FAQs

• Do you need to be an OCC student to take Mariner Career Advancement courses?

No. Courses are open to the public.

• Can you use our courses for MMC Endorsements?

Yes. The MMC course number is co-listed in our catalog.

• Can you use post 9/11 GI Bill or Veterans benefits to pay for these classes?

At this time, we can only accept the GI Bill for for-credit, academic classes. We hope to extend this to our continuing education courses in the future.

• How do you get your captains license?

Get Your Captains License Recorded Webinar from OCC

• What is the biggest obstacle to get your Captains License?

The biggest obstacle is a sea time log that is signed, approved, and verifiable by US Coast Guard. Orange Coast College has partnered with MM-SEAS, a leader in U.S. Coast Guard licensing software to support students' maritime careers. MM-SEAS Expert Access is offered free for 3 years to OCC-credit students and 1 year for noncredit and fee-based students. 

• What are things to consider if you make a career change to become a professional mariner?

You should obtain practical work boat experience, consider your desired position, and the narrow down the type of boat or ship you would like to work aboard.

• What is the generally recommended course at OCC for someone who wants to work on a boat?

Most prospective mariners should consider taking STCW Basic Safety Classes at Orange Coast College.

• How do you apply for scholarships as a prospective MARA student? 

Can you attend at no cost? Yes, with scholarships. Talk to the Financial Aid Office at Orange Coast College for more information.

• How do you enroll as an academic student?

Learn more about how to apply and enroll in classes at Orange Coast College. Professional Mariner and sailing courses are list MARA and Kinesiology.

• Can you take a tour of our campus?

For a general tours of the Waterfront Campus call Customer Service or find out more info. If you have specific program/course questions please call to setup an appointment with a counselor or a professor.

• Will an Orange Coast College degree guarantee you a position as a mariner on a workboat?

You will gain experience to supplement practical work experience from our program. You can receive some professional certifications through our academic program. At this time, we do not have a job placement program paired with this academic degree.

• What is the difference between the certificate and the AA degree programs at OCC?

The AA degree is transferrable to a 4 year university. The vocational certificate shows competence to a potential employer but not enough to transfer.