Curricula

M.S. in Maritime Management

To earn an M.S. in Maritime Management, students will need to complete a set of requirements:

1. Core Courses: Students must successfully complete six core courses, which account for 18 credit hours.
2. Concentration Options:
   • International Logistics Management Concentration: This concentration includes the core courses plus four additional concentration courses for 12 credit hours. In total, students will complete 10 classes, totaling 30 credit hours.
   • Global Logistics and Vessel Operation Concentration: This concentration requires the successful completion of 78 credit hours over a two-year period. This includes:
     • 30 credit hours of online graduate courses:
       • 18 credit hours for the core courses.
       • 12 credit hours for the four courses in the International Logistics Management concentration.
     • 42 credit hours in the Small Vessel Operations undergraduate program, which is conducted on campus.
       • Successful completion of the Small Vessel Operations (SVO) program provides students with the opportunity, if qualified, to sit for the U.S. Coast Guard Mate Less Than 200 Gross Tons license for Near Coastal or Inland waters, depending upon the type of sea service the student accrues.
       • Students must undertake off-site field experience aboard a suitable vessel during the summer between Year 1 and Year 2 as part of the Small Vessel Operations component of the program.

Other important points to note:

• • All graduate level courses are offered online.
  • Each graduate-level course is worth three (3) credit hours and is guaranteed to be offered at least once during the academic year.
  • During each session, at least one graduate level course will be available for students to take.
  • Students are allowed to enroll in a maximum of two graduate level courses per session. 

Core Courses
BA500 – Accounting for Managers
BA501 – Finance for Global Managers
BA503 – Organization Development & Managing Change
BA505 – Strategic Marketing for Managers
BA507 – Economics for Management Decision Making
BA509 – Strategic Management. Capstone course. Graduate students must earn a course grade of a B minus (B-) or better in the capstone course to successfully
complete the graduate program.
BA561 – Special Topics in Maritime Management as needed, not required.

Course Descriptions
BA500 – Accounting for Managers
This course will explore the essential role of accounting in business operations, providing a comprehensive understanding of fundamental accounting principles. Topics covered include capital structure, cost of capital, leverage, strategic planning, budgeting, working capital comprehensive understanding management, risk management, expected net present value, currencies, and other crucial financial concepts. Engage with the material through dynamic lectures, real-world case studies, and financial analysis projects, equipping you with practical financial management skills. 

BA501 – Finance for Global Managers
This course is tailored for operational managers seeking a solid foundation in finance principles. Topics include financial statement analysis, internal control, inventory control and metrics, currency valuations, organizational and capital budgeting, internal cost allocations, methods for managing geographically and organizationally diverse business units, financial ratios, working capital management, debt and equity financing, and other essential accounting and finance concepts. The course format combines engaging lectures, insightful case studies, and challenging financial analysis projects to enhance your global financial decision-making proficiency. 

BA503 – Organization Development & Managing Change
This course enhances supply chain managers’ organizational assessment, intervention, and design skills, particularly in the context of mergers, acquisitions, and consolidations prevalent in today’s business landscape. Students explore the connection between organizational design and effectiveness, the complexities of strategy formulation, the impact of cross-cultural and national factors on organizational behavior and culture, the consequences of change on organizational and workforce development, and the evolving role of leadership in the 21st century. The curriculum integrates group projects and case studies on logistics, maritime management, and operations. 

BA505 – Strategic Marketing for Managers
Explore the practical application of strategic marketing management principles within international business organizations through this course. Emphasis is placed on the pivotal role of supply chain optimization in shaping comprehensive marketing strategies. Delve into the intricate connections between marketing and organizational strategy formulation, brand management, business-to-business relationships, business-to-consumer opportunities, and the current challenges in logistics. Engage with the material through lectures, case studies, and collaborative group projects, gaining a holistic understanding of strategic marketing in a global context. 

BA507 – Economics for Management Decision Making
Economics for Management Decision-Making offers a practical exploration of managerial economics, equipping participants with essential tools and diverse perspectives crucial for effective decision-making. This course covers the allocation of scarce resources, the theory of the firm, forecasting demand, market structure, and pricing decisions. It delves into additional topics, including tariffs, quotas, exchange rate determination, and current issues. Gain valuable insights and analytical skills to navigate the complexities of decision-making in the business environment. 

BA509 – Strategic Management. Capstone course.
This advanced course serves as the culmination of the master’s program, representing the final phase of academic study. Students engage in comprehensive learning and practical application of various models and tools essential for formulating a robust business strategy. The curriculum delves into the theory and application of situational analysis, encompassing the firm’s macro environment, industry dynamics, and internal aspects. Emphasizing the processes and challenges associated with strategy implementation, the capstone course integrates concepts from earlier graduate courses. Going beyond traditional pedagogy, it explores strategic decision-making and business development planning. To successfully earn credit, students are required to attain a grade of B- or higher in this concluding course.

