Regional Maritime University | Tuition Fees and Courses
General Information
Overview
Regional Maritime University (RMU) is a specialized tertiary institution located in Accra, Ghana, with a regional mandate across several West and Central African states. Originally founded as the Ghana Nautical College, the institution was regionalized in 1983, and later granted full university status in October 2007. RMU’s mission focuses on developing maritime professionals who are well‑equipped to meet the challenges of the maritime, shipping, and allied industries.
It emphasizes excellence in nautical science, marine engineering, maritime business, and logistics, while promoting regional cooperation among its founding member states: Ghana, Cameroon, The Gambia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The university also places strong importance on research, safety at sea, and capacity building, offering programs that integrate academic theory with practical, competency‑based maritime training. RMU remains committed to being a center of excellence in maritime education and training, helping to shape human resources for the maritime sector across its member nations and beyond.
Contact Information
Address: Nungua, P.O. GP 1115, Accra, Ghana
Phone Number: (00233) 302 712775; (00233) 302 718225; (00233) 302 714070
Email Address: university.registrar@rmu.edu.gh; marketing@rmu.edu.gh
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Established | 1983 (as Regional Maritime Academy) |
| University Status | October 2007 |
| Type | Regional, Private / Intergovernmental University |
| Founding Member States | Ghana, Cameroon, The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone |
| Motto | Centre of Excellence |
| Campus Location | Urban campus in Accra, Ghana |
Regional Maritime University Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National (Ghana) | Recognized in maritime education, but not typically ranked among general universities |
| Global | Not widely featured in major global university rankings due to its specialized maritime role |
Regional Maritime University Academics
Regional Maritime University Faculties / Departments
- Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Faculty of Maritime Studies
- Faculty of International Business & Humanities
- Vocational Training Centre
- School of Graduate Studies
Regional Maritime University Courses and Programs / Majors
- B.Sc. Nautical Science
- B.Sc. Marine Engineering
- B.Sc. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
- Diploma in Nautical Science
- Diploma in Marine Engineering
- Diploma in Electrical/Electronic Engineering
- B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering
- B.Sc. Computer Engineering
- B.Sc. Computer Science
- B.Sc. Information Technology
- B.Sc. Port & Shipping Administration
- B.Sc. Logistics Management
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Postgraduate programs in shipping, logistics, renewable energy, and maritime operations
Online Learning
Although RMU delivers mainly in‑person training, particularly for its maritime and engineering programmes due to their practical and hands‑on nature, the university leverages digital tools for administrative processes, course registrations, and some theoretical modules. Online learning is used selectively, especially for lectures, seminars, and postgraduate coursework, to support flexible learning for working maritime professionals or remote students.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| SAT / ACT | Not part of its typical admission criteria; RMU uses regional secondary school qualifications like WASSCE / SSSCE |
| GRE | Not generally required; postgraduate admission is based more on academic background and professional experience than on standardized test scores |
Retention and Graduation Rates
RMU does not publicly publish detailed retention or graduation rate statistics. However, as a specialized institution with a strong professional focus and competency-based maritime training, it is likely to maintain relatively stable student progression. Its programme structure, industry linkage, and regulatory alignment with maritime authorities support committed student engagement, offering both academic and practical pathways that encourage graduation.
Regional Maritime University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Regional Maritime University predominantly assesses applicants based on regional secondary school examinations such as WASSCE or SSSCE, rather than international tests such as SAT or ACT. Prospective students must meet credit requirements in core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science, along with relevant electives depending on the course chosen.
Regional Maritime University Acceptance Rate
| Program Level | Approximate Acceptance Rate / Note |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Moderately selective; high interest in maritime/engineering programmes, but capacity is regulated |
| Graduate | Selective, with strong competition from working maritime professionals and regional leaders |
Regional Maritime University Application Requirements
To apply to RMU, candidates must complete a prescribed application form and produce relevant secondary school examination results (such as WASSCE or SSSCE) with required credit passes in core and elective subjects. Mature or professional candidates may be required to submit proof of age and pass an aptitude test. For diploma and degree programmes, RMU expects documentation such as certificates, transcripts, and personal identification. International applicants or those from non-member states may also provide equivalent qualification validation. The application process emphasizes both academic readiness and professionalism suited for maritime careers.
Application Process
- Purchase an RMU E‑Voucher from approved sales centers or online
- Fill out the RMU online application form and upload required academic documents
- Submit transcripts, examination certificates, and identity documents
- For certain programs, sit for any required tests or entrance evaluations
- Wait for application review and selection
- Upon acceptance: complete registration, pay fees, and enroll for classes
Regional Maritime University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| Regular Undergraduate Application | Usually opens annually before September intake |
| Diploma Application | Follows similar schedule to undergraduate programmes |
| Registration / Enrollment | At the start of the academic semester, after admission offers |
Essay Prompt
RMU generally does not require a formal essay or personal statement for its undergraduate admission process. Its focus remains on academic credentials, professional readiness, and meeting credential requirements.
