Merchant Mariner License Option

Prior to the beginning of their first semester, all new Cadets entering TAMMA, regardless of program, attend Orientation Week (O-Week).

Under the guidance of the Commandant, the Corps of Cadets cadet leadership plans and executes O-Week to introduce each new member to the Corps’ routines and traditions. Cadets also learn military bearing and customs, basic seamanship, engineering and nautical science skills. O-Week training includes, military formations, marching to class and meals, team-building exercises, hands-on seamanship training, and other training to enable new members to hit the decks running when the entire Corps returns for the semester.

In addition to minimum requirements associated with courses within USCG-approved program of study and training for international STCW Endorsements, Cadets are required to obtain several training endorsements required by the USCG.

Some of these are Basic Training, Advanced Firefighting, Radar and Automated Radar Plotting Aids, Global Marine Distress System (GMDSS) and Bridge Resource Management.

License Option cadets fall under one of two categories: Deck or Engine.

Deck Cadets are majors in Marine Transportation, Marine Sciences, Marine Biology, or any of the graduate programs. Deck Cadets take courses in Navigation and Seamanship. Upon graduation, deck cadets will have earned their Third Mate Unlimited Tonnage license signifying their ability to work on the bridge of any size ship as a Third Mate.

Engine Cadets are majors in Marine Engineering Technology. Engine Cadets take courses in naval architecture, marine applications of electrical engineering, and thermodynamics. Upon graduation, engine cadets will have earned their Third Assistant Engineer Unlimited Horsepower license signifying their ability to work in the engine room of any size ship as a Third Assistant Engineer.

All license option cadets complete three sea terms. These sea terms are normally completed in the summers. The first and third sea terms are completed on board a training ship operated by Texas A&M Maritime Academy. The second may be either on a training ship or a commercial vessel.

License Option cadets also have the option to join the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP) and seek a commission in the Naval Reserves upon graduation. This program operates alongside the NROTC unit and is expected to participate in NROTC events. More information regarding SSMP can be found under the NROTC header.

The Superintendent may grant an LO Cadet credit for successful completion of coursework, sea service, or the demonstration of practical skills at another State or Federal Maritime Academy.

Applicants who desire to transfer into TAMMA from other State or Federal Maritime Academies or any collegiate service academy must be accepted to Texas A&M University at Galveston and the Texas A&M Maritime Academy and must submit at the time of application to the academy a letter of good standing from the Academy they are transferring from.

Transfer students are encouraged to inquire regarding current policy and provide documentation regarding prior coursework, sea service and conduct records from other Academies.

The Strategic Sealift Officer Force provides warfare qualified Navy Reserve Restricted Line Officers with Unlimited Licenses and military training to activate, operate, and sustain strategic sealift to support Joint Force and Fleet requirements in contested maritime environments.

Todays SSOs are under the sponsorship of the Military Sealift Command bridging the gap between the military and the merchant marine during peace and war. SSOs are civilians being employed 96% of the year in the maritime industry and working only 4% of the year as Naval Officers during peace time.

The Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP) is designed to train and educate highly qualified students to become commissioned officers in the SSOF component of the U.S. Navy Reserve (USNR) while having a civilian maritime career.

Students enrolled in SSMP may be eligible for a semesterly stipend totaling up to $32,000 in exchange for a minimum 8-year commitment in the Navy Reserves.

As a member of the NROTC/SSMP program, students learn firsthand the roles and missions of the Navy team. In addition, the focus on academics, leadership development, and personal fitness prepares students for success in a very dynamic and highly competitive work environment.

For those pursuing an Active Duty commission in the Navy, students participate in rewarding training opportunities with Navy units in both the U.S. and overseas. NROTC students fly with Navy pilots, embark on ships and submarines, and work with Special Operations units.

For those pursuing a Reserve commission in the Navy via the SSMP program, students work to earn their U.S. Merchant Marine License and complete training at sea through the Maritime Academy during Summer Sea Terms. For those looking for a challenging and rewarding experience join NROTC or SSMP at Texas Maritime Academy.

Membership into Victor Company is awarded to veterans,members or prior service members at the start of their time at TAMMA. Cadets who meet the requirements for consideration for off-campus housing may be awarded membership after the successful completion of their first semester.

Cadets who are 25 years of age or older prior to the first day of class of their first semester and those who are married and or residing with dependents in the Galveston County area may be considered for off-campus housing.

International Cadets may pursue the LO education and training required to become Merchant Marine Officers and a degree from Texas A&M University.

However, international Cadets are subject to U.S. immigration laws and may not take the USCG license exams. Instead, international Cadets receive a certificate of completion.