What rank do Coast Guard Academy graduates hold?

I'm interested in the Coast Guard Academy but I'm not entirely sure about what happens after graduation. Specifically, what rank do graduates typically hold when they leave? I'd like to know more about the career path.

Upon graduation from the United States Coast Guard Academy, cadets are commissioned as Ensigns, which is the lowest officer rank. The next rank above Ensign is Lieutenant Junior Grade, which individuals typically attain after about two years of service. This is followed by the Lieutenant rank after another few years.

After about a decade, a successful officer can reach the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Of course, this can vary and it largely depends on the officer's performance as well as open positions within the Coast Guard.

In terms of the career path, many graduates seem to find their niche within the Coast Guard, such as in the fields of operations afloat, marine safety, aviation, intelligence, law enforcement, and more. There's a wide variety of tasks one could end up doing in the Coast Guard, and the specific trajectory can be quite individualized.

Just so you're aware, when you sign up for the Coast Guard Academy, you’re also making a commitment to serve in the Coast Guard for a minimum of five years after graduation. With this in mind, you'll want to be sure you have a genuine interest in the Coast Guard's mission.