Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Acceptance rate
94.7%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$23,722
In-state $11,420
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
1,402
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
69.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 79.2%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) is a distinguished institution located in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, that specializes in maritime education and training. Established in 1891, the academy has a rich history and tradition, focusing on preparing students for successful careers in the maritime and transportation industries. One of the defining characteristics of MMA is its unique blend of academic rigor and practical experience. The academy offers a variety of undergraduate programs, including Marine Engineering, Marine Transportation, and Environmental Science, all designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills essential for their future careers.
MMA is renowned for its strong emphasis on leadership and character development, reflected in its motto: "Excellence through Discipline." This commitment to discipline not only fosters a professional environment but also cultivates a sense of camaraderie among students. The academy's campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced simulators, engineering labs, and a training ship, the TS Kennedy, which provides students with invaluable real-world experience at sea. The vibrant campus culture encourages student engagement through various clubs, organizations, and athletic programs, promoting a well-rounded educational experience. Furthermore, graduates from Massachusetts Maritime Academy are highly sought after in the job market, often finding employment in sectors such as shipping, logistics, and government agencies, thanks to their specialized training and strong work ethic.
In summary, Massachusetts Maritime Academy stands out as a premier institution dedicated to maritime education, combining a rigorous academic curriculum with practical training and leadership development, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the maritime industry.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Massachusetts Maritime Academy has experienced notable changes in several key metrics over the past decade. One significant trend is the increase in tuition costs for undergraduate students. For in-state students, tuition rose from approximately $7,127 in 2014 to $10,634 in 2024, marking an increase of about 49%. Meanwhile, out-of-state tuition also saw a substantial rise, growing from $22,033 to $23,910, which is a 9% increase. This upward trend in tuition reflects a broader pattern observed across many U.S. colleges and universities, where rising operational costs and demand for quality education lead to increased financial burdens on students and families.
Graduation rates have shown a positive trajectory, particularly for on-time graduation. The on-time graduation rate rose from approximately 46% in 2014 to 69% in 2023, indicating an improvement in academic outcomes and student support services. This increase not only reflects the effectiveness of the education provided but also contributes to the institution's reputation, making it more attractive to prospective students.
Retention rates, however, present a more mixed picture. The retention rate for undergraduate students decreased from about 89% in 2013 to 78% in 2023. This decline could signal challenges in student satisfaction and engagement, which institutions need to address to maintain enrollment and support student success.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has seen a decline, from 15:1 in 2013 to 12:1 in 2023. This improvement suggests a more personalized educational experience, as smaller class sizes can lead to better interactions between students and faculty, enhancing learning outcomes.
Overall, while the Massachusetts Maritime Academy shows promising improvements in graduation rates and student support, the rising tuition costs and declining retention rates highlight areas that require attention for sustained growth and student satisfaction.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Providence, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD), about 40 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Francis X. McDonald (President)
- Phone
- 5088305000
- Address
- 101 Academy Dr, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532-1803
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 90.6%, women 98.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The admission statistics for Massachusetts Maritime Academy over the years reveal significant trends in both enrollment and acceptance rates for male and female applicants. The male acceptance rate has shown a notable increase, rising from approximately 54.3% in 2009 to an impressive 89.2% in 2023. This upward trajectory suggests that the academy has become more accessible to male applicants over the years, possibly reflecting a strategic shift in recruitment policies or a growing interest in maritime studies among young men.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate, while also increasing, has consistently remained higher than that of male applicants, reaching 90.8% in 2023. This trend is particularly encouraging as it indicates a strong commitment to gender inclusivity within the academy, which aligns with broader educational goals to encourage female participation in fields traditionally dominated by men.
Interestingly, the total number of enrolled students has fluctuated, peaking at 404 in 2020 before slightly declining in subsequent years. The number of denied applicants has also decreased significantly, particularly in recent years, indicating a potential improvement in the academy’s capacity to accommodate students or a larger applicant pool being considered.
Overall, these statistics highlight Massachusetts Maritime Academy's efforts to diversify its student body while responding to the increasing demand for maritime education. As the academy continues to adapt to changing educational landscapes, monitoring these trends will be crucial in assessing its future direction and success in attracting a diverse range of students.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The admission data from Massachusetts Maritime Academy reveals a consistent trend in SAT score submissions over the years, with a high percentage of applicants submitting their scores. Notably, from 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores remained remarkably stable, hovering around 91% to 98%. This indicates a robust commitment among applicants to showcase their academic capabilities, which likely reflects the competitive nature of the admissions process.
The SAT reading and math scores have exhibited a slight fluctuation but overall show a noteworthy improvement over the years. For instance, the 25th percentile reading score has shown an upward trend, increasing from 440 in 2008 to 510 in 2023, while the 75th percentile score has also risen, indicating that successful candidates are becoming increasingly competitive. This trend could be indicative of a broader shift in the academic preparedness of high school students over time, potentially influenced by changes in educational standards and college readiness programs.
