ACADEMIC STANDARDS - Massachusetts Maritime Academy

1 September 2008TO THE CLASS OF 2012:Welcome aboard! You are embarking upon a great adventure, one that will shape the rest of your life. My jobis to see to it that the academic program we offer you maintains and builds upon the reputation for excellencesustained for more than a century by Massachusetts Maritime Academy.This booklet contains the information you will need to structure your academic program for the next fouryears. Become familiar with its contents, and retain it for future reference.The academic programs at Massachusetts Maritime are not easy, nor are they intended to be. In addition totaking a significantly greater course load than is required at the average civilian college, you will face therigors of the sea and the challenges posed by our unique regimental system. Together, they will test your mindand your spirit, and give you opportunities for personal growth you have probably never enjoyed before. If thechallenges are great, so too are the rewards: at the end of your academic program, you, as have MMAgraduates for more than a century before you, will face post-college life uniquely prepared for success, at seaor ashore, in a wide range of exciting and prestigious careers.If you encounter academic problems, be sure to ask for help as soon as possible. Every individual who entersMMA has the potential to become a graduate. The path to graduation may vary but one significant commondenominator is that each student must want to succeed and develop the necessary skills to succeed. We arecommitted to your success. But you have to help us to help you, by taking full advantage of the supportmeasures available to you:-All of your professors schedule office hours, published in their course syllabi, when they areavailable to you for advice and extra help, should you need it. They want to help you.-Tutoring is available in basic skills and specific academic subjects during the academic week. It canbe arranged through the Academic Resources Center (ARC) on the first deck of the library.-Your Company Officer, and cadet officers, can advise and counsel you on academic difficulties.-Should you be designated with a learning disability, ensure that you converse with Ms. Folinoregarding accommodations which can be provided.Finally, both the Registrar, Michael Cuff, and I welcome you to come by our office to discuss any aspect ofyour academic program.Please remember that desire plus effort equals success. Welcome to the Maritime family. I look forward togetting to know each of you. I wish you good luck, and – in the words of the old seafarers’ toast – fair windsand following seas!Captain Bradley K. LimaDean & Vice President of Academic Affairs