United States Naval Academy

The United States Naval Academy, affectionately known as Navy or Annapolis, is more than just a college; it's a rigorous federal service academy dedicated to shaping the next generation of officers for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Located on a stunning 338-acre campus in Annapolis, Maryland, at the confluence of the Severn River and Chesapeake Bay, it offers a unique path to leadership and service that begins the moment you step onto its historic grounds.

Established on October 10, 1845, by Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft, the Naval Academy holds the distinction of being the second oldest of the five U.S. service academies. Its entire campus, often called "the Yard," is a National Historic Landmark, brimming with historic sites and monuments that tell tales of naval tradition and valor. From its humble beginnings as the Naval School at Fort Severn, it has evolved into a premier institution synonymous with excellence.

Midshipmen at Annapolis embark on a challenging academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Science degree through a comprehensive curriculum. This is complemented by intensive military leadership training and mandatory participation in competitive athletics, fostering well-rounded individuals ready for the demands of military life. Admission is highly competitive, requiring a congressional nomination, and tuition is fully funded by the Navy in exchange for active duty service upon graduation. This commitment creates a unique student experience, from the rigorous "Plebe Summer" to commissioning as ensigns or second lieutenants, ready to lead with distinction and contribute to national defense. Graduates are highly sought after, known for some of the highest starting salaries in the country.