Professional Education

Professional courses and training are an important part of the Naval Academy's integrated program. Required courses in naval science, engineering, navigation and weapons systems give you a working knowledge of modern naval operations and technology. Courses in leadership, ethics and military law help prepare you for leadership responsibilities as an upperclass midshipmen and a commissioned officer. Physical education teaches you the value of physical fitness and staying fit for life.

Summer Training

Eight weeks of annual summer training introduces you to operational units of the Navy and Marine Corps, life at sea and the responsibilities of a junior officer.

Plebe Summer

This starts on Induction Day early in July. Areas of emphasis include military indoctrination, physical education, basic seamanship and sailing, small arms training, first aid and introduction to personal computers.

Third Class Summer

In the Summer between your plebe and third class years, you will go to sea for three weeks in Yard Patrol craft to various New England ports. Additionally, you will spend three weeks in either 44-foot Naval Academy sailing sloops or participating in naval tactical training, which include simulating SEAL and Marine Corps operations and receiving an indoctrination to the joint military arena.

Second Class Summer

During the summer before your second class year, you are introduced to every major branch of the Navy and Marine Corps. In one action-packed summer, you fly Navy aircraft in Pensacola, dive in a nuclear-powered submarine off the coast of Florida, and patrol, infiltrate and attack mock enemy positions in the forests of Virginia with the Marine Corps. You and your classmates will also report to Navy ships and submarines around the world for second class cruise, You become part of the crew for four weeks, taking part in drills, gunnery exercises and standing watches underway. This experience gives you first-hand knowledge of the daily routine of the Navy at sea. You also learn to appreciate the talents, responsibilities and perspectives of the enlisted men and women you will later lead as an officer.

First Class Summer

In the final summer, you get the chance to put your leadership skills to the test, both in the fleet and at the academy. For four to eight weeks, you join a Navy or Marine Corps operational unit, and this time your duties are those of a junior officer. Depending on your career interests and qualifications, you can choose a surface warship, submarine, aircraft carrier or aviation squadron. Those midshipmen interested in choosing the Marine Corps after graduation may attend a four-week officer candidate course in Quantico, VA, with a follow-on four-week tour attached to a Fleet Marine Force unit. Selected midshipmen may also participate in a four-week internship in a wide variety of disciplines.