Moreover, the consistent submission of ACT scores, while not as prevalent, adds an additional dimension to the admissions landscape. With the rising emphasis on holistic admissions processes in many institutions, the inclusion of various standardized tests allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of student potential.
Overall, the data reflects Massachusetts Maritime Academy's commitment to attracting capable students who demonstrate strong academic performance through standardized testing. The upward trend in SAT scores suggests continuous improvement in applicant quality, aligning with national educational trends where students are increasingly prepared for college-level coursework.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,265 applicants in 2025, 94.7% admitted
1,198 admitted 67 not admitted Yield 38.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's27 (0% international)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's15 (0% international)
- Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other · Master's11 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The graduation data for the Massachusetts Maritime Academy in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various disciplines. Notably, the program in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering leads with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, totaling 73 graduates. This highlights the institution's strength in engineering disciplines, which is critical as the maritime industry continues to evolve with new technologies and environmental considerations.
Interestingly, the International Business/Trade program also reflects a solid performance with 54 bachelor's degrees, indicating a strong interest in global commerce, perhaps influenced by the increasing interconnectedness of economies and the importance of international trade in today's market.
In contrast, specialized fields such as Homeland Security and Engineering/Industrial Management show a significant presence at the master's level, with 17 and 21 graduates, respectively. This suggests a growing recognition of the importance of advanced education in areas critical to national safety and efficient management in engineering sectors, especially in light of recent global challenges and workforce demands.
Furthermore, it is notable that there are no international students graduating from the bachelor's programs, while only one international student graduated with a master's degree in Business Administration. This could indicate potential barriers or a lack of marketing to attract international students, which is essential for institutional diversity and global perspectives in education.
Overall, the data underscores the Massachusetts Maritime Academy's commitment to producing graduates equipped for the maritime and engineering industries while also reflecting broader educational trends in the context of the global economy and workforce needs.
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 | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Engineering. | $93,141 | ||
| Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. | $124,902 | ||
| Energy Systems Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other. | $58,785-$67,708 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | - | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | $66,411 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marine Science/Merchant Marine Officer. | $105,742 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | $111,850 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | $59,807 |
Students
1,488 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 85:15 · Freshman retention 86.8%
- Continuing undergraduates 897
- First-year undergraduates 457
- Graduate students 86
- Transfers and others 48
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,402)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The demographic data from Massachusetts Maritime Academy for the year 2023 reveals significant insights into the student population composition. The undergraduate freshmen represent a substantial group, with 317 students, predominantly male at 86.1%, while females account for only 13.9%. This overwhelming male majority is consistent across other categories, including undergraduate upperclassmen and graduate students, indicating a strong trend in gender representation within the academy.
Notably, the undergraduate upperclassmen population is even larger, comprising 982 students, with a similar male dominance at 86.9%. This consistent pattern raises questions about gender inclusivity in maritime studies and related fields, which have historically been male-dominated. The share of transfer students, although much smaller at 24, also reflects this trend with 75% male representation.
When examining the diversity within these groups, the majority of students are identified as White, with a smaller representation from other ethnic backgrounds, including Asian, Latinx, and Black students. This lack of diversity is a critical area for improvement, as fostering a more inclusive environment could enhance the learning experience and better reflect the broader society.
As institutions strive for equality and representation, Massachusetts Maritime Academy may need to consider initiatives to attract a more diverse student body. This can be achieved through outreach programs, scholarships aimed at underrepresented groups, and promoting a culture that values diversity within maritime professions. Addressing these disparities will not only benefit the academy but also the maritime industry as a whole, which is increasingly recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The age composition of students at Massachusetts Maritime Academy reveals a significant skew towards younger demographics, particularly among undergraduate males and females. The data indicates that the majority of undergraduate male students fall within the 20-21 age range, comprising approximately 63% of total male undergraduates, while the 18-19 age group accounts for a notable 30%. This trend suggests that the academy attracts a youthful cohort, likely due to its specialized programs that cater to recent high school graduates.
In contrast, the proportion of graduate students is markedly lower, with only a handful of individuals in the older age groups. The highest representation among graduate males is in the 22-24 age range, which aligns with the general trend of students pursuing advanced degrees shortly after completing their undergraduate studies. Furthermore, the presence of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, is minimal, indicating that the academy may not be a primary choice for mature students looking to further their education.
The gender distribution highlights another important aspect, with the total number of female students remaining significantly lower than their male counterparts across all age categories. This underrepresentation of female students in maritime and engineering fields is a topic of ongoing discussion, as educational institutions strive to promote diversity and encourage more women to enter these traditionally male-dominated areas.
Overall, the age and gender demographics at Massachusetts Maritime Academy reflect broader trends in higher education, where younger students are more prevalent, and gender disparities continue to challenge equity in fields such as maritime studies.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
21 in 2025 · 0.5% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The data on international student enrollment at Massachusetts Maritime Academy reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has seen a gradual increase, with the percentage of these students rising from a mere 0.22% in 2004 to 0.90% in 2023. This suggests a growing recognition of the institution's value among international students, which could be attributed to the school's specialized programs in maritime studies and its strategic location.