BA561 – Special Topics in Maritime Management as needed, not required.
This course enables students to delve into advanced topics within international business and logistics that may not be covered in the standard curriculum. The specific areas of study will vary based on the student’s interests and the faculty member(s) supervising the project. Approval from the department chair is necessary.

Academic Standards
A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (a “B” average) on the 4.0 scale must be achieved to qualify for the Master of Science in Maritime Management degree. Students whose average falls below 3.0, who receive a grade of “F”, or who earn two or more grades of “C” will be reviewed by the Graduate Faculty Student Review Committee to determine the conditions under which they may be permitted to continue as degree candidates. In addition, graduate students must earn a course grade of a B minus (B-) or better in BA509 to successfully complete the graduate program.

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Concentration: International Logistics Management (ILM)

• To earn a Master of Science in Maritime Management degree, students will complete ten courses, each worth three credit hours: six core courses and four concentration courses. Concentration courses are detailed below.
• The core courses are specified and outlined in the above section.
• Every course is guaranteed to be offered at least once during the academic year.
• During each session, at least one course will be available for students to take.
• Students are permitted to enroll in a maximum of two courses per session.

Courses Required for Concentration
BA511 – Fundamentals of Logistics
BA513 – Integrated International Logistics
BA515 – Port & Transport Terminal Operations
BA517 – Logistics Information Systems

Course Descriptions

BA511 – Fundamentals of Logistics
This course addresses fundamental logistics principles and practical applications involved in transporting commodities, parts, and products (inventory) and the concept of reverse logistics. The fundamentals course specializes in the physical movement of inventory, encompassing processes within warehouses and the transit of goods through various freight transportation modes. Recognizing freight transportation as a significant expenditure in logistics, the curriculum covers key aspects such as information management, financial transactions, administration/documentation, and indispensable tools for inventory analysis associated with the physical movement of goods. 

BA513 – Integrated International Logistics
This course examines the intricacies of integrated international logistics applications and the consequential decisions influencing the functional aspects of an organization, fostering efficiency and effectiveness across the supply chain. Topics of discussion encompass export-import strategy, multinational logistics strategy, Free Trade Zones (FTZs), product classification, Incoterms, international payment processes, a comprehensive review of transportation modes, and considerations for resiliency. Additionally, the course analyzes the impact of government trade policies and public regulations on global logistics operations. Through diverse teaching methods, students will engage with real-world scenarios, enabling them to apply international logistics concepts to their professional careers. 

BA515 – Port & Transport Terminal Operations
This course delves into the pivotal role of ports in the realm of international logistics. Students will study transport terminals and their operational intricacies, encompassing facilities dedicated to ocean containers, bulk cargo, break-bulk handling, intermodal rail and air transport, rail carload operations, packaging facilities, and inland water terminals. 

BA517 – Logistics Information Systems
This course thoroughly explores Logistics Information Systems (LIS) and their pivotal roles in the efficient management of supply chain and logistics processes. Various widely used IS packages will be presented, both as stand-alone tools and integrated solutions for logistics management. The curriculum encompasses current and practical applications and emerging trends in Logistics Information Systems.

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Concentration: Global Logistics & Vessel Operations (GLVO)

The M.S. in Maritime Management program combines two exceptional programs to offer a career path with wide-ranging possibilities. The Global Logistics and Vessel Operations program consists of three components: the Core graduate courses, the International Logistics Management concentration, and the undergraduate Small Vessel Operations program. All three components will be completed simultaneously.

• Candidates are required to successfully finish 78 credit hours, which encompass both graduate and undergraduate coursework over a two-year period.
  • 30 credit hours of online graduate courses:
    • 18 credit hours for the six core courses.
    • 12 credit hours for the four courses in the International Logistics Management concentration.
  • 42 credit hours in the Small Vessel Operations undergraduate program, held on campus.
• Successful completion of the Small Vessel Operations (SVO) program provides students with the opportunity, if qualified, to sit for the U.S. Coast Guard Mate Less Than 200 Gross Tons license for Near Coastal or Inland waters, depending upon the type of sea service the student accrues.
• We recommend that students adhere to the SVO course lineup provided below as closely as possible, as there are prerequisites and courses offered only in the fall or spring semesters that must be considered.
• Students must undertake off-site field experience aboard a suitable vessel during the summer between Year 1 and Year 2 as part of the Small Vessel Operations component of the program.
• All graduate level courses are offered online.
• Every graduate level course is guaranteed to be offered at least once during the academic year.
• During each session, at least one graduate level online course will be available for students to take.
• Students are permitted to enroll in a maximum of two graduate level online courses per session.
• Program can be completed in two calendar years.

