TOP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS- (Download all FAQ PDF)

How long is the program?
Full time students can begin in August and complete the two semester core certificate program in May. To receive the AS degree you would need to attend 4 semesters or 2 years. If you are interested in obtaining an AS degree, it is necessary that you complete an SBCC Assessment. Contact the counseling office at x2285.

How much does it cost?
Community College tuition in California is subsidized by the taxpayers. This fact makes SBCC Marine Technology the most affordable and comprehensive Marine Technology training program in the nation. California residents pay just $20.00 a unit for a class. Most classes are 1-3 units in length. Some classes have lab fees for materials. Non-residents pay $160 per unit and international students pay $166 per unit. See the courses area for more information.

Is commercial diving the only type of training offered?
SBCC Marine Technology has always been a technician training program. While commercial diving training has always been a big part of what we do, the versatility of our training is what helps place graduates and keep them advancing in the marine related workforce. Our classes in welding, boating, seamanship, marine science, emergency medicine, equipment repair, hydraulics, technical diving, SCUBA diving leadership and hyperbarics have been used by students to build/enhance skills and launch non-commercial diving careers in these areas. This diversity is what makes our program stand out among others and leads to the success of our students and graduates.

I heard there is a waiting list and that SBCC's progams are hard to get into- Is this true?
Absolutely not. Misinformation is often put out by recruiters from competing trade schools and counselors. SBCC is an open access taxpayer-funded Community College. We are in the business of providing career education and training for the national and global workforce. We accept all students at SBCC that apply and qualify for admission.

NEXT (Go to Page 2)