Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE)
The BSMarE program offered by the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy is basically designed to prepare PMMA Midshipmen for duties as Marine Engineers aboard ship after graduation.
It is a four-year residency course consisting of a three-year academic studies (1st, 2nd and 4th year) and one year shipboard training (3rd year) on board commercial vessels plying the international sea lanes as engine cadets.
The program sets the first three years of study to contain and surpass the requirement of Regulation III/1 of the STCW Convention (mandatory requirements for certification of engine officers in charge of the watch). The study on the last year is intended to upgrade the midshipman to senior engine officer above the level of Regulation III/1 of the STCW Convention (minimum knowledge required for certification of engine officers of ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 KW or more). The Curriculum has been revised further to comply with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) requirements on General Education components.
Aside from addressing the academic requirements of marine engineers/ midshipmen, the curriculum also provides training for their leadership and discipline. The leadership and discipline training scheme is military oriented. Such approach is necessary considering the uniqueness of the maritime profession that requires the highest degree of leadership, discipline and integrity.