Marine Engineering Technology
College of Engineering - Cal Poly Solano Campus
Dream of seeing the world? Looking for a lucrative career where your role is vital to day-to-day operations but still has a flexible schedule with lots of time off? The Marine Engineering Technology major prepares cadets for a profitable, rewarding and exciting engineering career both ashore and at sea.
A Career on the Water
Our Marine Engineering Technology degree provides an undergraduate education for marine engineers employed aboard commercial and military vessels. The curriculum combines foundational knowledge in shipboard mechanical and electrical systems with hands-on training in operating and maintaining steam, motor and gas turbine propulsion plants. Cadets complete two sea training periods aboard the Training Ship Golden Bear and one aboard a commercial or military vessel. Graduates are eligible to sit for the U.S. Coast Guard exam to become Third Assistant Engineers, Steam Motor Vessels and Unlimited Horsepower.
Learn by Doing
The Marine Engineering Technology (MET) curriculum features a range of hands-on courses in which cadets design and build projects—such as sunrise alarm clocks, automated fish feeders and more—taking them from initial concept to final demonstration.
Faculty and Staff
Our faculty and staff bring years of industry experience, academic excellence and a passion for Learn by Doing training. With backgrounds in marine engineering, facilities operations, power systems and technical leadership, you’ll prepare for your future through mentorship, teaching and practical training.
180 days of sea time
The program includes three sea training periods aboard Training Ship Golden Bear and Merchant Marine vessels. The program focuses on the operation and maintenance of steam, motor and gas turbine propulsion systems. Students gain expertise in the development, production, maintenance, troubleshooting, and design of essential equipment used both ashore and at sea.