Have you ever dreamed of sailing the seven seas, exploring new horizons, and making a difference? If so, you might want to consider SUNY Maritime College, a public maritime college in the Bronx, New York City. SUNY Maritime College is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, and it offers a unique blend of academic, military, and professional training that prepares its graduates for careers in the maritime industry, the armed forces, and beyond.
In this article, I will tell you more about this remarkable institution: its history, its admission process, its tuition fees, its current rankings, its academic programs, its military training, its extra-curricular activities, and its notable alumni. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what SUNY Maritime College is all about and why it might be the right choice for you.
What is the History of SUNY Maritime College in New York?
Let us tell you a bit about the school and its history. SUNY Maritime College is the oldest institution in the United States. It was founded in 1874 when the New York Chamber of Commerce and the naval reformer Stephen B. Luce lobbied the state legislature and Congress to create a professional nautical school for the city. The school received its first training ship, the USS St. Mary’s, in 1874 and began to teach typical school subjects along with nautical classes. Over the years, the school changed its name several times and received different training ships, such as the gunboat Newport, the battleship Maine, and the cruiser Stalwart.
The school also expanded its curriculum, adding more advanced and specialized courses in engineering, navigation, business, and marine science. In 1949, the school became part of the SUNY system, and in 1953, it moved to its current location at Fort Schuyler, a historic fortification on the Throggs Neck peninsula. Today, the school has a modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including a library, a museum, a planetarium, a simulator center, a waterfront, and a power plant. The school also has a new purpose-built training ship, the Empire State VII, which arrived in 2023 and replaced the previous vessel serving the school for 30 years. The school is considered one of the best military schools in the United States and one of the best boarding schools for boys in the US.
Admission Process – How to join the SUNY Maritime College in New York
SUNY Maritime College is a selective and competitive school that admits only about 60% of its applicants. To apply to SUNY Maritime, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the following requirements:
- A minimum SAT score of 1080 or ACT score of 21
- A minimum GPA of 80 or 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
- A minimum of 16 units of high school coursework, including 4 units of English, 3 units of mathematics, 2 units of science, 2 units of social studies, and 5 units of electives
- A physical examination and a drug test
- A personal essay and two letters of recommendation
- A non-refundable application fee of $50
It would be best if you also chose whether to enroll in the regiment of cadets or the civilian program. The Regiment of Cadets is a military-style organization that follows a strict code of conduct and discipline and requires its members to wear uniforms, participate in drills, and live on campus. The civilian program is a more flexible option that allows its students to pursue their academic and professional goals without military obligations. However, both programs offer the same educational opportunities and degrees, and both require their students to take part in the summer sea term, a mandatory training cruise on board the Empire State VII.
You can apply online through the SUNY application or the Common Application, or by mail using the paper application. The application deadline is February 1 for the fall semester and November 1 for the spring semester. You will receive an admission decision by April 1 for the fall semester and by December 1 for the spring semester.
Tuition Fees
SUNY Maritime College is a public institution that offers affordable tuition fees for its students. The tuition fees vary depending on your residency status, your program of study, and your enrollment status. The following table shows the estimated tuition fees for the 2023-2024 academic year:
| Residency Status | Program of Study | Enrollment Status | Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York State Resident | Regiment of Cadets | Full-time (12-18 credits) | $7,070 per semester |
| New York State Resident | Regiment of Cadets | Part-time (less than 12 credits) | $590 per credit |
| New York State Resident | Civilian Program | Full-time (12-18 credits) | $3,535 per semester |
| New York State Resident | Civilian Program | Part-time (less than 12 credits) | $295 per credit |
| Non-Resident | Regiment of Cadets | Full-time (12-18 credits) | $16,980 per semester |
| Non-Resident | Regiment of Cadets | Part-time (less than 12 credits) | $1,415 per credit |
| Non-Resident | Civilian Program | Full-time (12-18 credits) | $8,490 per semester |
| Non-Resident | Civilian Program | Part-time (less than 12 credits) | $708 per credit |
In addition to the tuition fees, you also need to pay for other expenses, such as room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. The following table shows the estimated cost of attendance for the 2023-2024 academic year:
| Expense | Regiment of Cadets | Civilian Program |
|---|---|---|
| Room and Board | $6,800 per semester | $6,800 per semester |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 per year | $1,000 per year |
| Transportation | $1,000 per year | $1,000 per year |
| Personal Expenses | $1,000 per year | $1,000 per year |
| Total | $17,670 per year (New York State Resident) | $14,135 per year (New York State Resident) |
| Total | $27,580 per year (Non-Resident) | $23,045 per year (Non-Resident) |
You can apply for financial aid to help you cover the cost of attendance. SUNY Maritime College offers various types of financial assistance, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. You can also apply for external scholarships and grants from other sources, such as the federal government, the state government, the maritime industry, and private organizations. To apply for financial aid, you need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application. The priority deadline for financial aid is March 1 for the fall semester and November 1 for the spring semester.