However, the enrollment of international graduate students presents a different picture. The data shows that, while there were fluctuations, the overall number remained relatively low, with the highest percentage recorded being just 4.04% in 2021. This disparity between undergraduate and graduate international student enrollment may reflect the unique nature of maritime education, which is often more attractive to undergraduates seeking hands-on training and career opportunities.
The fluctuations in enrollment numbers can also be linked to global events and changing immigration policies, which have affected students' ability to study abroad. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted international student mobility, as seen in the drop in overall enrollment during 2021.
In conclusion, Massachusetts Maritime Academy has been successful in attracting a small but increasing number of international undergraduate students, while graduate enrollment remains challenging. This trend underscores the importance of continuing to enhance support systems and outreach strategies to further boost the presence of international students, who contribute to the diversity and global perspective of the academic community.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$38,712
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $23,722
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $11,420
- Room and board
- $14,990
- Graduate tuition
- $19,984
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 1% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$112M
Expenses$84.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Massachusetts State College Athletic Association
Massachusetts State College Athletic Association: football, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 125 | - |
| Lacrosse | 54 | 23 |
| Rowing | 41 | 12 |
| Soccer | 29 | 24 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 41 | 12 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Cross Country | 20 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Sailing | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 122 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 61 | 21 |
| Rowing | 46 | 17 |
| Lacrosse | 45 | 17 |
| Soccer | 28 | 23 |
| Cross Country | 22 | 19 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Sailing | - | - |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 96 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 47 | 15 |
| Soccer | 27 | 21 |
| Lacrosse | 34 | 13 |
| Cross Country | 19 | 18 |
| Baseball | 36 | - |
| Rowing | 21 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Sailing | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 40.6 mi
U.S. News #16
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 47.9 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 49.0 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 49.1 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 49.8 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 50.7 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 51.8 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 52.7 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Brandeis UniversityWaltham · 54.2 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Massachusetts Maritime Academy:
-
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth - Ranked 209 in the 2024 US News rankings, UMass Dartmouth is a comprehensive university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Stonehill College - Stonehill College is a prominent liberal arts college ranked 86 in 2024. It focuses on providing a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on ethics and service.
-
Wheaton College (Massachusetts) - This liberal arts college is ranked 75 and is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.
-
Northeastern University - A comprehensive university ranked 53, Northeastern is famous for its co-op program, integrating professional experience with academic study.
-
Boston University - With a rank of 43, Boston University is a large, comprehensive university known for its diverse programs and vibrant urban campus.
-
Harvard University - As one of the most prestigious universities in the world, Harvard is ranked 3 and offers unparalleled academic resources and opportunities.
-
Wellesley College - This highly regarded women's liberal arts college is ranked 4 and is known for its strong emphasis on leadership and social responsibility.
-
Tufts University - Ranked 40, Tufts is recognized for its innovative programs and commitment to global citizenship.
These institutions offer a variety of educational experiences and are excellent choices for students seeking higher education in Massachusetts.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities 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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Massachusetts Maritime Academy
The crime statistics from Massachusetts Maritime Academy over the past decade reveal significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses. The average number of crimes per 1000 students peaked in 2014 at 7.05, which is notable considering the downward trend that followed in subsequent years. By 2017, the rate dropped to 2.06, indicating a period of relative safety. However, the numbers began to climb again in 2019 and 2020, reaching 5.80.
A closer look at the types of offenses shows that arrests related to gun possession and drug-related incidents have been the most prominent issues. Interestingly, the academy saw no recorded incidents of serious crimes such as murder or rape, which is a positive aspect of the campus safety profile. This absence of violent crime could point to effective preventive measures and support systems in place.
The rise and fall of crime rates can be attributed to various factors, including changes in campus security policies, student engagement in safety programs, and even external societal influences. For example, the nationwide conversations about gun control and drug policy may have impacted student behavior and attitudes, thereby affecting crime statistics.
It's essential for the academy to continue monitoring these trends and to implement educational programs focused on responsible behavior, particularly around substance use and personal safety. As these statistics show, maintaining a safe and secure environment is a continuous effort that requires community involvement and proactive measures.
For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Massachusetts Maritime Academy include Richard Phillips (Captain of the MV Maersk Alabama during 2009 hijacking), Christine Griffin (Lawyer, former Massachusetts disability policy official) and Frederick W. Galbraith (Second national commander of the American Legion).
-
Richard Phillips 1955–
Captain of the MV Maersk Alabama during 2009 hijacking
-
Christine Griffin 1950–
Lawyer, former Massachusetts disability policy official
-
Frederick W. Galbraith 1874–1921
Second national commander of the American Legion
-
William J. Flanagan, Jr. 1943–
Navy admiral and former Atlantic Fleet commander
-
Andrew E. Gibson 1922–2001
Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Maritime Affairs
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.