Best Ocean Engineering institutions in the US, ranked by earnings
Compare 15 U.S. colleges offering Ocean Engineering by graduate earnings, cost, and outcomes. Federal data across 11 states.
About Ocean Engineering programs
Ocean Engineering is a specialized field within engineering that focuses on the design and construction of watercraft, ocean systems, and structures. This program is ideal for students interested in marine environments and the technologies that support them. Graduates can pursue careers in various sectors, including the merchant navy and offshore industries.
Students in the Ocean Engineering program will gain essential knowledge in marine engineering principles, including the design and operation of vessels and ocean structures. Coursework typically covers topics such as fluid dynamics, structural analysis, and marine systems.
Top 4 institutions, ranked by graduate earnings
Earnings = median 1 year after graduation (College Scorecard, predominant credential).
| # | Institution | Grad earnings (1 yr) | Completions | Grad rate | Net price | Median debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Texas A&M University - College Station College Station, TX Public · Bachelor's degree | $71,788 | 63 | 84% | — | $26,000 |
| 2 | University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI Public · Bachelor's degree | $70,939 | 40 | 73% | — | $25,147 |
| 3 | Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne, FL Private not-for-profit · Bachelor's degree | $68,475 | 36 | 64% | $33,585 | $27,000 |
| 4 | Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton, FL Public · Bachelor's degree | $67,941 | 31 | 63% | — | $29,000 |
Offered across 11 states
The same program, compared state by state. Pick a state for in-state earnings and institutions.
| State | Institutions | Median earnings | Top institution by earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texaslimited | 1 | $71,788 | Texas A&M University - College Station |
| Rhode Islandlimited | 1 | $70,939 | University of Rhode Island |
| Florida | 4 | $68,475 | Florida Institute of Technology |
| Hawaiilimited | 1 | — | — |
| Louisianalimited | 2 | — | — |
| Marylandlimited | 1 | — | — |
| Michiganlimited | 1 | — | — |
| Mississippilimited | 1 | — | — |
| New Hampshirelimited | 1 | — | — |
| New Jerseylimited | 1 | — | — |
| Virginialimited | 1 | — | — |
Careers & outlook
The payoff after graduation: occupation 17-2199, Engineers, All Other, and its national outlook.
The career outlook for Ocean Engineering is promising, with an expected growth rate of 2.1% and approximately 9,300 annual job openings. Graduates typically hold a Bachelor's degree and can earn a median wage of $117,750, making this a lucrative field for aspiring engineers.
Top-paying metros
Related careers
Concentrations within Ocean Engineering
Specializations under this field (NCES CIP 2020).
- Ocean EngineeringCIP 14.2401
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of systems to monitor, control, manipulate and operate within
Common questions
What is Ocean Engineering?+
Ocean Engineering focuses on the design and construction of watercraft, ocean systems, and structures.
What degree do I need for a career in Ocean Engineering?+
A Bachelor's degree is typically required for careers in Ocean Engineering.
What is the job outlook for Ocean Engineering?+
The job outlook is about as fast as average, with a growth rate of 2.1%.
What is the median wage for Ocean Engineering graduates?+
The median wage for Ocean Engineering graduates is $117,750.
Related programs
Other programs in the same field of study.
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