Deck Officer Curriculum

Bachelor in Science - Business Administration
Ferris State University

The Great Lakes Maritime Academy prepares future merchant marine officers/business professionals for the challenge of operating commercial ships of unlimited tonnage on the Great Lakes and oceans. Deck officers become pilots and mates, navigating ships through open waters and narrow harbors—ships which may stretch to one thousand feet in length and displace thousands of tons. Deck Officers are also managers of the deck department and responsible for Ships’ Business.

All qualified deck cadets write the U.S. Coast Guard examination for licensing as a Third Mate Great Lakes and Oceans unlimited tonnage and First Class Great Lakes Pilot. Graduates are fully compliant with STCW '95 Certification. In partnership with Ferris State University, the four-year curriculum awards a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

A 225-foot training vessel "State of Michigan" joined the Maritime Academy in August 2002 and provides an excellent hands-on experience for cadets. In the fall of 2003 the Academy moved into a spectacular new facility on Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, in Traverse City, Michigan.

•   Deck Officer Curriculum Guide