United States Naval Academy

The United States Naval Academy (USNA), located in Annapolis, Maryland, is a prestigious federal service academy established in 1845. It is dedicated to developing young men and women morally, mentally, and physically to become professional officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as Ensigns in the Navy or Second Lieutenants in the Marine Corps, committing to a minimum of five years of active duty.

Academics

The USNA offers a rigorous academic program with 26 majors, primarily focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields to meet the Navy's technical needs. Midshipmen can choose from various engineering disciplines like Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, and Naval Architecture, alongside subjects in Computer Science, Cyber Operations, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. The curriculum also includes humanities and social sciences such as English, History, Political Science, and Foreign Area Studies, all complemented by a core curriculum in leadership, seamanship, and technical subjects. All programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), with specialized accreditations from ABET for engineering and computing programs.

International Students

The Naval Academy welcomes a select number of international students each year, typically 10-18, with a maximum of 60 international students attending at any given time. International applicants must be nominated by their home country's government, meet specific educational, physical, and medical qualifications, and be proficient in English. Upon graduation, international midshipmen do not commission into the U.S. Armed Forces but return to serve their home countries. While the Naval Academy's student body is diverse geographically, with students from 48 states, international students currently represent about 1% of the total student population. An International Midshipmen Club is available to support cultural integration.

Campus & Location

The USNA's 338-acre campus, known as "the Yard," is a National Historic Landmark situated in Annapolis, Maryland, at the confluence of the Severn River and Chesapeake Bay. Annapolis offers a vibrant city life with historic sites, dining, and shopping, and the campus itself features iconic landmarks like Bancroft Hall, the largest college dormitory in the world, and the Naval Academy Chapel. The city is approximately 33 miles east of Washington, D.C., and 26 miles southeast of Baltimore, providing access to major metropolitan areas. Visitors can take guided tours through the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center or explore the campus independently.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy are commissioned as officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps, serving a minimum of five years. This commitment leads to diverse military career paths, including roles as naval aviators, surface warfare officers, submarine officers, or various positions within the Marine Corps. The academy's rigorous education and leadership training also prepare graduates for successful civilian careers in sectors such as technology, finance, consulting, business, and government. While specific job placement rates are not reported, the Naval Academy's Center for Career Services offers support for resume writing, interview preparation, and career fairs. Graduates also benefit from a strong alumni network that can provide valuable career opportunities and support.