The Marine Technology program at ACC is designed for students interested in exciting careers working on the ocean and Great Lakes—from conducting research for universities to working for many industries of the blue economy.
The Marine Technology program offers a wide range of hands-on experiences, from building and operating an underwater robot, to on-water working experiences aboard research vessels. This unique program features coursework in:
- Applied Robotics and ROVs (Remote Operated Vehicles)
- Ocean and Great Lakes Resources, Economics, and Issues
- Science of Underwater Archeology
- Scientific SCUBA Diving
- Working Aboard Ships
- Opportunities for "At-Sea" Internships
- Application of Data Acquisition Technologies at Sea
Located on the shores of Lake Huron in Northeast Michigan, Alpena Community College provides a unique learning opportunity for Marine Technology students. Students at ACC enjoy small class sizes, one-on-one faculty interaction and will have direct access to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary where they will explore maritime history of the Great Lakes and scientific work on the water.
On Water & In the Classroom
The on-water portion of the Marine Technology program takes place at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (NMS). Located on the shores of Lake Huron just a mile from ACC's main campus, Thunder Bay NMS protects one of America's best-preserved and nationally significant collection of shipwrecks.
At Thunder Bay NMS, Marine Tech students explore maritime history, experience practical, hands-on sessions teaching underwater surveying and recording, spend time on Great Lakes research vessels, and even have the option of completing diving courses.
In addition to the on-water component of the program, Marine Tech students experience a variety of hands-on technologies used in commercial and scientific work in the labs on ACC's main campus. 3-D modeling, machine design using CAD software, metal cutting, robotics, and electrical studies are core courses students will experience.
Careers in Marine Technology
The Marine Technology Program at ACC is designed to allow maximum flexibility for entry-level employment in the marine industry. The marine technology industry is a broad field with many branches, and it interrelates widely with other branches of technology, such as resource extraction, environmental management, manufacturing, robotics, communication, and recreation.
Students completing the program will achieve an Associate in Applied Science in Marine Technology and will have access to a variety of jobs and careers such as: ROV Technician, Shipboard Technician, Design Engineer, Hydrographic Surveyor, Marine Electronics Technician, and Marine Research Technician.
Proud to Partner
Alpena Community College is proud to partner with the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and MATE (Marine Advanced Technology Education Center).
TAACCCT Grant
This project was funded (in part, as applicable) by a grant under the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Grant, as implemented by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.
