Certified Maritime Research Specialist Program
The Certified Maritime Research Specialist program has been developed to
provide you with the skills you need to conduct more effective and accurate
research into maritime issues. Upon completion of the program, participants
will earn Certified Maritime Research Specialist status and will be entitled
to use the CMRS designation. The classes may be taken in any order, although
most participants will benefit by following the sequence listed. Classes
will be offered throughout the year and in conjunction with special events
presented by the Maritime Research Center.
To achieve accreditation, participants must successfully complete a final
project, which may be an article that meets publication standards, a multimedia
presentation, exhibit, or other activity that demonstrates mastery of the
skills and content presented in the program's classes.
The cost is $15 per credit.
The classes
Introduction to Maritime Research (3 credits)
This class provides an overview and introduction of the maritime research
process, with an emphasis on historical research. Participants will learn
about types of maritime research and reporting, approaches to research,
and developing ideas into research.
Using Secondary Sources in Maritime Research (3 credits)
This class focuses on using documents in maritime research. It will cover
methods for verifying authenticity and accuracy of documents, correct citation
and style for writing, and critical analysis of documents and their contents.
Using Primary Sources in Maritime Research (3 credits)
Primary sources are people and their stories. This class will provide tools
for effective interviewing and gathering oral histories, methods for verifying
facts and opinions, and reporting techniques.
Electronic Strategies in Maritime Research (3 credits)
This class will cover methods for using the internet to gather information
for maritime research, as well as the use of computer programs, such as
databases, to make research and reporting more effective and complete.
Maritime Research Writing Skills (3 credits)
This class will cover the structure and style of various types of maritime
research reporting, including articles and reports.
Electives (2 required, 1 credit each)
From time to time elective classes will be offered that contribute to participants'
knowledge and abilities related to maritime research.
Final project (1 credit)
Participants are required to complete a final project to earn CMRS accreditation.
This may be a publishable article, an exhibit, a report, or some other
project that demonstrates their ability to conduct effective maritime research.
The Maritime Research Academy
Under the umbrella of the Maritime Research Academy you will find a variety
of programs to meet your educational needs and interests. The Acadmy's
programs are being designed using the best contemporary adult curriculum
standards and practices, with comprehensive evaluation processes to ensure
maximum effectiveness.
