Program Overview

Marine Engineering Technology Program

The Marine Engineering Technology major prepares cadets for a profitable, rewarding, and exciting engineering career both ashore and at sea. This undergraduate education is designed for marine engineers employed aboard commercial and military vessels.

Program Overview

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.

Sea Time and Training

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.

Program Details

• The program is offered by the College of Engineering at the Cal Poly Solano Campus.
• The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on training and sea time experience.
• Graduates are eligible to sit for the U.S. Coast Guard exam to become Third Assistant Engineers.
• The program includes a range of hands-on courses and projects, focusing on the operation and maintenance of propulsion systems.
• Faculty and staff have industry experience and provide mentorship, teaching, and practical training.