California State University Maritime Academy
The Vibe Check
California State University Maritime Academy feels like a tight-knit maritime village perched on the Vallejo waterfront, where the rhythm of daily life is set by ship horns on the Carquinez Strait and the structured discipline of cadet life. The campus is small and intensely focused, fostering a culture of teamwork and hands-on problem-solving where everyone knows each other's name and role. It's a place where practical skills and professional readiness are woven into the very fabric of the student experience.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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Academics & Majors
Cal Maritime's academics are laser-focused on the maritime industry, with top programs in Transportation, Business & Marketing, and Engineering that integrate practical sea terms and simulator training. The faculty are industry veterans who provide direct mentorship, and research opportunities are applied, often centered on maritime logistics, marine engineering, and environmental sustainability. The small class sizes ensure hands-on learning and direct feedback, preparing students for immediate entry into specialized fields.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Vallejo
Student life in Vallejo offers access to the waterfront for kayaking and running, plus easy ferry trips to San Francisco for major city attractions. On campus, cadets bond through regimental activities, intramural sports, and social events organized by student clubs. The surrounding Bay Area provides endless options for day trips, from hiking in nearby parks to exploring Napa Valley's wine country.
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Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($94,784):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located on a semi-secure waterfront campus with controlled access to dorms and academic buildings. Vallejo has areas with typical urban concerns, but the campus itself is generally safe with 24/7 security and a strong community watch culture.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Direct pipeline to high-paying maritime industry jobs with licensing built into the degree.
- ✓ Very low in-state tuition combined with strong post-graduation earnings.
- ✓ Small, tight-knit community with direct access to faculty and mentors.
- ✓ Unique hands-on training with access to a training ship and waterfront facilities.
Cons
- ✗ Highly regimented cadet lifestyle may not suit students seeking a traditional liberal arts college experience.
- ✗ Limited major diversity; academic focus is almost exclusively maritime and industry-related.
- ✗ Location in Vallejo requires a commute or ferry for major urban entertainment and dining options.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Cal Maritime is known for being one of six state maritime academies in the U.S. that prepares students for careers in the maritime industry, including shipping, logistics, marine engineering, and port management. It is unique for its 'cadet' model, where students live on campus in a regimented structure and complete a professional sea term aboard the training ship Golden Bear. The academy is highly respected for its licensing programs that allow graduates to immediately serve as licensed officers on commercial vessels.
No, it is not hard to get into based on acceptance rate alone. The acceptance rate is 98.73%, indicating that the primary barrier to entry is not competitive grades or test scores. However, admission does require a specific commitment to the maritime lifestyle, including physical fitness standards and a willingness to adhere to a strict regimented code of conduct. Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest in the industry and the ability to handle the unique demands of cadet life.
Campus life is highly structured and unique, modeled after a professional maritime training environment. Students live in dorms with a 'cadet' ranking system, wear uniforms, and follow a daily schedule that includes academics, physical training, and regimental duties. While rigorous, the community is very close, with strong bonds formed through shared experiences, intramural sports, and social events. Weekends offer more freedom, and students often explore the Bay Area or participate in student-led activities.
Yes, for the right student, the value proposition is excellent. For California residents, the low in-state tuition of $7,672 is a fraction of the national average, and the median 10-year earnings of $94,784 show a strong return on investment. The degree includes professional licensing that leads directly to high-demand, high-wage jobs in the global shipping and logistics industry. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition is still competitive for the specialized, career-focused training and immediate employment prospects provided.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1929
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 891
- In-State Tuition $7,672
- Out-of-State $19,552
- Zip Code 94590
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With in-state tuition under $8,000 and a median 10-year earnings figure of nearly $95,000, the return on investment for California residents is exceptionally high. Even for out-of-state students, the total cost is competitive for specialized training that leads directly to high-paying licenses and careers in the maritime industry. The combination of low net price and strong post-graduation earnings makes this a financially sound choice for those committed to the field.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.