The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, New York, offers a rigorous curriculum focused on maritime education, preparing midshipmen for careers in the merchant marine, military, and related industries. The academy provides bachelor's degrees in specialized fields, emphasizing hands-on training, leadership development, and technical expertise. All programs include sea training requirements and culminate in a license as a Third Mate or Third Assistant Engineer.
- Department of Marine Transportation: This program covers navigation, ship stability, cargo handling, and maritime law. Courses include Celestial Navigation, Shiphandling, Marine Meteorology, and Cargo Operations, equipping students with skills for deck officer roles on commercial vessels.
- Department of Marine Engineering: Focused on the mechanical aspects of ships, courses include Thermodynamics, Marine Propulsion Systems, Electrical Engineering, and Fluid Mechanics. Students learn to maintain and operate engines, electrical systems, and auxiliary machinery.
- Department of Logistics and Intermodal Transportation: This interdisciplinary program addresses supply chain management, transportation economics, and global logistics. Key courses are International Trade, Port and Terminal Management, Transportation Systems Analysis, and Multimodal Freight Transportation.
- Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering: Emphasizing ship design and construction, it includes Hull Form and Stability, Marine Materials, Structural Analysis, and Computer-Aided Design for ships. Graduates pursue careers in shipbuilding and offshore engineering.
- Department of Marine Engineering Systems: A combined program integrating engineering principles with systems management, covering Control Systems, Marine Diesel Engines, Piping and HVAC Systems, and Engineering Economy.
- General Education and Professional Courses: All midshipmen take core classes in leadership, ethics, physical education, and military science, including Plebe Summer training and regimental life. Advanced electives may include Ocean Engineering, Maritime Security, and Environmental Compliance.
The curriculum totals approximately 147 credit hours over four years, blending classroom instruction, laboratory work, and practical sea experience on academy vessels or commercial ships. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as ensigns in the U.S. Naval Reserve. The academy's focus on STEM disciplines ensures midshipmen are prepared for the evolving demands of the maritime industry, including sustainable shipping and autonomous vessels. With small class sizes and expert faculty, USMMA fosters innovation and professionalism in all academic pursuits.
