Maine Maritime Academy
Acceptance rate
54.1%
2025
Peer median 80.5%
Out-of-state tuition
$31,102
In-state $15,158
Peer median $17,955
Undergraduates
945
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 14 : 1
Graduation rate
51.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 66.0%
Peer median 26.9%
“Peers” are all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) is a distinguished institution located in Castine, Maine, known for its unique focus on maritime education and training. Established in 1941, the academy offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in marine engineering, marine transportation, and environmental science. One of the standout features of MMA is its commitment to hands-on learning experiences, which include training aboard the academy's training ship, the TS State of Maine. Students are equipped with practical skills that prepare them for successful careers in the maritime industry, where many of them find employment with reputable shipping companies and marine agencies shortly after graduation.
The academy fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among students, reflected in its vibrant campus culture. With a student body that is passionate about maritime affairs, MMA hosts various events and activities that promote teamwork and leadership, essential qualities in the maritime field. The institution's motto, "A Tradition of Excellence," encapsulates its dedication to providing quality education and producing well-rounded graduates. Additionally, MMA's picturesque location along the coast of Maine allows students to engage in a range of outdoor activities, including sailing, kayaking, and hiking, contributing to an enriching student life experience. Overall, Maine Maritime Academy stands out as a premier institution for those aspiring to excel in the maritime sector.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Maine Maritime Academy
Maine Maritime Academy has shown some significant trends in its tuition fees, graduation rates, and student retention over the past decade. The tuition for in-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $11,950 in 2014 to $14,562 in 2023, marking a rise of approximately 22%. Out-of-state students have faced an even steeper increase, with tuition growing from $22,770 to $30,043, a staggering increase of around 32%. Such rising costs can potentially deter prospective students, especially those from out of state, highlighting the growing financial burden of higher education.
In terms of academic success, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have fluctuated considerably. The on-time graduation rate saw a decline from approximately 54% in 2013 to 40.8% in 2018, before rebounding to about 58.4% in 2023. This fluctuation raises concerns about the academic support and resources available to students, as well as the factors affecting students' ability to graduate on time.
Retention rates have also displayed a positive trend, with rates climbing from around 74% in 2013 to 86% in 2023. This increase indicates that more students are choosing to continue their education at the institution, which is often a sign of improved student satisfaction and support services.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied, with a notable improvement from 13 students per faculty member in 2013 to 9 in recent years. A lower ratio typically correlates with enhanced academic attention and mentorship, which may further contribute to the improvements seen in retention and graduation rates.
Overall, Maine Maritime Academy is navigating the challenges of rising costs while striving to enhance student success metrics, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where institutions must balance financial sustainability with academic excellence.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, distant
- Nearest major city
- Portland, ME, about 90 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 90 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Craig Johnson (President)
- Phone
- 8004646565
- Address
- 1 Pleasant Street, Castine, ME 04420-0001
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 80.5% · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 48.7%, women 42.5%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Maine Maritime Academy
The admissions data for Maine Maritime Academy reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and rejection statistics over the years. In 2009, the acceptance rates for male and female applicants stood at approximately 66.5% and 70.2%, respectively, highlighting a relatively accessible entry point for students. However, as we progress through the years, a noticeable decline in acceptance rates is observed, particularly for male applicants, who faced a stark drop to around 48.7% in 2020. This trend indicates a tightening of admission standards, possibly in response to increased competition or a strategic shift by the institution.
Interestingly, female acceptance rates show a less dramatic decline, reaching a low of approximately 42.5% in 2020, yet recovering to 54.5% by 2023. This resilience could reflect growing interest and demand for maritime studies among women, an encouraging sign for gender diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Enrollment numbers have also varied, peaking in 2010 with 280 new students but experiencing fluctuations in subsequent years. The rising number of denied applications, particularly evident in 2020 with 788 rejections, suggests that Maine Maritime Academy is becoming increasingly selective. The persistent number of deferred admissions also indicates a trend where students are being offered spots but may choose to delay their entry, reflecting changing attitudes towards higher education amid global uncertainties.
Overall, the data presents a complex landscape of admissions at Maine Maritime Academy, showcasing both the challenges and opportunities facing prospective students in the maritime education sector.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 28% submitted SAT, 7% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT and ACT Performance at Maine Maritime Academy
The data from Maine Maritime Academy over the years reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of admitted students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak of 99% in 2008 and a dip to 43% in 2023. This decline could indicate a shift in admission strategies, where the academy may be increasingly considering holistic factors beyond standardized testing.
In terms of scores, the SAT reading and math sections show an upward trajectory in the 75th percentile scores, increasing from 550 in 2007 to 650 in 2023 for reading. Meanwhile, the math scores have also seen an improvement, with the 75th percentile rising steadily across the years. This suggests that the quality of incoming students in terms of academic preparedness is improving, which could be attributed to enhanced high school curricula or assertive recruitment strategies by the academy.