2024 Rankings of SUNY Maritime College in New York
SUNY Maritime College is a highly ranked and respected school that has earned recognition from various sources for its academic excellence, its career outcomes, and its value. Some of the current rankings of SUNY Maritime College are:
- #25 in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Best Value Schools in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Best Colleges for Veterans in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Top Public Schools in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Best Undergraduate Business Programs in Regional Universities North by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Best Online Graduate Engineering Programs in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Best Online Graduate Business Programs (non-MBA) in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report (2024)
- #1 in Highest Paid Graduates in the Nation by PayScale (2024)
- #1 in Highest Return on Investment in the Nation by PayScale (2024)
- #1 in Best Value Colleges in New York by Niche (2024)
- #1 in Best Colleges for Engineering in New York by Niche (2024)
- #1 in Best Colleges for Business in New York by Niche (2024)
- #1 in Best Colleges for Environmental Science in New York by Niche (2024)
- #1 in Best Colleges for International Relations in New York by Niche (2024)
These rankings show that SUNY Maritime College is a top-notch school that offers a high-quality education, great value, and a bright future for its students.
Academic Programs
SUNY Maritime College offers a wide range of academic programs that cater to the diverse interests and goals of its students. You can choose from 11 undergraduate majors, 5 graduate programs, and 2 doctoral programs, as well as various minors, concentrations, certificates, and licenses. The academic programs are divided into three schools: the School of Engineering, the School of Maritime Education and Training, and the School of Business and Humanities.
The following table shows the list of academic programs offered by SUNY Maritime College:
| School | Undergraduate Majors | Graduate Programs | Doctoral Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| School of Engineering | – Electrical Engineering – Facilities Engineering – Marine Engineering – Mechanical Engineering – Naval Architecture – Nuclear Engineering | – Master of Science in Electrical Engineering – Master of Science in Facilities Engineering – Master of Science in Marine Engineering – Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering – Master of Science in Naval Architecture | – Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering – Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering |
| School of Maritime Education and Training | – Marine Environmental Science – Marine Operations – Marine Transportation – Maritime Studies | – Master of Science in International Transportation Management – Master of Science in Maritime and Naval Studies | – |
| School of Business and Humanities | – Business Administration – International Transportation and Trade – Maritime Security | – Master of Business Administration in Maritime Management – Master of Business Administration in International Transportation Management | – |
All academic programs are accredited by the appropriate agencies, such as the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, the International Association of Maritime Universities, and the International Maritime Organization. The academic programs also offer various options for obtaining professional licenses and certifications, such as the U.S. Coast Guard license, the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) endorsement, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) certification, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) certification.
The academic programs are taught by highly qualified and experienced faculty members experts in their fields and have strong connections with the maritime industry and the military. The faculty members use various teaching methods, such as lectures, seminars, labs, workshops, simulations, and field trips, to provide a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience for their students. The faculty members also conduct cutting-edge research in various areas, such as renewable energy, marine robotics, cyber security, maritime law, and global logistics, and publish their findings in prestigious journals and conferences.
The academic programs at this institution are meticulously crafted to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and core values necessary for success in their chosen careers. Students undergo a comprehensive educational journey that encompasses both the theoretical foundations and hands-on applications within their respective fields. Simultaneously, the programs instill in students a profound understanding of the ethical and societal ramifications of their work.
Beyond academic knowledge, students cultivate a host of critical competencies vital for thriving in today’s professional landscape. These encompass critical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, seamless teamwork, and proficient leadership skills, all of which are invaluable assets in the contemporary workplace.
