The United States Naval Academy, commonly known as USNA or the Naval Academy, is an undergraduate college and officer training institution of the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Located in Annapolis, Maryland, it is one of the most prestigious and selective military academies in the country.
The US Naval Academy's primary mission is to educate and train midshipmen to become officers in the US Navy and Marine Corps. It offers a rigorous four-year program that combines academic coursework, military training, and physical fitness development. The institution is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and grants a Bachelor of Science degree upon completion of the program.
Admission to the US Naval Academy is highly competitive, with applicants required to undergo a comprehensive evaluation process that includes academic, physical, and leadership assessments. Once accepted, midshipmen receive a fully-funded education and are bound to serve at least five years in the naval service after graduation.
The curriculum at the Naval Academy encompasses a broad range of subjects, including mathematics, physics, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and professional military courses. Apart from academics, midshipmen participate in military drills, physical training, and summer cruises to gain practical experience in shipboard operations.
The US Naval Academy is renowned for its emphasis on character development, ethical conduct, and leadership skills. It fosters a strong sense of honor, integrity, and service to the nation among its students, preparing them to assume leadership roles in the Navy and Marine Corps upon commissioning.