The requirements for the online graduate-level courses are outlined in the core courses and International Logistics Management concentration sections provided above. The courses comprising the Small Vessel Operations, on-campus, portion of the program are as follows:

NS101 – Introduction to Nautical Science & Lab
NS103 – Introduction to Vessel Operation & Lab
NS135 – Small Craft Construction & Lab
NS132 – Small Craft Technology & Lab
PE100 – Basic Sailing
PE114 – Ocean Survival
USCG1 – Firefighting
OC101 – Intro to Ocean Science and Lab
NS221 – Meteorology
NS241 – Seamanship & Lab
USCG2 – Firefighting
USCG3 – Lifeboat Exam
CO223 – SVO Coop 1
NS122 – Cargo 1
NS232 – Marine Systems & Lab
NS271 – Terrestrial Navigation I
NS272 – Terrestrial Navigation I Lab
NS262 – Navigation Rules
NS292 – Electronic Navigation I
NS293 – Electronic Navigation Lab
NS298 – Topics in Small Vessel Operations
NS299 – 200 Ton License

Small Vessel Operations Course Descriptions

Fall First Year – 11 Credit Hours
NS101: Introduction to Nautical Science  An introduction to nautical science which covers basic skills that would put the student at the able bodied seaman level of knowledge and prepare the student for the U.S. Coast Guard lifeboat examination. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 2, Lab. 2, Cr.2

NS103: Introduction to Vessel Operations  This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of the Small Vessel Operations. It is designed to run concurrently with NS 101 and augment the seamanship skills taught in that class. The curriculum includes basic nomenclature, small vessel propulsion and handling, safety, and regulations pertinent to the Small Vessel industry. The lab portion of the course is taught by the Waterfront Staff and will provide students with the opportunity to put classroom concepts into safe practice aboard vessels on the water. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 2, Lab 2, Cr. 2.

NS132: Small Craft Technology   Introduction to the fundamentals of the engine and drivetrain typically found aboard small craft. Emphasis is on the high-speed marine diesel engine, the theory of its operation and the understanding of its associated components. Fuel, air, lubrication, and cooling systems are covered. The lab includes the disassembly, inspection, re-assembly and running of a small diesel engine. Rec. 2, Lab. 3, Cr. 3.

NS135: Small Craft Construction  An introduction to the fundamentals of building small craft. While the major focus will be on wooden boat plans and construction, the course will also cover steel, aluminum, and fiberglass construction methods. Vessel construction terminology, the process of lofting, and scantling requirements are discussed. The lab is focused on the building of a 14-foot flat bottomed wooden skiff. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 2, Lab. 2, Cr. 3

PE100: Basic Sailing  Nomenclature, terminology, and sailing techniques for Mercury class boats. Certification in Mercury class boats is possible upon completion of this course. Lab 3, Cr. 0.5

PE114: Ocean Survival  A cold water safety and survival course to familiarize students with the planning and steps necessary to work, recreate, and supervise safety on or around cold water. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Lab 3, Cr. 0.5.

USCG1: Fire Fighting This course satisfies the USCG requirement for both basic and advanced firefighting as outlined in 46FR 10, 46CFR 13, and as per SCTW Table A-VI/3. Successful completion of both USCG1 and USCG2 is required by all students pursuing a USCG license. Rec. 1, Lab 2, Cr. 0

 

Spring First Year – Total Credits 8

OC101: Introduction to Ocean Science  An introduction to the concepts of physical, geological, chemical, and biological ocean science. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 2, Lab. 2, Cr. 3.

NS221: Meteorology  Basic concepts of meteorology with particular emphasis on marine applications. This includes a study of ocean winds and weather with the plotting and analysis of weather maps, weather routing of ships, and familiarization with the various Weather Bureau publications and services. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 3, Cr. 3.

NS241: Seamanship Seamanship refers to a body of practical knowledge that is essential to creative solutions at sea, as well as to routine shipboard operations. Through labs and lectures the student will be acquainted with the information and practical skills associated with rigging, mechanical advantage, deck equipment, hardware, maintenance, and line handling and safety procedures. The course includes material appropriate to functioning as an Able Bodied Seaman, as well as to efficiently organizing the work of others. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Prerequisite: NS101. Rec. 2, Lab 2, Cr. 2.