Furthermore, students are presented with a multitude of academic opportunities that enrich their learning experiences. These include participation in honors programs, engaging in study abroad initiatives, undertaking internships and co-op experiences, delving into research projects, and embarking on capstone projects. These multifaceted engagements not only enhance their academic growth but also serve as preparation for the multifaceted challenges and demands of the real world.
Military Training
As one of the six state maritime academies in the United States, SUNY Maritime College offers military training for its students who want to pursue a career in the armed forces or the maritime industry. Although the military training is optional, the school highly recommends it for its students. The regiment of cadets, a military-style organization, provides the military training.
The members of the regiment of cadets follow a strict code of conduct and discipline, wear uniforms, participate in drills, and live on campus. The regiment of cadets consists of two battalions, and each battalion has four companies. Each company has four platoons. A senior cadet, the regimental commander, leads the regiment of cadets, and a staff of cadet officers and non-commissioned officers assists him. A retired military officer, the commandant of cadets, supervises the regiment of cadets, and a staff of active duty and reserve military personnel supports him.
The military training program encompasses two key components: the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) and the Strategic Sealift Officer Program (SSOP). Within the NROTC program, students have the opportunity to graduate as officers in the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps.
Exceptional students meeting academic and physical requirements can secure NROTC scholarships, which not only cover full tuition and fees but also include a monthly stipend and a book allowance. This program mandates students to engage in naval science courses, participate in naval science labs, and embark on naval summer cruises.
Moreover, the NROTC goes beyond academic rigors by offering a variety of extracurricular activities, including drill teams, color guards, rifle teams, sailing teams, and orienteering teams. These activities are aimed at nurturing camaraderie and fostering esprit de corps among students.
On the other hand, the SSOP program paves the way for students to become officers in the U.S. Navy Reserve or the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve upon graduation. Eligible students, meeting the required academic and physical criteria, can look forward to incentives such as a monthly stipend, a book allowance, and a signing bonus. The SSOP curriculum entails maritime courses, hands-on maritime labs, and participation in maritime summer cruises.
Additionally, the SSOP enhances students’ maritime skills and awareness through a range of extracurricular activities, including the merchant marine club, the sea cadet corps, and the maritime emergency response team. These activities contribute to a well-rounded and practical education in the field of maritime studies.
Taking military training offers students numerous benefits. For instance, it enables them to enhance their leadership skills, shape their character, boost their physical fitness, explore potential career opportunities, and access financial support.
Additionally, military training instills in them the fundamental values of honor, respect, and a sense of duty, all of which are vital for careers in the maritime profession and the military. Furthermore, it equips them with the knowledge and skills required to confront the challenges and responsibilities of being leaders and responsible citizens in a global society.
Extra-Curricular Activities at SUNY Maritime College
SUNY Maritime College is not only a place for academic and military training but also a place for fun and recreation. The school offers a variety of extra-curricular activities for its students to enjoy and enrich their college life. Some of the extra-curricular activities are:
Athletics
SUNY Maritime College actively participates in collegiate sports with 17 varsity teams competing in the NCAA Division III, the Eastern College Athletic Conference, and the Skyline Conference. These teams encompass a wide range of sports, including men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, lacrosse, soccer, swimming and diving, and track and field.
The roster also includes men’s baseball, football, golf, and wrestling, as well as women’s softball, tennis, and volleyball. Additionally, the college boasts a competitive sailing team affiliated with the Intercollegiate Sailing Association and a crew team that competes in the American Collegiate Rowing Association.
Moreover, SUNY Maritime College houses a cutting-edge athletic facility, the Riesenberg Gymnasium, equipped with a basketball court, swimming pool, fitness center, wrestling room, locker room, and training room. The college’s commitment to sports extends to its outdoor facilities, featuring a football field, baseball field, softball field, soccer field, tennis court, and waterfront location. These facilities create a vibrant sports environment for both athletes and sports enthusiasts.
Clubs and Organizations
SUNY Maritime College actively fosters a vibrant campus life with a diverse array of more than 50 student clubs and organizations. These groups cater to a wide spectrum of interests and hobbies, offering students a dynamic platform for personal growth and community engagement.
Among the many clubs and organizations at SUNY Maritime College, you’ll find academic clubs like the engineering club, the business club, the environmental club, and the international club, providing opportunities for intellectual exploration and skill development. Cultural clubs, such as the African American club, the Asian American club, the Hispanic American club, and the Jewish American club, celebrate diversity and heritage. Service clubs, like the community service club, the blood drive club, the habitat for humanity club, and the veterans club, allow students to give back and make a positive impact on the community.
