with working in the marine industry for both fresh and saltwater areas.

 

Accreditation Status

 

×ö°®ÊÓƵ’s marine technology program is an ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) Marine League of Schools member. The Marine League of Schools is comprised of post-secondary schools offering marine trade programs that provide ABYC standards-based educational programming. The marine technology program is conditionally accredited by the , ABYC Foundation, 613 Third Street, Annapolis, MD 21146, 410-990-4460, ext. 200, [email protected].

Marine Technology Courses

The Associate of Science in Marine Technology program’s introductory courses cover engine theory, electricity fundamentals, safety practices, and hands-on lab work. During their second term, students take advanced marine electricity and electronics installation, marine engine applications, forklift safety and operations, and electric welding and cutting.

Theory and service-focused courses round out students’ experience in the remaining terms. The program culminates in a marine industry internship.

There is an optional seventh term, which allows students to deepen their knowledge in the following areas:

  • Advanced Marine Diesel Service and Maintenance
  • Advanced Marine Gasoline and EFI Emissions
  • Advanced Marine Propulsion Systems

For a full list of courses, review the catalog.

Q&A and Technical Standards

Questions & Answers

  1. When do my classes meet?
    Class schedules can vary from term to term. Please contact an admissions officer at [email protected] to ask for the available schedules and requirements for your anticipated entry term.
  2. How large will my classes be?
    The average size for a class is about 20 to 25 students; however, larger and smaller classes occur from time to time.
  3. How much time will I spend in lab?
    Almost half of your technical courses consist of laboratory work. In order for you to get the most out of your laboratory experiences, you will first receive a thorough explanation of the theory behind your lab work.
  4. Where do my classes meet?
    Students should be prepared to attend classes at any of ×ö°®ÊÓƵ’s classroom facilities: either at the Post Road, Access Road, or East Greenwich campus.
  5. I have not earned my high school diploma or GED: can I enroll in an Associate Degree Program?
    A candidate for admission to an associate degree program must have a high school diploma, have earned a recognized equivalency diploma (GED), or meet the federal home school requirements.
  6. How long should it take me to complete my program?
    To complete your degree requirements in the shortest possible time, you should take the courses outlined in the prescribed curriculum. For a typical six-term curriculum, a student may complete the requirements in as little as 18 months.To complete all your degree requirements in the shortest time, you should take at least one liberal arts course each term. Students who need more time to complete their curriculum may postpone some of the liberal arts courses until after the completion of the technical requirements. Students are provided up to two additional terms of study to complete the liberal arts requirements without any additional tuition assessment fee. During these additional terms of study, students are required to pay all applicable fees.Students may also elect to complete some of their liberal arts requirements during Intersession, a five-week term scheduled between Spring and Summer Quarters. Students will not be assessed any additional tuition for liberal arts courses taken during the Intersession but may be assessed applicable fees.Students wishing to extend the number of terms needed to complete the required technical courses in their curriculum will be assessed additional tuition and fees.
  7. Is ×ö°®ÊÓƵ accredited?
    ×ö°®ÊÓƵ is accredited by the ×ö°®ÊÓƵ Commission of Higher Education. Accreditation by NECHE is recognized by the federal government and entitles ×ö°®ÊÓƵ to participate in federal financial aid programs. Some academic departments have specialized professional accreditations in addition to accreditation by NECHE. For more information on accreditation, see ×ö°®ÊÓƵ’s catalog.
  8. Can I transfer the credits that I earn at ×ö°®ÊÓƵ to another college?
    The transferability of a course is always up to the institution to which the student is transferring. Students interested in the transferability of their credits should contact the Office of Teaching and Learning for further information.
  9. Can I transfer credits earned at another college to ×ö°®ÊÓƵ?
    Transfer credit for appropriate courses taken at an accredited institution will be considered upon receipt of an official transcript for any program, biology, science, and mathematics courses in which the student has earned a “C” or above within the past three years and for English or humanities courses in which the student has earned a “C” or above within the last ten years. An official transcript from the other institution must be received before the end of the first week of the term for transfer credit to be granted for courses to be taken during that term. Students will receive a tuition reduction for the approved technical courses based on the program rate and will be applied against the final technical term of the curriculum’s tuition amount. No tuition credit is provided for courses which are not a part of the technical curriculum.
