
101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532, USA


Massachusetts Maritime Academy holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness in education. This regional accreditation is a key indicator of academic credibility and is essential for students seeking federal financial aid or planning to transfer credits to other institutions.
The academy's specific maritime programs are also accredited by bodies relevant to their professional standards, including the United States Coast Guard (USCG). This accreditation validates that the academy's training and curriculum conform to industry and regulatory requirements, which is particularly important for students pursuing careers in maritime transportation and related fields.
By maintaining multiple accreditations, Massachusetts Maritime Academy provides assurance to prospective students that the education offered will be recognized both academically and professionally, supporting their ambitions in maritime and technological sectors.
Admission to Massachusetts Maritime Academy requires applicants to have completed a secondary school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records and a college program application as part of the process. Recommendations are a necessary component of the application, while competencies, admission test scores, and other standardized tests are recommended but not mandatory. The institution mandates proof of English proficiency through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for applicable candidates.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy does not have an open admission policy, and dual credit enrollment is not permitted. However, the academy recognizes both prior college credits and Advanced Placement credits, providing some flexibility in transferring credits for qualified students.
The applicant pool includes a higher number of male applicants compared to female applicants, with overall admissions showing a high acceptance rate of approximately 95%, which is significantly above the national average. This acceptance rate reflects Massachusetts Maritime Academy's selective yet accessible admissions process. Although specific standardized test score requirements are not detailed, submitting recommended test scores may strengthen an application.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of the admissions process. The fee is set to cover administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the academy offers waivers for this fee under certain conditions to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder qualified applicants from applying.
Applicants who demonstrate financial need may be eligible to request an application fee waiver. Typically, such waivers are granted based on documented circumstances, such as participation in fee waiver programs or other qualifying criteria. Prospective students interested in obtaining a waiver should check the academy's official admissions guidelines or contact the admissions office directly to understand the application process for waivers and the necessary documentation.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy offers access to ROTC programs through partnerships with cooperating host institutions. While the academy itself does not host distinct ROTC branches on campus, students have the opportunity to participate in ROTC training affiliated with other institutions. This arrangement allows prospective students interested in military training alongside their maritime education to pursue ROTC commissions by enrolling in programs at nearby or partner colleges.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy permits transfer students to enroll during the fall and spring semesters. Prospective transfers may benefit from the institution's acceptance of credits earned through various standardized exams, including CLEP subject and general tests as well as DANTES exams, which facilitates the credit transfer process.
The academy also considers transfer applications from students who provide recommendations, indicating an openness to evaluating applicants beyond standard academic credentials. Additionally, the academy accepts transfer credits from other accredited institutions, supporting a smoother transition for students moving from different colleges or universities.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy offers study abroad opportunities designed to complement its specialized maritime and engineering programs. Students can participate in semester-long exchanges as well as shorter summer and winter term programs. These experiences allow cadets to gain international exposure in maritime industries and related fields, enhancing their professional and cultural understanding.
The academy's study abroad options often focus on partnerships with institutions in maritime hubs around the world. This enables students to engage directly with global shipping operations, port management, and maritime technology innovations outside the United States. The programs include coursework relevant to each student's major, practical training, and opportunities to network with international industry experts.
Additionally, Massachusetts Maritime Academy integrates study abroad with its required sea term training, allowing cadets to apply academic learning in a real-world, international seafaring context. This combination supports both academic advancement and professional development, preparing students for careers in an increasingly global maritime environment.
High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring