Cert in Marine Transportation

The Professional Mariner certificate introduces students to the maritime industry. Topics range from career paths and the sea environment to seamanship, safety afloat, handling boats, navigation and upkeep. Most courses add hands-on practical exercises to the lectures. Swimming and treading water are prerequisites, and facility fees apply. Boating experience is helpful but not required. Students also learn which Coast Guard licenses relate to maritime careers. In the college catalog this program is listed as eligible for financial aid. Orange Coast College publishes the requirements in its 2026-2027 academic catalog, which sets out the required courses, the intended learning outcomes and a suggested sequence of study. A counselor can help each student map out the semesters.