Is West Point only for military careers?

I'm curious if all West Point graduates end up in the military. Are there other career options after attending West Point, or is military service a requirement for everyone?

West Point, officially known as the United States Military Academy (USMA), is one of the five U.S. service academies and indeed prepares its graduates for military careers. Admission to West Point is highly competitive and comes with an obligation to serve in the military following graduation.

Specifically, graduates from West Point are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army and are required to serve five years of active duty and, if eligible, three years in a reserve component, which could be the Individual Ready Reserve, the Selected Reserve, or the Army National Guard. This commitment stems from the fact that a West Point education is fully funded by the U.S. government.

That said, the skills and training learned at West Point certainly don't limit graduates to a lifelong military career. West Point provides a holistic education, mixing rigorous academics with leadership and physical training, producing graduates who are equipped to excel in various fields. After serving their required military service, some alumni transition into careers in business, politics, academia, and other sectors.

So, while you will have to serve in the military upon graduation from West Point, this service does not have to define your entire career. The discipline, leadership skills, and experience gained can open many doors in your future endeavors beyond the military.