A great plan. I came across the general category of maritime education and maritime colleges, while DD was sifting through her college options. USMMA and private maritime academies = great career opportunities and lifestyle options (at sea or port Ops). Do a quick search of 'Best ROI Colleges'....... if memory serves, you will find that Maritime Colleges place 2-3-4 schools in the Top 10 across all US colleges on almost every list.
As to what schools are best, I just did a quick Duck-Duck-go search of "What is the best maritime college" and pulled up too many articles specifically addressed to ranking Maritime Colleges. I liked this one best.
https://www.edumaritime.net/usa/top-maritime-programs, but I am sure you'll find others that are informative.
Finally, the USCG has a program specifically directed to Maritime Academy Grads (MARGAD)
https://www.gocoastguard.com/active...es/programs/maritime-academy-graduate-margrad If your son doesn't "pencil-out" getting into the schools specifically referenced in the program, it would be worth the time to contact USCG re other maritime schools from the standpoint acceptability into the USCG Officer Program and the Coast Guards view of the overall quality of the schools your son is looking at, (maybe just direct this inquiry to the USCGA reps your son deals within their application process).
What a great "under the radar" Plan B. I have wondered why it doesn't pop up more on this board?
Good luck to your son