What are the classes like at the United States Naval Academy?

I'm curious about the classes at the United States Naval Academy. How do they compare to typical college courses? Are they more challenging? If anyone has firsthand experience, I'd love to hear about the workload and teaching style there.

The classes at the United States Naval Academy (USNA) are a mix of rigorous academics and military discipline. They do tend to be challenging as the Academy holds a high academic standard while also preparing students for a career as a Navy or Marine Corps officer. You won't generally find large lecture-style classes at the USNA; instead, classes are often smaller and more personalized, with a teacher-to-student ratio of about 1:8.

As a midshipman, you'll find that the curriculum is a balance of science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences, regardless of your major. There's an emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals who can think critically in a variety of situations. So you might have a mix of calculus or thermodynamics with political science or history in the same day. It's not uncommon for midshipmen to work on complex engineering projects, complete extensive research papers, and engage in service projects all within the same academic year.

The workload is substantial, often more than what you'd experience at a traditional college. You'll be expected to balance your academics with your military training, extracurricular activities, and responsibilities as a member of the Brigade of Midshipmen. Time management skills are crucial.

As for the teaching style, professors at USNA are often referred to as "instructors" and are a mix of military officers and civilian academics. They are typically very invested in their students, and many are professionals in their fields. For example, you may have a physics class taught by a naval officer who served on a nuclear submarine, or a political science class taught by a former ambassador. This breadth and depth of experience can provide a rich learning environment.

In sum, USNA offers a challenging yet rewarding academic experience that combines a stringent academic curriculum with practical, real-world military training. Needless to say, it’s not your typical college experience, but it provides a unique and solid foundation for future success.