Regional Maritime University Scholarships
The university provides scholarship opportunities for students from its member states and beyond, particularly for maritime professionals, high-performing students, and those needing financial assistance. Scholarships are often tied to professional development and regional development goals, encouraging training of maritime personnel who will contribute to the sub‑region’s maritime industry.
Regional Maritime University Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Program Type | Estimated Cost / Notes |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Degree | 2500-3000 USD |
| Diploma Programmes | 2500-3000 USD |
| Financial Assistance | Scholarships and grants available, especially for students from member states or low‑income backgrounds |
Student Profile and Demographics – Regional Maritime University
Student Demographics
RMU draws students from across its founding member states—Ghana, Cameroon, The Gambia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone—and beyond. The age profile includes young undergraduates fresh from secondary school and more mature students already active in maritime professions. Gender diversity is present but may lean toward male students in technical and engineering maritime programs, while business and administrative courses show more balanced gender distribution. The institution’s regional character means that students come from diverse linguistic, cultural, and national backgrounds, offering a truly multinational campus environment.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
RMU supports low‑income students from its member countries through scholarships, grants, and financial aid that align with its regional development mandate. While publicly available data on students with disabilities is limited, the university’s mission of inclusion and regional capacity building suggests a strong commitment to equity. Access services, mentorship, and targeted support initiatives help ensure that students facing financial or physical barriers can still benefit from maritime education and training.
Student Body
| Metric | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Several thousand (across diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels) |
| International / Regional Students | Significant proportion from founding member states |
| Maritime Professionals / Mature Students | Many enrolled for specialized or competency-based training |
University Diversity
Regional Maritime University’s membership structure inherently promotes diversity: students hail from multiple West and Central African nations, each bringing distinct cultural and academic perspectives. This regional scope fosters cooperative approaches to maritime challenges and encourages cross‑national collaboration. RMU’s curriculum integrates maritime safety, shipping logistics, engineering, and business with a global outlook, preparing graduates to operate in diverse environments and international waters. Its programs and research reflect shared regional priorities—like sustainable shipping, port development, and maritime governance—promoting unity while valuing national contexts. Through this regional integration, RMU strengthens capacity building in the maritime sector and cultivates a generation of professionals who are both technically skilled and regionally conscious.
Average Earnings
Graduates of RMU typically enter high-demand professions in shipping companies, port authorities, ship management firms, and maritime logistics operations. Nautical science graduates often take roles as deck officers, ship captains, or navigational personnel, earning competitive salaries especially when employed by international or national shipping lines. Marine engineering alumni move into technical roles aboard vessels, maritime maintenance, and ship repair industries, often commanding premium compensation for specialized expertise. Business and logistics graduates may find employment in port operations, maritime finance, or supply chain companies. RMU’s regional reputation, combined with strong industry links and competency-based training, helps its alumni secure well-paying positions and career growth in the global maritime industry.
Regional Maritime University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
RMU employs a blend of academic faculty, maritime professionals, engineers, and administrative personnel. The staff includes professors, lecturers, and instructors with experience in maritime navigation, marine engineering, electrical systems, and business studies. Supporting them are administrative officers, research coordinators, student service staff, and technical staff responsible for simulators, laboratories, and training centers.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at RMU include seasoned maritime experts, engineers, and academics with international exposure. The Department of Marine Engineering is led by senior professionals specialized in shipboard technologies, while the Nautical Science department is headed by experienced navigators. The ICT and Computer Engineering staff integrate marine applications into their teaching. Business and logistics faculty bring expertise in shipping economics, port management, and maritime policy. Many professors engage in research on regional maritime safety, logistics efficiency, and sustainable shipping, contributing to the university’s goal of regional capacity building in the maritime sector.
Regional Maritime University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
RMU’s campus in Nungua (Accra) is characterized by its maritime focus, featuring simulators, workshops, and laboratories designed for realistic seafaring training. Student housing is available for some, but many students live in nearby residential areas and commute. Extracurricular life includes maritime clubs, professional societies, safety and rescue training, and student-led activities that foster a strong sense of community. Students benefit from rigorous training, peer support, and exposure to real-world maritime issues, creating a cohesive, purpose-driven campus environment.
Transportation
The Nungua campus is accessible by Accra’s public transport system, including buses and tro‑tro services. Students commuting daily can make use of the urban transport network, while those living nearby often walk or use shared transport. On campus, structured pathways connect academic buildings, labs, training facilities, and student housing. The close proximity to the coast and port areas also enables practical exposure for students in navigational and maritime operations, reinforcing the university’s practical training ethos.