Both our Deck and Engineering Hawsepipe programs create an entry-level opportunity for youth and new mariners to follow a guided career pathway by gaining skills and knowledge to become a licensed Maritime Officer. 

The “hawsepipe route” is at its very essence, a maritime career apprenticeship.  In other words, a “hawsepiper” is a ship’s officer who achieved his/her status not by attending a maritime academy but by working their way up the ranks through on-the-job training and periodic USCG required courses that result in higher level endorsements.   

The Marine Engineering Hawsepipe program consists of three (3) courses:

• Entry-Level Wiper Familiarization (online) Course (enrollment begins June 1, 2025)

• QMED -Qualified Member of Engine Room Department (enrollment Fall 2025)

• DDE -Designated Duty Engineer (enrollment Fall 2025)

The Maritime Deck program currently consists of three (2) courses:

• AB -Able-bodied Seafarer (enrollment see Course catalog/Calendar)

• Master/Mate 100-200GRT (enrollment Fall 2025)