USCG2 Fire Fighting Live Burn: This course takes place at a live burn facility where students receive practical training in an actual live burn situation including entering a burning building and attacking a fire as part of a firefighting party. Successful completion of both USCG1 and USCG2 is required by all students pursuing a USCG license. Rec. 0, Lab 2, Cr. 0

USCG3 Lifeboat Exam
A comprehensive 70 question multiple choice examination covering the topics of Lifeboats, Liferafts, Safety, and Survival at Sea.  Maine Maritime Academy is authorized by the United States Coast Guard to administer this examination.  This examination normally is scheduled early in the second semester of the student’s first year.  Successful passing of the lifeboat examination is a prerequisite for CR103, First Year Cruise and a USCG requirement for obtaining a merchant mariner credential.  Prerequisites: NS101.  Cr. 0.

 

Summer First Year – Total Credits 3

CO223 : SVO/VOT Cooperative Work Exp I  A minimum of 60 days of supervised work experience aboard an appropriate vessel. This cooperative work experience is intended to provide the student with an entry level deck position for training and sea service days toward a USCG 200 GT Mate/Near Coastal license. Students are encouraged to pursue vessel opportunities aligned with their particular interests. An extensive written sea project is required. (A total of 120 qualifying sea service days are required for the USCG 200 GT Mate/Near Coastal license). Prerequisite: HC111, NS101, NS103, PE114, NS132, NS135, NS241, USCG1 and USCG2 or approval of the SVO/VOT coordinator and drug free certification required; pass the USCG Lifeboatman Exam. Cr. 3.

 

Fall Second Year – Total Credits 10

NS122: Cargo I  A study of vessel cargo and the role of the ship in integrated transportation systems. At the introductory level topics include cargo responsibility, fundamental objectives of good stowage, and a survey of cargo gear. The role of the ship’s officer is examined and related to various types of vessels and cargo operations. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 3, Cr. 3.

NS232: Marine Systems & Lab Electrical and mechanical system fundamentals, associated with yachts and small commercial vessels, are examined. These include DC electrical theory and installation standards, storage batteries, multi-meter use, AC electricity, pumping systems, refrigeration, reverse-osmosis water makers and hydraulics, ABYC standards and CFR requirements are covered. The lab explores DC circuits, wiring standards, systems operation, installation, and maintenance. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Prerequisite: NS132. Rec. 2, Lab 2, Cr. 3.

NS271: Terrestrial Navigation I  An introductory navigation course intended for all students pursuing a license for any tonnage class. The rudiments of navigation are covered in lecture format. Topics include charts, plotting tools and techniques, dead reckoning, gyro and magnetic compasses and their errors, fixes and running fixes, set and drift, tidal and current calculations, navigation publications, and chart correcting and piloting with electronic navigation instruments. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Rec. 3, Cr. 3.

NS272: Terrestrial Navigation Lab  Weekly exercises aboard Academy watercraft and in the Academy’s Bridge and Navigation Simulator allow the student to practice the skills taught in NS271. This course supports the marine license program requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). The course may have embedded assessment requirements that must be completed in addition to the class requirements. Prerequisite: Must be taken concurrently with NS271. Lab 3, Cr. 1.

 

Spring Second Year- Total Credits 10

NS262: Navigation Rules  The International and Inland Rules of the Road for preventing collisions at sea. This includes application, definitions, lights, and shapes, steering and sailing rules with sound signals for vessels in meeting, crossing, and overtaking situations, and conduct of vessels in restricted visibility. Rec. 3, Cr. 3

NS292: Electronic Navigation  Introduction to Electronic Navigation. Instruction covers the theory and practical application of electromagnetic and acoustic wave propagation as it pertains to modern electronic navigation equipment. Systems discussed include but are not limited to Marine RADAR, Marine Compass, Echo Sounders, Speed Logs, Satellite Navigation Systems, Marine Communication Systems, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). This course supports the marine license requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). Prerequisites: NS271 and NS 272. Co-requisite: NS293. Rec.3, Cr. 3.

NS293: Electronic Navigation Lab Weekly exercises in the RADAR simulator allow the student to practice and develop skills in interpreting RADAR information and using RADAR for collision avoidance, as well as applying theory taught in NS292. Successful completion of this course results in a USCG Radar Observer’s Certificate. This course supports the marine license requirements to meet the Standards for Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). Co-requisite: NS292. Lab 1, Cr. 1

NS298: Topics in Small Vessel Operations   A capstone course intended to further prepare 200-ton license candidates for positions of responsibility aboard a limited tonnage vessel. This course will expand the student’s knowledge of vessel design, construction, stability, emergency maneuvers and operations. Attention is also given to crew management, regulatory issues, and the variety of decisions that a professional mariner may expect to face. Prerequisite: NS241. Rec. 2, Cr. 2.

NS299 : 200 Ton License Seminar  Course to assist senior license candidates in preparing to write the appropriate USCG license examination. Sample tests will be used, test-taking techniques studied, and study guides reviewed. The use of CFRs and other references will be covered. Rec. 2, Cr. 1.