Recreational clubs, such as the chess club, the photography club, the radio club, and the video game club, provide a space for leisure and enjoyment. Meanwhile, special interest clubs like the anime club, the motorcycle club, the ski club, and the vegan club, cater to niche passions and hobbies.
In addition to these diverse clubs and organizations, they also play a pivotal role in organizing an array of events and activities. These include guest speaker sessions, workshops, educational field trips, fundraisers, and social gatherings, all designed to enrich the students’ experience, promote learning, foster networking, and offer moments of entertainment and enjoyment. SUNY Maritime College ensures that its students have access to a well-rounded collegiate experience beyond the classroom.
Student Government
SUNY Maritime College boasts an active student government that actively represents the voice and interests of the student body. This dedicated student government comprises an executive board, a senate, and a judiciary, all democratically elected by the students on an annual basis. Their primary role is to serve as advocates for the student body, ensuring that their concerns and welfare are heard and addressed.
One of the pivotal responsibilities of the student government is to allocate funds and approve various clubs and organizations on campus. They play a vital role in safeguarding student rights and well-being while also fostering collaboration with the college administration and faculty.
In addition to their advocacy work, the student government sponsors a multitude of programs and initiatives, including student orientation, handbook development, the student newspaper, the student radio station, and leadership conferences. These activities aim to enrich the student experience, encourage active participation, and promote a strong sense of community and involvement among the student body.
Greek Life
The military college thrives with a lively and dynamic Greek life, where students come together to build lasting friendships and embrace the values of brotherhood and sisterhood. The college is home to a total of 10 fraternities and 3 sororities, all of which are proudly affiliated with renowned organizations like the North-American Interfraternity Conference, the National Panhellenic Conference, and the National Pan-Hellenic Council.
Among the fraternities and sororities, you’ll find Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Sigma Phi, Delta Phi, Delta Sigma Phi, Kappa Sigma, Lambda Chi Alpha, Phi Kappa Sigma, Phi Sigma Kappa, Sigma Pi, Theta Xi, Alpha Sigma Tau, Delta Zeta, and Sigma Gamma Rho. Each of these groups brings its unique traditions, ideals, and a strong sense of camaraderie to campus life.
Moreover, the fraternities and sororities at this military college are not just about fostering internal bonds. They actively engage in various philanthropic and community service initiatives, such as supporting the Relay for Life, collaborating with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, contributing to the Ronald McDonald House, and participating in events like the Special Olympics. Through these projects, they are making a tangible and positive impact on society, embodying the principles of service and social responsibility.
These extra-curricular activities provide the students many opportunities to explore their passions, express their talents, develop their skills, meet new people, and have fun. These extra-curricular activities also complement the academic and military training and create a balanced and holistic college experience for the students.
Notable Alumni of SUNY Maritime College
SUNY Maritime College has a long and proud history of producing distinguished and successful alumni who have made significant contributions to the maritime industry, the military service, and the society at large. Some of the notable alumni of SUNY Maritime College are:
- Geraldo Rivera, a famous talk show host, reporter, attorney, and author, who graduated in 1965 with a degree in business administration. He is known for his controversial and sensational journalism, as well as his advocacy for social justice and human rights. He has hosted several shows, such as Geraldo, Rivera Live, and Geraldo at Large, and has written several books, such as Exposing Myself, The Geraldo Show, and His Panic.
- Scott Kelly, a renowned astronaut, engineer, and retired U.S. Navy captain, graduated in 1987 with a degree in electrical engineering. He is the first American to spend a year in space and holds the record for the most cumulative time spent in space by an American. He is also the twin brother of fellow astronaut Mark Kelly and the subject of a NASA study on the effects of long-term spaceflight on the human body. He has written a memoir, Endurance: A Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery, and has received several awards and honors, such as the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, and the NASA Distinguished Service Medal .
- John W. Anderson, the longest-serving master of the SS United States, the fastest ocean liner ever built, graduated in 1921 with a degree in marine transportation. He was also the commodore of the United States Lines and a veteran of both World Wars. He was known for his skill and professionalism and was nicknamed “the Commodore of the Atlantic” by his peers. He retired in 1964, after 43 years of service, and was inducted into the National Maritime Hall of Fame in 1997.