On the ACT front, the data is less comprehensive, but the scores indicate a similar trend of rising performance among students. The continuous increase in composite and subject-specific scores reflects positively on the academy's academic standards.
Overall, while the percentage of students submitting test scores has decreased, the rising achievement levels among those who do submit suggests that Maine Maritime Academy is attracting more academically capable students, which is a promising indicator for the institution's future. The evolving landscape of college admissions, particularly in the context of the recent discussions around standardized testing, will be crucial for the academy as it balances test score considerations with a broader evaluation of applicants.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 5 in 10
1,365 applicants in 2025, 54.1% admitted
739 admitted 626 not admitted Yield 32.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management · Master's11 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data at Maine Maritime Academy
The graduation data from Maine Maritime Academy for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across different disciplines. In the Marine Science/Merchant Marine Officer program, 32 students earned bachelor's degrees, with one international student, indicating a healthy interest in this sector, which aligns with the growing demand for maritime professionals globally. The program also produced three associate degree graduates, demonstrating its appeal to students seeking quicker entry into the workforce.
In contrast, the Power Plant Technology/Technician program had 30 graduates at the bachelor's level, but no international students, suggesting that this field primarily attracts domestic students. This is particularly relevant considering the ongoing discussions around energy sustainability and the need for skilled technicians in the evolving energy landscape.
Interestingly, International Business/Trade/Commerce produced six master's degree graduates, underscoring a trend towards higher academic qualifications in business disciplines. However, it lacks undergraduate graduates, which could indicate a focus on experienced professionals seeking advanced education rather than traditional undergraduates.
The absence of graduates in various programs at both the master's and doctorate levels may point to a challenge in attracting students to more advanced studies, particularly in interdisciplinary and natural science fields. The low number of international students across most programs suggests a potential area for growth, as global student mobility continues to rise.
Overall, the data highlights a strong emphasis on bachelor’s degrees in maritime and engineering fields, while also revealing opportunities for expansion and enhancement in international student recruitment and advanced degree offerings. This aligns with broader educational trends and the increasing globalization of higher education.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. | $124,997 | |||
| Systems Engineering. | $88,940 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Science/Merchant Marine Officer. | $109,483 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $114,356 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | $58,092 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Plant Technology/Technician. | $89,267 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Sciences. | - | |||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oceanography, Chemical and Physical. | - |
Students
971 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 80:20 · Freshman retention 81.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 661
- First-year undergraduates 223
- Graduate students 26
- Transfers and others 61
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (945)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Maine Maritime Academy 2023
The student body at Maine Maritime Academy in 2023 showcases a diverse demographic landscape, particularly notable in the gender ratios and ethnicity representation among various categories of students.
Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 219 students, with a significant majority of 79.9% being male and 20.1% female. The continued trend of a higher male population is evident across all undergraduate levels. For instance, undergraduate upperclassmen consist of 633 students, with an even higher male representation at 80.9%. This gender disparity raises questions about the inclusivity of maritime and engineering fields, traditionally dominated by males.
In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the majority of students identify as White, comprising a substantial portion of both undergraduate and graduate populations. This reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions often struggle to enhance representation from minority groups. For example, while there are some international students and students from other ethnic backgrounds, their numbers remain relatively small compared to their White counterparts.
The presence of a few graduate students, primarily male, indicates a continued interest in advanced maritime studies, though the overall numbers are modest. This limited representation may suggest a need for the academy to foster a more inclusive environment that attracts a broader array of students, including those from underrepresented groups.
Overall, while Maine Maritime Academy maintains a strong enrollment, the pronounced gender imbalance and the predominance of White students highlight areas for potential growth and improvement in diversity and inclusion initiatives within the academy.
Age Composition at Maine Maritime Academy
The age distribution data from Maine Maritime Academy reveals a strikingly youthful student body, with a significant majority under the age of 24. Notably, the largest cohort consists of students aged 18-19, where undergraduate males comprise 41% of the total male student population, and undergraduate females represent 13% of the female students. This trend mirrors the broader national pattern in higher education, where younger students dominate enrollment figures, particularly in specialized fields such as maritime studies.
Interestingly, the data shows a sharp decline in enrollment as age increases. For instance, only 2% of male undergraduates are aged 22-24, and the numbers dwindle further for older age groups, indicating that fewer mature students are entering this field. This may reflect the rigorous demands of maritime training, which often appeals more to younger individuals embarking on their careers.
Moreover, the representation of female students remains relatively low in comparison to their male counterparts, particularly in undergraduate categories. While there are a few female graduate students, the overall gender disparity highlights a challenge that many maritime academies face in attracting women to this traditionally male-dominated field.
In conclusion, the age and gender composition at Maine Maritime Academy signifies a need for targeted recruitment strategies to diversify the student body and encourage older and female students to pursue maritime careers. As the industry evolves, fostering a more inclusive environment could potentially yield a more balanced and enriched educational experience.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
7 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Maine Maritime Academy
The data regarding international student enrollment at Maine Maritime Academy reveals a fluctuating pattern over the years. In the early years, specifically in 2004, the international student representation among undergraduates was 2.40%, which seems relatively modest. However, as time progressed, a notable decline in the percentage of international undergraduates is evident, with the lowest point occurring in 2008 at just 0.23%.