  10. What is the “Feinstein Enriching America” Program?
    ×ö°®ÊÓƵ Institute of Technology is the proud recipient of a grant from the Feinstein Foundation. To satisfy the terms of the grant, the College has developed a one-credit community enrichment course which includes hands-on community enrichment projects. The course can be taken for a few hours per term, spread over several terms. Students who are already engaged in community enrichment on their own may be able to count that service towards course credit.
  11. How many credits do I need to acquire my Financial Aid?
    In order to be eligible for the maximum financial aid award, you need to maintain at least 12 credits per academic term.
  12. What does my program cost?
    The cost of your program will be as outlined in your enrollment agreement, along with your cost for books and other course materials. Students who decide to take more terms than the enrollment agreement describes to complete the technical courses in their curriculum will be subject to additional fees and possible additional tuition costs. Students who elect to take the technical portion of the degree requirements at a rate faster than the rate prescribed in the curriculum and the enrollment agreement will be assessed additional tuition.Students who require prerequisite courses will incur additional tuition and fees above those outlined in their enrollment agreement.If a student elects to take a course(s) outside of the prescribed curriculum, additional tuition and fees will be assessed.Remember, students who withdraw and re-enter, one time only, pay the tuition rate that was in effect for them at the time of their last day of attendance for up to one year from their last day of attendance. Second re-entrees and beyond pay the tuition rate in effect at the time they re-enter. The most economical way for you to complete your college degree is to begin your program now and continue your studies straight through for the six terms necessary to complete your degree requirements.
  13. What kind of employment assistance does ×ö°®ÊÓƵ offer?
    The Career Services Office assists ×ö°®ÊÓƵ students and graduates in in all aspects of the job search, including resume writing, interviewing skills, and developing a job search strategy. Upon completion of their program, graduates may submit a resume to the Career Services Office to be circulated to employers for employment opportunities in their fields. Employers regularly contact us about our graduates. In addition, our Career Services Office contacts employers to develop job leads. A strong relationship with employers exists as a result of our training students to meet the needs of industry for over fifty years. No school can, and ×ö°®ÊÓƵ does not, guarantee to its graduates employment or a specific starting salary.
  14. Where will job opportunities exist?
    Graduates have obtained employment in the local area. However, one of the most exciting aspect of this program is the ability to look nationally for employment opportunities.
  15. What kind of jobs will I be qualified to look for?
    Generally, jobs will exist in the marine/repair service and sales aspect of Marine Industries. The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Handbook predicts that job opportunities in the marine industry will grow at a faster than average rate with the greatest potential in the newer technologies such as marine electronics and electrical systems. Competition for jobs will be keen and requirements will increasingly emphasize and applicant’s training and education. The job best suited to you will depend upon your individual strengths and interests.
  16. Is there any state or federal licensing required in my field?
    No license is required for any of the careers which you will be preparing to enter. The Marine Technology program is not designed to prepare a student for a licensure exam.
  17. Will I be required to wear special clothing?
    Yes. Each student is required to purchase and wear uniform shirts. In addition, proper tan work pants must be worn (no jeans, sweatpants, nylon pants, shorts, tattered, too tight or oversized pants). Students must have purchased their uniforms and be wearing them to class and lab by the end of the third week of classes. Students who have not purchased their uniforms and/or who do not wear their uniforms will not be allowed to attend class after the third week of classes. Also, proper footwear such as good quality work boots are to be worn at all times. No sneakers, sandals or soft type footwear, shorts and tee shirts are allowed at any time.
  18. Where can I purchase a uniform and what kind of uniform do I need?
    Students may purchase items for their uniforms online at Alexander’s Uniforms https://aucorporateapparel.com/. At the site’s homepage, click “×ö°®ÊÓƵ Institute of Technology” from either the icon or the left tab, then select your department from the list. All items are priced to include a 15% discount. If you have any questions, contact Wendy Magnette via email at [email protected] or at 401-654-6500.

