KINGS POINT, N.Y., October 3, 2024 - The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point has been named America’s second Top Public School and third best Overall Regional College North according to the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings.

USMMA’s Engineering Program has tied for # 30 of the Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs that do not offer a doctorate.

In addition, USMMA has tied for 33rd Top Performer for Social Mobility.

Now in its 40th year, U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate nearly 1,500 national colleges and universities on up to 17 measures of academic quality and place an emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students.

“We are very proud to be ranked as one of the best colleges in the Nation,” said Vice Admiral Joanna M. Nunan, Superintendent. “Our rankings reflect the constant pursuit of excellence by our faculty, staff, and midshipmen.”

Upon graduation, each Midshipman receives a Bachelor of Science Degree, a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner License and an Officer’s Commission in the U.S. Military. In exchange for their tuition-free education Kings Point graduates must serve five years on active-duty in the military or work in the maritime industry for five years, with an eight-year commission in any branch of the reserves.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y., educates and graduates merchant mariners and leaders of exemplary character who will serve America’s maritime transportation and defense needs in peace and war. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is administered by the Maritime Administration under the auspices of the Department of Transportation.