Clatsop Community College’s Vessel Operations program offers hands-on training in seamanship, navigation, and maritime safety, preparing students for careers in marine transportation and commercial vessel operation. This program supports Oregon’s Blue Economy by developing a skilled maritime workforce essential to coastal commerce and port activity.
Learn more here: Vessel Operations – Clatsop Community College
Mt. Hood Community College’s Fisheries Technology program equips students with practical skills in fish culture, aquatic habitat management, and field research, supporting sustainable fisheries and ecosystem restoration. This training contributes to Oregon’s Blue Economy by strengthening the workforce in aquaculture, habitat conservation, and resource management linked to coastal and riverine systems.
Learn more here: Fisheries Technology – Mt. Hood Community College
The Aquarium Science Program at Oregon Coast Community College trains students for careers in aquatic animal care, research support, and marine life education, contributing skilled professionals to Oregon’s marine science, aquaculture, and conservation sectors.
Learn more here: Aquarium Science Program – Oregon Coast Community College
Portland Community College’s Welding Technology program prepares students for careers in metal fabrication and industrial manufacturing, offering skills relevant to shipbuilding, marine infrastructure, and other sectors that support Oregon’s coastal and port economies. The program emphasizes hands-on training aligned with regional workforce needs tied to the Blue Economy.
Learn more here: Portland Community College Welding Technology Program
Tillamook Bay Community College’s Manufacturing and Industrial Technology (MIT) program provides training in welding, fabrication, hydraulics, and mechanical systems, equipping students with skills essential to advanced manufacturing and maintenance careers. This program supports Oregon’s Blue Economy by preparing a workforce capable of sustaining marine infrastructure, port operations, and coastal industrial systems.
Learn more here: Manufacturing and Industrial Technology (MIT) program
The Associate of Science in Natural Resources at Tillamook Bay Community College offers foundational coursework in ecology, forestry, and environmental science, preparing students for transfer to four-year programs or entry-level roles in conservation and resource management. This degree aligns with Oregon’s Blue Economy by supporting sustainable stewardship of coastal and estuarine ecosystems that underpin fisheries, tourism, and watershed health.
Learn more here: Associate of Science in Natural Resources
Oregon State University offers comprehensive aquaculture education through various departments, including Microbiology, Biomedical Sciences, Earth Sciences, and Fisheries & Wildlife. Students can pursue degrees such as an MA in Marine Resource Management with a Fisheries & Aquaculture emphasis, or MS and PhD programs in Fisheries focusing on aquaculture. The university also provides resources like the Seafood Research and Education Center and the Coastal Oregon Marine Experiment Station to support research and education in this field.
Learn more here: OSU Aquaculture Program.
Oregon State University’s College of Science offers a Marine Biology option within the Biology major, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in life sciences alongside specialized marine science expertise. A distinctive feature of this program is the opportunity for students to spend a term at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, Oregon, where they engage in hands-on research, fieldwork, and experiential learning in diverse coastal ecosystems. This immersive approach prepares graduates for various marine science careers, including roles such as Shellfish Data Technician, Marine Phytoplankton Specialist, and positions within organizations like NOAA and other governmental agencies.
Learn more here: OSU Marine Science Program.
Oregon State University’s College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences (CEOAS) offers several career training programs designed to equip students with specialized skills in geospatial technologies, water conflict management, and ocean sciences. The Geospatial Internship & Skills Training for Employment and Professional Development (GIS–STEP) program provides participants with expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) through coursework and paid internships, preparing them for careers in Oregon’s high–demand geospatial industry. Additionally, the Graduate Certificate in Water Conflict Management and Transformation delivers in–depth training to enhance capacities in water governance and negotiation, benefiting both students and professionals. Furthermore, the Ocean Science option within the Earth Sciences degree offers interdisciplinary education and hands–on research experiences aboard research vessels like the R/V Oceanus, preparing students for diverse careers in oceanography.
Learn more here: OSU College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.
This resource outlines graduate-level courses and programs available at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center, preparing students for careers in marine science, policy, and technology sectors vital to Oregon’s Blue Economy. The programs support workforce development in fields such as oceanography, marine biology, and sustainable fisheries management.
Learn more here: Courses & Graduate Studies at Hatfield
The Oregon Institute of Marine Biology (OIMB) provides hands-on education, research opportunities, and community engagement centered on marine ecosystems along Oregon’s coast. Its programs support sustainable fisheries, marine biodiversity, and scientific innovation tied to Oregon’s Blue Economy.
Learn more here: Oregon Institute of Marine Biology
Clatsop Community College’s Maritime Science program offers U.S. Coast Guard-approved training in vessel operation, navigation, and safety, preparing students for careers in commercial fishing, marine transportation, and other key sectors of Oregon’s Blue Economy.
Learn more here: Maritime Science – Clatsop Community College
Columbia Pacific (ColPac) Maritime School at Southwestern Oregon Community College in Coos Bay, Oregon, offers US Coast Guard-approved in-person training for mariners seeking professional deck credentials on vessels under 200 gross registered tons. Courses include OUPV (6-pack), Master 100-ton, Upgrade to 200-ton, Apprentice Mate of Towing, Radar Observer Unlimited, and Able Seafarer, all designed to meet USCG exam requirements without additional testing.
These programs support Oregon’s Blue Economy by preparing mariners for careers in fishing, eco-tourism, tug operations, and other coastal industries that rely on skilled vessel operators and crew.
Learn more here: Columbia Pacific (ColPac) Maritime School
The Oregon Coast STEM Hub connects educators, industry, and communities to promote science, technology, engineering, and math learning with a focus on coastal and marine environments. Its programs help develop a locally skilled workforce that supports sustainable industries within Oregon’s Blue Economy.
Learn more here: Oregon Coast STEM Hub
Oregon Coast Community College’s Welding program equips students with technical skills essential for marine fabrication, vessel repair, and infrastructure projects that support port operations and coastal industries within Oregon’s Blue Economy.
Learn more here: Welding – Oregon Coast Community College
The Oregon State Marine Board provides resources for both introductory boating safety courses and continuing education.
Portland Community College’s Welding Technology program prepares students for careers in metal fabrication and industrial manufacturing, offering skills relevant to shipbuilding, marine infrastructure, and other sectors that support Oregon’s coastal and port economies. The program emphasizes hands-on training aligned with regional workforce needs tied to the Blue Economy.
Learn more here: Portland Community College Welding Technology Program