What core classes are required at the Naval Academy?

I'm curious about the core curriculum offered at the Naval Academy. What subjects are considered part of the core classes, and how rigorous are they? I'm interested in understanding the academic expectations for midshipmen.

At the United States Naval Academy, midshipmen are expected to complete a core curriculum that spans a wide range of subjects. They designed it to foster a well-rounded education, aiming to prepare midshipmen for leadership roles in the Navy or Marine Corps.

The core curriculum includes seven areas of study: English, History, Mathematics, Science, Engineering, Social Science, and Foreign Language. Let's break down these areas:

1. English: This includes courses that focus on literature, composition, and rhetoric.

2. History: Naval history and national security courses form part of this requirement.

3. Mathematics: Courses in calculus and algebra are typically included. Some midshipmen may also study statistics or differential equations.

4. Science: Midshipmen usually take physics and chemistry courses, with labs accompanying the coursework.

5. Engineering: The academy requires coursework in both electrical and mechanical engineering.

6. Social Science: This includes subjects like economics, political science and leadership.

7. Foreign Language: To increase global comprehension, the Naval Academy expects midshipmen to study a foreign language, with options including French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and others.

The specifics can vary based on the midshipman’s individual academic major and the changing demands of the Navy and Marine Corps. As for the rigors of the classes, the Naval Academy has a reputation for challenging its students academically. The course load is intense and demanding, similar to other top-tier institutions. The core curriculum is intended not only to provide a broad base of knowledge, but also to develop critical thinking skills, adaptability, and intellectual curiosity.