Can you pursue a double major at the Naval Academy?

I'm curious about academic programs at the Naval Academy. Is it possible to double major there, and if so, what combinations are allowed or common among midshipmen?

Indeed, midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy (USNA) have the option to double major, assuming they can meet the requirements of both majors within the usual four years of study. However, pursuing a double major at USNA, or any service academy, can be more challenging than at a typical college due to the stringent military and physical training commitments.

As for combinations, there is a breadth of possibilities. Midshipmen can select two majors from any of the Academy’s three divisions: Engineering & Weapons, Mathematics & Science, and Humanities & Social Sciences. The combinations that are allowed or common vary greatly, depending mostly on a midshipman's interests, career aspirations, and academic capabilities. Popular options tend to exist within the same division, for example, Mechanical Engineering and Ocean Engineering, but unique combinations, such as Computer Science (Mathematics & Science division) and Political Science (Humanities & Social Sciences division), are not unheard of.

Bear in mind, though, that there are slightly more constraints when one of the potential majors is in the Engineering & Weapons division as these majors often require more courses. Consequently, it might be more challenging to double major with one major in this division and the other in Mathematics & Science or Humanities & Social Sciences. Therefore, it's crucial for each midshipman to plan their academic path carefully with the help of their academic adviser.

That being said, it's important to re-emphasize that the primary focus at the Naval Academy is to prepare midshipmen for service as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. While academic achievement matters, it's balanced with leadership development and physical training. So while a double major can provide a strong academic background, it should not detract from the primary mission of the Academy.