Governance

The United States Merchant Marine Academy is operated by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), one of the modal agencies of the U.S. Department of Transportation.  The Maritime Administration has a general oversight role for the civilian maritime industry, comparable to the role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in overseeing the civilian aviation industry.

Instead, the day-to-day management of the institution is the responsibility of the Superintendent (equivalent to the title of "college president"), who manages the rest of the Academy's Leadership Team.   All staff -- whether senior leaders or lower level officers -- receive management guidance through strategic plans, policy statements, instructions, laws and regulations promulgated by the Academy, MARAD and DOT.  Together, these individuals comprise the Academy's senior staff, who are assisted by capable office personnel in the daily operation of the institution

Oversight

In addition to its leadership structure, the Academy has a number of general oversight and advisory boards that serve to advise the Superintendent, the Maritime Administrator, the Secretary of Transportation, and Congress. In addition to these oversight and advisory organizations, the Academy works closely with the United States Coast Guard, in the administration of the licensed-based portions of the curriculum. The Academy's general education program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, while the Marine Engineering Systems and Shipyard Management programs are also accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).