Overview
Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) is Jamaica’s premier maritime-focused tertiary institution, originally founded in 1980 as the Jamaica Maritime Training Institute and renamed CMU in 2017. CMU is known for an applied, industry-driven approach to education in marine science, shipping and logistics, engineering, and transport management. Located at Palisadoes Park on Norman Manley Highway in Kingston, the university serves thousands of students and continues to broaden its regional footprint.
Over the years, CMU has built partnerships with global universities and regional industry stakeholders, supporting diplomas, associate degrees, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral pathways. Its faculties include Engineering & Applied Technology; Marine & Nautical Studies; and Shipping & Logistics. In late 2024, CMU announced plans to open a branch campus in Suriname, reinforcing its longer-term expansion across the Caribbean.
2. General Information
| Name | Caribbean Maritime University |
| Established | 1980 (as Jamaica Maritime Training Institute; became CMU in 2017) |
| Type | Public maritime university |
| Location | Palisadoes Park, Norman Manley Highway, Kingston, Jamaica |
| Website | https://www.cmu.edu.jm |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition can vary by intake, course requirements, and student status (local vs. international). The figures below are estimated and should be confirmed with CMU’s admissions team before you apply.
| Program | Estimated Tuition (per year) |
| Undergraduate (local) | USD 2,500 – 5,000 |
| Undergraduate (international) | USD 7,500 – 10,000 |
| Postgraduate (local) | USD 10,000 – 12,500 |
| Postgraduate (international) | USD 17,500 – 20,000 |
4. Academic Programs
If you’re aiming for careers in maritime operations, engineering, or logistics, CMU’s program mix is designed to connect classroom learning with industry needs. Common options include:
- Diploma in International Shipping & Logistics
- Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Systems Operation & Maintenance
- Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Systems
- Bachelor of Science in Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Master of Science in Engineering Industrial Systems
- Master of Science in Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Doctoral, certificate, and short‑course programs
5. Facilities
CMU’s campus facilities support practical learning across engineering, marine sciences, and logistics. Students typically benefit from:
- Applied laboratories for engineering, marine, and nautical sciences
- Central library and digital resource hub
- Computer labs and campus-wide Wi‑Fi
- Auditoriums and lecture theatres
- Sports and recreation areas
- Health clinic and student counseling
- Career guidance and placement office
- Specialized training centres in maritime safety and logistics
For students comparing options across Jamaica, you may also want to review how other institutions structure practical or applied learning, such as the University of Technology and the University of the West Indies.
6. Accommodation
CMU offers on‑campus housing in student residences near the Palisadoes Park campus. This setup is designed to create a secure, community-oriented environment for students who prefer to stay close to academic and training facilities. Priority is typically given to first-year and international students, with each residence providing essential amenities.
- Single and shared bedrooms
- Common lounges and study rooms
- Meal plans and communal kitchens
- 24/7 security and supervision
- Laundry and recreational spaces
- Residential support staff
7. Contact Information
- Email (General): info@cmu.edu.jm
- Email (Admissions): apply@cmu.edu.jm
- Phone: +1 876‑924‑8150 / +1 876‑618‑2408
- Address: Palisadoes Park, Norman Manley Highway, P.O. Box 8081, Kingston CSO, Jamaica
More Universities in Jamaica
- University of the West Indies
- University of Technology
- Northern Caribbean University
- University of the Commonwealth Caribbean
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