§51309. Academic degree

(a) Bachelor's Degree.-

(1) In general.-The Superintendent of the United States Merchant Marine Academy may confer the degree of bachelor of science on an individual who-

(A) has met the conditions prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation; and

(B) if a citizen of the United States, has passed the examination for a merchant marine officer's license.

(2) Effect of physical disqualification.-An individual not allowed to take the examination for a merchant marine officer's license only because of physical disqualification may not be denied a degree for not taking the examination.

(b) Master's Degree.-The Superintendent of the Academy may confer a master's degree on an individual who has met the conditions prescribed by the Secretary. A master's degree program may be funded through non-appropriated funds. To maintain the appropriate academic standards, the program shall be accredited by the appropriate accreditation body. The Secretary may prescribe regulations necessary to administer such a program.

(c) Graduation Not Entitlement To Hold License.-Graduation from the Academy does not entitle an individual to hold a license authorizing service on a merchant vessel.

( Pub. L. 109–304, §8(b), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1574 .)