Marine Engineering Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Marine Engineering Technology equips students with the technical expertise and engineering fundamentals needed to support the design, operation, and maintenance of complex marine propulsion and auxiliary systems. This program focuses on practical application within maritime environments, preparing graduates for hands-on roles in shipboard engineering operations and technical support.
- Automation Systems: Study of integrated control systems used to monitor and manage engine functions, machinery performance, and safety protocols on vessels.
- Diesel-Powered Systems: In-depth exploration of diesel engine mechanics, fuel injection, combustion efficiency, and maintenance procedures critical to marine propulsion.
- Electrical Circuits and Systems: Training in the design, analysis, and troubleshooting of electrical networks used in marine power distribution and onboard equipment.
- Engine Performance Analysis: Techniques for evaluating engine efficiency, emissions, power output, and reliability under real-world operating conditions.
- Hydraulics: Understanding fluid power systems used in steering, deck machinery, and engine control mechanisms aboard ships.
- Manufacturing Processes: Exposure to materials, fabrication methods, and precision techniques relevant to marine component production and repair.
- Motor-Powered Systems: Study of electric and hybrid motor applications in marine propulsion, auxiliary drives, and automated systems.
- Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning: Principles and maintenance of climate control systems essential for cargo preservation and crew comfort on maritime vessels.
- Steam-Powered Systems: Examination of steam generation, boiler operation, turbine integration, and safety standards in legacy and specialized marine applications.
- Welding and Fabrication: Hands-on instruction in various welding techniques used for repairing and constructing marine structures and equipment.
Marine Engineering Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Marine Engineering Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Marine Engineering Technology degrees, including Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other and Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 88,660 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other 17-3029 | $77,390 | $47,010 - $114,630 | 64,410 | $37.21 |
| Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians 49-3051 | $54,950 | $35,950 - $78,820 | 24,250 | $26.42 |
Marine Engineering Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $46,590 in South Dakota to $109,120 in District of Columbia—a 134% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Hawaii, and Washington. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 88,660 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Marine Engineering Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 5 institutions offering Marine Engineering Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Marine Engineering Technology is found at California State University Maritime Academy (25 graduates), Texas A & M University, College Station (23 graduates), Northwest School of Wooden Boat Building (NWSWB) (17 graduates), New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) (2 graduates), and Bristol Community College (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 68 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California State University Maritime Academy |
Bachelor's
|
25 | Vallejo, California | Public | csum.edu |
| Texas A & M University |
Bachelor's
|
23 | College Station, Texas | Public | tamu.edu |
| Northwest School of Wooden Boat Building (NWSWB) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
17 | Port Hadlock, Washington | Private | nwswb.edu |
| New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
2 | East Greenwich, Rhode Island | Private | neit.edu |
| Bristol Community College |
Associate's
|
1 | Fall River, Massachusetts | Public | bristolcc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Marine Engineering Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Marine Engineering Technology degree?
Salaries for Marine Engineering Technology graduates vary by role and location. Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other earn a median of $77,390 annually, while Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians earn around $54,950. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $109,120 compared to $46,590 in South Dakota. Approximately 88,660 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Marine Engineering Technology programs?
Currently 5 accredited institutions offer Marine Engineering Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include California State University Maritime Academy (25 graduates), Texas A & M University, College Station (23 graduates), and Northwest School of Wooden Boat Building (NWSWB) (17 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Marine Engineering Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other, Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians, . Related occupations employ approximately 88,660 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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