Question about maritime career

[zoid]

Do I have to go to a 4-year school for an engineer role aboard a ship, or is there an apprenticeship option?

How does one get started as in an ET role on a ship?

Sorry to bother you all if I have, but as a novice, I've found that it never hurts to ask the folks that really know the careers. Much thanks to anyone who would be of help.

Best Regards,
John

[Boatahaulic]

I would think that your career would be more profitable if you went to a 4 year program given the current climate in the industry. They are forcing the hauspipers out by giving academy grads preferential treatment. There are other forums that address that. The hausepiper program has gotton so costly and requires so much time that in my opinion a 4yr. school would be the way to go. Hausepiper by the way is working your way up, sort of an apprenticeship program. Don't get me wrong, I've worked with some excelent Academy grads!

[zoid]

I hate to see programs like that get pushed to the side. I think people have different ways of learning. I did college, but I also did an apprenticeship in my trade. I see the merits to both methods of training, and I have seen the shortcomings to both. I guess it all depends on the individual and how hard they are willing to work to learn. When you say Academy, are your referring to civilian, or military programs?

Thanks for your help. It is appreciated.

[Jay]

You can do either civilian of military programs. Some schools give you the option of graduating with a "dual commission": one as a naval reservist in the MMR program, and one as a Third Engineer in the merchant marine. With Kings Point, this is automatic. With other civilian oriented schools, this is optional (such as Cal Maritime, Mass Maritime, etc).

[zoid]

Hmm. Merchant Marine is out (I'm 40), but there are a few others including one up-state from me (GLAcademy).

Huh, I just read the CFR, and I think I'm already qualified (education-wise) to sit for USCG third engineer (I have a BS in electrical technology). I just don't have the sea time (as in 0-hours). But in all honesty, I'd need to study up on refrigeration. Engine fundamentals are no prob. I was a mechanic for a few years in me-father's auto shop. But that doesn't mean I understand ship engines, or their drive systems... Heck, I've worked with land-based versions of pneumatics and hydraulics for some time. My current college education is ABET accredited. I wonder if there is a two-year option (assuming transfer of credits)?