What happens after graduating from the Naval Academy?

I've been considering applying to the Naval Academy, but I'm curious about what happens after graduation. Do graduates all end up in the same kinds of roles in the Navy, or are there diverse opportunities?

After graduating from the United States Naval Academy (USNA), Midshipmen are commissioned as officers in either the United States Navy or the United States Marine Corps. Graduates commit to a minimum of five years of active military service following graduation.

The roles they take on are varied and can be in any number of different fields. Many graduates serve in roles on Navy ships, submarines, or in aviation units, and some will also serve in special warfare or special operations, like the Navy SEALs or Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). Graduates who choose the Marine Corps could also serve in infantry, aviation, or logistics roles, among others.

The particular role each graduate takes on often depends on their individual interests, performance at the Academy, and the needs of the Navy or Marine Corps at the time of their graduation. For example, a Midshipmen with a strong interest in engineering and high academic performance might be selected for the Navy's Nuclear Power School and ultimately serve on a submarine.

In addition, there are also opportunities for continued education. Some graduates might immediately pursue a master's or doctorate degree in fields like medicine, law, or engineering through programs sponsored by the Navy or Marine Corps. Other graduates may pursue graduate education later in their careers while still in service.

Therefore, there are indeed diverse opportunities for graduates of the Naval Academy, both in terms of their military roles and their potential for further education.