Program Overview

Great Lakes Maritime Academy is a public maritime academy located at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, Michigan. As the nation’s only freshwater maritime academy, it prepares students to operate commercial vessels on both the Great Lakes and the world’s oceans.

Students combine college academics with maritime laboratories, simulator training, shipboard instruction, and practical sea experience. The Academy focuses on preparing licensed deck and engineering officers while also developing the technical, leadership, and business skills needed to work aboard commercial vessels.

Education and Career Pathways

The Deck Officer program prepares cadets for careers in navigation, piloting, cargo operations, vessel safety, and management of a ship’s deck department. Qualified graduates may sit for the U.S. Coast Guard examinations for a Third Mate license for Great Lakes and Oceans vessels of unlimited tonnage, as well as a First Class Great Lakes Pilot credential.

The Engineering Officer program prepares cadets to operate and maintain propulsion systems, engines, electrical equipment, and supporting machinery. Qualified graduates may sit for the U.S. Coast Guard examination for a Third Assistant Engineer license for steam and motor vessels of any horsepower. 

Cadets complete up to 300 days of practical sea training arranged by the Academy. Training may take place aboard Great Lakes vessels, ocean-going ships, and the Academy’s training ship, allowing students to complete watchstanding duties, shipboard assignments, and required sea projects. 

Program Information

Program Format

Four-year public maritime academy with academic instruction, laboratories, simulators, shipboard training, and up to 300 days of practical sea experience. Accelerated options may be available for students entering with a previous degree or transferable college credits.

Credentials

Bachelor of Science in Maritime Technology and eligibility for a U.S. Coast Guard Third Mate or Third Assistant Engineer license, depending on the selected program and successful completion of all licensing requirements

Who It Serves

Students seeking careers as licensed deck officers, Great Lakes pilots, marine engineers, commercial vessel operators, or shoreside maritime professionals.

Admissions

Applicants must be at least 17 years old, hold a high school diploma or GED, and be U.S. citizens. License-program applicants must also satisfy academic placement standards and meet U.S. Coast Guard medical, physical, and credentialing requirements. Admission is competitive, and additional documentation may be required depending on an applicant’s education and background.

715 East Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686

231-995-1200
Maritime@nmc@edu

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Program information is provided as an educational resource and may change. Please contact the Academy directly for current admissions requirements, service obligations, academic options, costs, and program details.