    The required uniforms include:
    Navy Sanmar PC54 Shirt w/ Screen Printing $11.00 (S-XL), $13.00 (2X-5X)
    Navy Sanmar PC54LS Shirt w/ Screen Printing $15.00 (S-XL), $17.00 (2X-5X)
    Tan Red Kap P110 Work Pants $19.99 (waist: 28-42), $23.99 (waist: 44-52)

    You may also purchase your uniform items at Alexander’s Uniforms at one of their three locations (recommended if you are unsure of the size): 1) Rhode Island: Marshall’s Plaza, 1 Lambert Lind Highway, Warwick RI 02886, 860-889-7744, 401-654-6500; 2) Connecticut: 77 Salem Turnpike, Norwich, CT 06360, 781-762-1449; 3) Massachusetts: 500 Providence Highway, Norwood MA 02062. A Student ID is needed to ensure you receive your 15% discount at checkout.

  19. Will I be required to wear any special safety equipment?
    Yes, eye and ear protection must be worn when performing special tasks or in areas that require them. Students are responsible for the purchasing of proper eye protection and must be carried on them at all times. Eye protection must be worn at all times in the automotive labs. Ear protection is supplied by the College. Also, as a safety precaution, work shoes or boots must be properly laced and tied at all times, shirts must be worn tucked in pants, and no rings, watches, earrings, nose rings and or dangling jewelry is allowed during lab or shop conditions.
  20. Must I attend classes during the summer 5-week intersession?
    Students who wish to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, without transfer credits from another college, may need to complete two of their core electives during the summer intersession.

Technical Standards

These technical standards set forth by the Automotive/Autobody and Marine Technology Departments, establish the essential qualities considered necessary for students admitted to these programs to achieve the knowledge, skills and competencies to enter these fields. The successful student must possess the following skills and abilities or be able to demonstrate that they can complete the requirements of the program with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of skills and abilities.

Cognitive Ability

  • Ability to obtain a score of 3 or higher on a ten point scale mechanical reasoning test.
  • Ability to read and understand warning labels associated with various hazardous chemicals.
  • Ability to learn, remember and recall detailed information and to use it for problem solving.
  • Ability to deal with materials and problems such as organizing or reorganizing information.
  • Ability to use abstractions in specific concrete situations.
  • Ability to break information into its component parts.
  • Ability to understand spatial relationships.
  • Possession of basic math skills through addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers and fractions using both the U.S. and Metric systems of measurement.
  • Ability to perform tasks by observing demonstrations.
  • Ability to perform tasks by following written instructions.
  • Ability to perform tasks following verbal instructions.
  • Possession of basic keyboarding skills and knowledge of computer programs.

Communications Skills

  • Ability to communicate effectively with faculty and students.
  • Ability to demonstrate and use the knowledge acquired during the classroom training process and in the lab setting.

Adaptive Ability

  • Ability to maintain emotional stability and the maturity necessary to interact with other members of the faculty and students in a responsible manner.

Physical Ability

  • An ability to work in a standing, sitting, squatting, kneeling, or lying position.
  • An ability to lift, lower, push, and pull using both arms and legs.
  • Ability to lift objects weighing up to 35 pounds.
  • Ability to stand on a hard surface, usually concrete, for 4-6 hours at a time.
  • Sufficient upper body strength to carry 20 pounds.
  • Sufficient strength and agility to lift equipment and move large pieces of equipment independently.
  • Sufficient strength and agility to grasp and maintain tension for long periods of time.
  • Ability to wear and tolerate ear plugs, safety glasses and other protective equipment.
  • Ability to perform learned skills, independently, with accuracy and completeness within reasonable time frames in accordance with procedures.

Manual Ability

  • Ability to manipulate wrenches, screwdrivers, and other tools.
  • Sufficient motor function and sensory abilities to participate effectively in the classroom laboratory.
  • Sufficient manual dexterity and motor coordination to coordinate hands, eyes and fingers in the operation of tools and other equipment.

Sensory Ability

  • Visual
    • Visual ability, with or without correction, to enable the student to differentiate automotive tools and instruments, wires, and components.
    • Acute enough to read small print.
    • Acute enough to read small numbers on precision measuring instruments.
  • Auditory
    • Acute enough to hear and understand words spoken by others in an environment with a high level of noise in the background (such as, but not limited to: airguns, engine