Program Overview

The United States Merchant Marine Academy, also known as USMMA or Kings Point, is a federal service academy that prepares students to become licensed Merchant Marine officers and leaders in maritime transportation, national security, and the U.S. Armed Forces.

The four-year program leads to a Bachelor of Science degree, a U.S. Coast Guard merchant marine officer license, and an appointment as a commissioned officer in a reserve component of the Armed Forces. Graduates generally qualify as either Third Mates in the deck department or Third Assistant Engineers in the engine department.

Education and Career Pathways

Midshipmen complete a demanding academic program within a structured Regiment of Midshipmen. Degree options include Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, Marine Engineering Systems, Marine Engineering and Shipyard Management, and Maritime Logistics and Security.

An important part of the experience is Sea Year, when midshipmen serve aboard operating U.S.-flag commercial vessels during portions of their sophomore and junior years. This gives students practical experience with vessel operations, navigation, engineering systems, safety, and life at sea before graduation.

Because USMMA is federally supported, graduates accept a service obligation. This generally includes five years of approved maritime or military service, maintaining a merchant marine officer license for at least six years, and serving for at least eight years in a reserve or National Guard component unless fulfilling an approved active-duty option.

Program Information

Program Format

Four-year federal service academy with residential, academic, regimental, and at-sea training.

Credentials

Bachelor of Science degree, U.S. Coast Guard officer license, and military reserve commission.

Who It Serves

Students seeking careers as licensed deck or engineering officers, maritime professionals, or commissioned military officers.

Admissions

Applicants complete a competitive admissions process that includes academic requirements, a congressional nomination, a medical examination, and a candidate fitness assessment. Most applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the Academy’s age and commissioning eligibility requirements.

300 Steamboat Road, Kings Point, NY 11024

Main Phone: 516-726-5800
Admissions: 866-546-4778

Explore USMMA Academics

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.