service academies, no congressional recommendation is required for admission to this state institution.
The academy serves approximately 979 undergraduate students who pursue degrees in maritime-related fields including engineering, business and logistics, marine sciences, and marine transportation. Graduates are not obligated to pursue sea-going or military careers after graduation, with many choosing shore-side employment in maritime-related industries or the power generation sector. The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
== History ==
=== Founding and early years (1941–1945) ===
An institution devoted to nautical training in Maine was first proposed in the 1930s by educational and civic leaders throughout the state, led by Senator Ralph Leavitt of Portland. Through efforts of Senator Ralph A. Leavitt and the Portland Propeller Club seeking to establish an institution of nautical science, the Maine Legislature made an appropriation of $15,000 in March 1941. The Maine …