Interestingly, the graduate program exhibited a stark contrast. In 2004, 50% of graduate students were international, a significant indication of the program’s appeal to global students. However, this percentage has also seen variability, reaching a low of 9.09% in 2007. This inconsistency may suggest that external factors, such as global economic conditions or changes in immigration policies, could be influencing international enrollment trends.
The data also indicates a concerning trend in the later years, with the numbers of international students remaining stagnant at the undergraduate level, and with gaps in graduate data. The challenges faced by international students, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, could play a role in these trends.
Overall, while Maine Maritime Academy has historically attracted a significant number of international students, recent statistics highlight the need for strategic initiatives to enhance its appeal and support for this demographic. As institutions globally continue to adapt to changing landscapes, it is crucial for Maine Maritime Academy to assess and respond to the needs of international students to foster a diverse and enriching environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$43,384
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $31,102
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $15,158
- Room and board
- $12,282
- Graduate tuition
- $15,335
Peer median tuition + room and board $29,573 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 25%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$66.6M
Expenses$55.2M
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Commonwealth Coast Conference · North Atlantic Conference
Commonwealth Coast Conference: football
North Atlantic Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 29 | 20 |
| Soccer | 22 | 24 |
| Football | 40 | - |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 17 | 13 |
| Basketball | 15 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 23 | 5 |
| Wrestling | 10 | 12 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Golf | 13 | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 45 | 17 |
| Soccer | 28 | 26 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 26 | 16 |
| Football | 36 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 19 | 9 |
| Wrestling | 17 | 6 |
| Golf | 15 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Lacrosse | 45 | 19 |
| Soccer | 25 | 21 |
| Swimming | 19 | 16 |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 21 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 15 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of MaineOrono · 35.8 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Colby CollegeWaterville · 44.0 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Bowdoin CollegeBrunswick · 66.5 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Bates CollegeLewiston · 72.0 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
University of New EnglandBiddeford · 101.6 mi
U.S. News #262
-
University of New Hampshire-Main CampusDurham · 137.0 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of Massachusetts-LowellLowell · 174.3 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Dartmouth CollegeHanover · 179.5 mi
U.S. News #12
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 179.5 mi
U.S. News #31
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Maine Maritime Academy:
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Dartmouth College - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Dartmouth College is an Ivy League research university located in Hanover, New Hampshire. It is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and offers a diverse range of programs across various fields.
-
Colby College - With a rank of 25, Colby College is a prestigious liberal arts college in Waterville, Maine. It offers a highly personalized education with a focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary studies.
-
Bowdoin College - Ranked 9th, Bowdoin College is another elite liberal arts institution located in Brunswick, Maine. It is renowned for its academic rigor, beautiful campus, and commitment to the common good.
-
Bates College - Bates College, ranked 24th, is a private liberal arts college in Lewiston, Maine. It emphasizes a strong sense of community and offers a broad liberal arts education with many opportunities for student engagement.
-
University of New Hampshire-Main Campus - This public research university is ranked 115th and is located in Durham, New Hampshire. It offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.9 · all 85 public baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Crime Rates at Maine Maritime Academy
The crime data from Maine Maritime Academy shows notable fluctuations in the crime rates per 1,000 students over the years. In 2023, the average crime rate reached a concerning 20.96 incidents per 1,000 students, marking the highest figure in the recorded data. This sharp increase from the previous years raises alarms about campus safety and the factors contributing to such a rise.
Interestingly, the year 2015 also saw a spike, with a rate of 12.26, but overall, the years following that showed significant variability. For instance, 2017 recorded a low of 4.02 before the rates surged again in subsequent years, especially in 2020 and 2022, which may correlate with the challenges presented by the pandemic and its aftereffects on student behavior and wellbeing.
The subdata reveals specific categories of crimes, with arrests related to firearms, drugs, and alcohol being significant contributors. The increase in these specific crimes could indicate a need for enhanced campus security measures and support systems for students.
As universities nationwide grapple with ensuring student safety, Maine Maritime Academy's data serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining a secure learning environment. Institutions must continually assess their policies and resources to address such trends effectively. For further insights on calculating crime rates, refer to the provided link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Maine Maritime Academy include Kenneth M. Curtis (Former Maine governor and US ambassador to Canada), Herb Mitchell (Actor, director and teacher) and Thomas K. Shannon (Retired U.S. Navy rear admiral).
-
Kenneth M. Curtis 1931–
Former Maine governor and US ambassador to Canada
-
Herb Mitchell 1937–2011
Actor, director and teacher
-
Thomas K. Shannon 1960–
Retired U.S. Navy rear admiral
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.