California Nautical School is established

1929

On June 3, 1929, California State Assembly Bill no. 253 authorized the establishment of the California Nautical School in Tiburon, on the Marin Peninsula north of San Francisco. The school's purpose was "to give practical and theoretical instruction in navigation, seasmanship, steam engines, gas engines, and electricity in order to prepare young men for service as officers in the American merchant marine."

1929

California Nautical School is established

Originally founded in 1929, as the California Nautical School, the academy is now in its ninth decade of education and research in maritime trade and transportation.

1936

U.S. Enacts Merchant Marine Act

In 1936, the U.S. Congress passed the Merchant Marine Act, creating and maintaining an adequate merchant marine to support international and domestic commerce.

1939

Renamed as California Maritime Academy

After a decade in operation, the California Nautical School changes its name and becomes the California Maritime Academy.

1940-1943

World War II brought major changes

In 1940, with war looming, the Academy was relocated to San Francisco, then to Vallejo in the east bay. Training programs were accelerated, and many graduates supported the war effort.

1973

Women admitted to the licensed program

In 1973, California Maritime Academy became the first in the nation to enroll women in its licensed maritime program.

1974

Degree programs and accreditation begin

In 1974, the academy became a four-year college—laying the foundation for accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and marking a major step in its academic development.