Curriculum at the United States Naval Academy

What does the curriculum at the United States Naval Academy look like? I'm especially interested in how it's structured over the years and whether there's flexibility in course selection. Can anyone provide insights or resources?

At the United States Naval Academy (USNA), all students receive a Bachelor of Science degree, irrespective of the major, due to the technical requirements of naval professions.

The curriculum at the USNA is divided into three core areas: majors courses, core curriculum, and physical education courses.

1. Major courses: The academy offers over 25 majors in a range of disciplines. Depending on your major of choice, you'll take a series of courses within that department in addition to your core curriculum. This enables you to gain in-depth knowledge in a specific area while preserving a rounded perspective.

2. Core curriculum: The core encompasses about 80% of your course load as a plebe (first-year midshipman) and decreases to about 40% by the time you're a firstie (fourth-year midshipman). The rigorous core curriculum consists of courses in engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. This includes mathematics, chemistry, physics, naval science, history, English, and language studies. This Core Curriculum is designed to equip midshipmen with the broad-based and agile mind necessary to make morally, ethically, and professionally sound decisions in the diverse and dynamic environment of the Navy and Marine Corps, as well in their personal lives.

3. Physical Education: Physical fitness is a big part of life at the Academy, and you'll participate in physical education courses each semester.

There is a degree of flexibility as you advance. Plebes have very little choice in their coursework and receive a broad introduction to a variety of subjects. However, from the second year (Youngsters) onward, midshipmen have more liberty to choose courses within their major and electives.

The USNA's academic program is structured to offer rigorous intellectual challenges and align with the institution's mission to prepare midshipmen morally, mentally, and physically for commissioning as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps.

Please note that different service assignments may have additional academic requirements beyond the general core curriculum. Therefore, coordinating your academic plan with your service assignment goals is essential. You work closely with your academic advisor to structure your course plan accordingly.