Can You Share Info About Submarines at the United States Naval Academy?

I'm fascinated by submarines and considering the United States Naval Academy. How involved are submarines in academy training or curriculum, and what opportunities exist for cadets interested in this field?

At the United States Naval Academy (USNA), there are certainly opportunities for aspiring submariners like yourself. While the overall curriculum at the USNA remains broad and covers a variety of naval disciplines, cadets who develop a specific interest in submarines can focus their experience and learning in this direction.

For example, the Naval Academy offers a Naval Systems Engineering curriculum, and one of the tracks within this is Submarine Systems Engineering. This track focuses specifically on the design and operation of submarines and their onboard systems. In addition to your core classes, this path offers specialized coursework in areas such as marine propulsion, submarine design, and fluid mechanics.

Outside of the classroom, the academy hosts regular events and speakers from the submarine community. Prominent guest lecturers with experience serving on submarines often visit the academy to share their knowledge and provide students with firsthand insights.

Perhaps the most significant opportunity for exposure to submarines comes during the academy's summer training program. The Professional Training for Midshipmen (PROTRAMID) is a program that all Midshipmen go through during their summer break, typically the summer after their plebe (freshman) year. One week of this program is dedicated to the Submarine Cruise, where Midshipmen get onboard a Navy submarine and experience life undersea.

Additionally, Midshipmen who are interested in submarine warfare can spend their first class (senior) summer doing a cruise on a submarine. This would provide them with more extensive and hands-on exposure to the day-to-day operations and duties of the submarine crew.

Finally, upon graduation, if you are selected for and choose to pursue a career in Submarine Warfare, you will attend the Navy's Submarine School and then be assigned to a submarine crew.

The USNA provides the training and experiences needed to launch a naval career, and aspiring submariners have plenty of chances to explore this path. Just remember that the overall curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in naval leadership and sea warfare, so while submarines may be your focus, you'll also be exploring other facets of service in the Navy and Marine Corps. Keep that in mind as you consider this outstanding institution.