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Want to Become a Licensed Captain?

The Continuing Education and Workforce Development Department (CEWD) at NMU has teamed up with Wisconsin-based company (and NMU Alumni!), Pathfinder Maritime, to make earning a captain's license simple and easy. 

Completing one of these National Maritime Center (NMC) approved programs is the first step in earning your professional maritime license and advancing your career.


Main Course Offerings: 

  • OUPV/Six-Pack: An Operator of Uninspected Vessel (OUPV) license allows its holder to carry up to six passengers-for-hire. This is the perfect license for fishing guides, sailing tours, and others.
  • 100 Ton Master: A 100 Ton Master license allows you to operate inspected vessels up to 100 Tons while carrying more than six passengers. Use this license to captain ferries, research vessels, small cruise ships, and others.
  • 200 Ton Mate/Master: This course allows you to serve as the Mate or Master (depending on your experience) of a vessel up to 200 Tons.
  • Able Seaman: An Able Seaman credential is a great license for those advancing their maritime careers. This credential allows its holders to serve as a watch-stander, lead the deck department, and a variety of other responsibilities.

Enrollment begins March 2023. Optional in-person training and NMC licensing assistance will be held May 12–13, September 2023, and additional future dates.
This program is approved by the National Maritime Center and can be substituted for NMC required testing. This is a non-credit NMU offering.

We simplify the maritime licensing process so you can own your on-the-water career!

Ask about our Military, veteran, first-responder discounts and tuition assistance.

For more information visit our website, or contact CEWD today! 


March 29, 2023

Primary Contact

Megan Nowicki

Contact Phone Number

906-227-2144

Contact Email

mewales@nmu.edu