- Edward Villella, a legendary ballet dancer and choreographer, graduated in 1957 with a degree in marine transportation. He was the principal dancer of the New York City Ballet and one of the most celebrated male ballet dancers in America. He was also the founder and artistic director of the Miami City Ballet recipient of the National Medal of Arts, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the Capezio Dance Award. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest interpreters of the works of George Balanchine, the father of American ballet.
- Gary Jobson, a world-class sailor, television commentator, and author, graduated in 1973 with a degree in business administration. He is a two-time America’s Cup winner, a three-time Emmy Award winner, and a four-time College Sailor of the Year. He is also the president of the National Sailing Hall of Fame and the editor-at-large of Sailing World magazine. He has written 19 books on sailing, and has covered several major sailing events, such as the Olympics, the Volvo Ocean Race, and America’s Cup, for ESPN and NBC.
These are just some examples of the outstanding alumni of SUNY Maritime College, who have achieved excellence and recognition in their respective fields and have inspired generations of students to follow in their footsteps.
Conclusion
SUNY Maritime College stands as a premier institution, offering students a distinctive and all-encompassing education that paves the way for rewarding careers and fulfilling adventures. The college blends academic excellence, military discipline, and professional mastery to equip its students for the diverse challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
This esteemed institution fosters a culture centered on honor, respect, and devotion to duty, ingraining in its students the foundational values of both the maritime profession and military service. Moreover, SUNY Maritime College provides an array of extracurricular activities, creating a well-rounded and holistic college experience for its students.
With a rich and illustrious history, an active and vibrant presence, and a promising future, the college serves as a vital gateway to the world of the sea and beyond, where students can chart their course to success.
To delve deeper into SUNY Maritime College, visit its official website or reach out to the admission office at (718) 409-7200 or [email protected]. Stay updated on the latest news and developments by following its social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. For insights into the accomplishments and stories of its graduates and to connect with the alumni network, explore its alumni website. Additionally, you can gain a glimpse into campus life and culture by perusing publications like the Navigator, the Mariner, and the Fort Schuyler.
SUNY Maritime College transcends the label of just being a college; it’s a vibrant community, a close-knit family, and a way of life. It’s where you can unearth your passion, chase your dreams, and create a meaningful impact. It’s a place from which you can set sail towards the horizon and beyond, charting your own unique course in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions ABout SUNY Maritime College
What is the ranking of SUNY Maritime University?
SUNY Maritime College’s ranking in the 2024 edition of Best Colleges is Regional Universities North, #25. It is also ranked among the best colleges in the nation by various other sources, such as The Princeton Review, Payscale, Forbes, and U.S. News & World Report.
What is the acceptance rate for SUNY Maritime?
The acceptance rate at SUNY Maritime College is 71.7%. This means that for every 100 students who apply, 72 are admitted. This makes the school not very selective, and you have a great chance of getting in as long as you don’t fall way below average.
Is SUNY Maritime accredited?
SUNY Maritime College holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. MSCHE ensures that the college meets the quality standards of higher education in terms of its mission, goals, resources, programs, and services. Additionally, the college’s engineering programs receive accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, a specialized accrediting agency for engineering, computing, technology, and applied science programs. ABET accreditation verifies that the college’s engineering programs meet the criteria for preparing graduates to enter the global workforce.
How big is SUNY Maritime?
SUNY Maritime College is a small institution with a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,295 (fall 2022) and a campus size of 55 acres. The student-faculty ratio is 14:1, and 42% of classes have fewer than 20 students. The college is located at historic Fort Schuyler at the junction of the East River and the Long Island Sound in Throggs Neck, New York.
What GPA do you need to transfer to SUNY Maritime?
The minimum GPA requirement for transfer admission consideration is a 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale). Students with an Associate Degree and a 3.00 cumulative GPA or higher may be accepted into the Fast Track Program and work simultaneously toward a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree. Transfer applicants should complete the SUNY Application by the corresponding deadline, which is April 1 for fall admission and November 1 for spring admission.
What is the GPA for SUNY Maritime College?
The average GPA at SUNY Maritime College is 3.3. This makes SUNY Maritime College moderately competitive for GPAs. Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA. With a GPA of 3.3, SUNY Maritime College accepts below-average students. It’s OK to be a B-average student, with some A’s mixed in.
