Williams College sponsors a one-semester interdisciplinary program in American Maritime Studies in cooperation with Mystic Seaport Museum. Courses are taught as part of the college's off-campus program in Mystic, Connecticut.
Students apply for either the fall or the spring semester and take four of five courses offered.
Students also take part in a noncredit maritime skills class of their choice, choosing from celestial navigation, sailing, woodcarving, music of the sea, ship smithing, and the outdoor demonstration squad. Students live in cooperative houses at Mystic Seaport and participate in both Atlantic and Pacific Coast field seminars, as well as a two-week offshore research trip as part of their coursework. Interested students may obtain further information and an application through the Dean's Office. An open house is held annually in November. A personal interview is required.