{"id":2497,"date":"2020-02-18T20:16:09","date_gmt":"2020-02-18T20:16:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mainemaritime.edu\/academics\/?page_id=2497"},"modified":"2020-02-18T20:16:09","modified_gmt":"2020-02-18T20:16:09","slug":"commercial-shipping-program","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mainemaritime.edu\/academics\/hands-on-education\/field-experience\/commercial-shipping-program\/","title":{"rendered":"Commercial Shipping Program"},"content":{"rendered":"

Commercial Shipping Program<\/h1>\n

This program is for students in the U.S. Coast Guard limited- and unlimited-license majors. \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Overview<\/h3>\n

Commercial shipping is a hands-on educational experience offered as an integral part of all of the USCG license tracks.<\/p>\n

For many, the commercial shipping program is the first chance to experience working within a company setting in the maritime industry. All of the requirements of this program are designed to prepare students for real-life experiences, to challenge them professionally, and to provide opportunities to learn about their chosen profession.<\/p>\n

Maine Maritime Academy was the first state maritime academy to incorporate this popular field experience program into its curriculum. The program now includes extensive preparation to maximize the learning experience in the real world of shipping. Because of the program\u2019s popularity and success, some of the other state academies have adopted it, resulting in increased competition for available opportunities. Accordingly, the availability and timing of assignments cannot be guaranteed. Patience and flexibility are encouraged for students and families with regards to summer schedules.<\/p>\n

The commercial shipping program has stringent requirements and processes; it is vital that students be aware of the requirements of their particular program shortly after arriving on campus.<\/p>\n

Academy and Company Safety Standards<\/h3>\n

Students are expected to maintain the highest safety and professional standards at all times. Although students are not licensed officers during their commercial experience, they are expected to uphold high standards, and comply with all academy, company, and industry policies.<\/p>\n

Commercial Shipping (Limited License Programs)<\/h2>\n

Students who are seeking a 200-, 500- or 1,600-ton USCG mate\u2019s license are required to complete three separate academic courses and gain 240 sea days on appropriately sized vessels meeting both academic and licensing requirements. Students are encouraged to exceed the 60-day minimum requirement each summer on vessels and waters consistent with their specific license goals. Students in this program will gain the ability to work in the maritime industry and hold deckhand, able seaman and mate positions during their experiences. These students major in:<\/p>\n