Marine mechanics are responsible for the repair and maintenance of both personal and commercial watercraft. Choosing which school is the best fit for you can be a challenge, to say the least, but this list makes it a little easier if you have decided you want to pursue a career in marine mechanics.
The following list outlines the best marine mechanic schools in the nation. The top 2 have been recognized on a national level, but the remaining 8 are equally respectable. Each school offers a unique class experience and varying degrees, so be sure to research which one is specifically the best fit for your needs.
In This Article
Boat mechanic schools in the US
1. Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon, WA
Skagit Valley College is one of the best community colleges in the nation, rated number 19 of 50 by Washington Monthly. It is rated number 1 on this list because it offers many different certification programs in marine mechanics, including a marine propulsion and diesel technician certificate, a marine composites technician certificate, and a marine systems electrical technician certificate. Even more impressively, all of these certificates can be completed with only 3 quarters of enrollment, when you are a full-time student. This means you are fast-tracked on the career you want. You will never be bored in these classes, as they cover a variety of topics, ranging from construction, repair, materials, computer aides, business and quality.
2. Alexandria Technical and Community College in Minnesota
Alexandria Technical and Community College was rated 8 of 50 in Washington Monthly’s list of best community colleges in the nation, scoring even higher than the first school on this list. However, they rated second because they only offer one degree, albeit a higher level than Skagit Valley College. Their associate degree in marine and small engine mechanics requires 72 credits, but also has the benefit of covering topics from snowmobiles to motorcycles. Students learn about a variety of topics, including drive systems, engine systems, fuel systems, electrical systems, power equipment and even technical math.
3. CUNY Kingsborough
What makes it great: Large campus size, with a choice of degrees to match.
Address: 2001 Oriental Blvd., Brooklyn, New York 11235
Phone: (718) 265-5343
4. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
What makes it great: Great community with hands-on experience.
Address: 1 Main St., Perkinston, Mississippi 39573
Phone: (601) 928-5211
5. Cape Fear Community College
What makes it great: One of the best community colleges available, set in a great city.
Address: 411 North Front St., Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
Phone: (910) 362-7000
6. Moraine Park Technical College
What makes it great: School-sponsored networking opportunities.
Address: 235 N National Ave., Fond du Lac, Wisconsin 54936
Phone: (920) 924-3207
7. Olympic College
What makes it great: Comprehensive curriculum and outstanding teaching.
Address: 1600 Chester Ave., Bremerton, Washington 98337
Phone: (360) 792-6050
8. Central Georgia Technical College
What makes it great: Many different ways to pay for your education.
Address: 3300 Macon Tech Dr., Macon, Georgia 31206
Phone: (478) 757-3400
9. Minnesota State Community and Technical College
What makes it great: Range of campuses, including the option for online courses.
Address: 1414 College Way Fergus Falls, MN 56537
Phone: 218-736-1500
10. Hennepin Technical College
What makes it great: Career advancement and placement.
Address: 9000 Brooklyn Blvd., Brooklyn Park, Minnesota 55445
Phone: (952) 995-1300
Image credit: Boston Public Library
