About the United States Merchant Marine Academy
The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is one of the five United States Service Academies. It is located in Kings Point, New York, and was established in 1943 to provide education and training for the merchant marine. The academy is operated by the United States Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration.
Academic Programs
- The academy offers undergraduate programs in Engineering, Marine Transportation, Maritime Logistics and Security, and Marine Engineering Systems.
- The academic program combines practical experience with professional classroom instruction and hones the leadership and management skills of cadets.
- Cadets are required to take courses in physical sciences, mathematics, technical subjects, and marine transportation.
Admission Requirements
- The admission process is highly competitive and requires applicants to meet rigorous academic, physical, and character standards.
- Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 unweighted GPA, 1,000 on the SAT or 22 on the ACT, and be a U.S. citizen.
Grading and GPA System
Grading System
- The academy uses a letter grading system with A being the highest and F being the lowest.
- Grades are determined by the quality of coursework, classroom participation, attendance, and other factors as determined by the course instructor.
- Cadets are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to remain in good academic standing.
Transcripts and Course Credits
- Cadets are evaluated on a semester basis, and transcripts include all courses taken, credits earned, and grades received.
- The academy accepts transfer credits from other universities and colleges, as long as the coursework meets the academy's academic standards and requirements.
- Course credits are determined by the number of academic contact hours, with most classes being three credits each.
Conclusion
The United States Merchant Marine Academy offers a unique and challenging academic program that prepares students for careers in the maritime industry. The academy's rigorous curriculum, combined with hands-on training and leadership development, produces graduates who are well-equipped to succeed in the industry. The academy's high academic standards and competitive admission process ensure that only the most qualified candidates are accepted.
