Navigating a Career in Engineering/Physics after Naval Academy Service

[Anonymous23]

Hello,

I'm interested in applying for the Naval Academy. I know they have great undergraduate programs in both engineering and physics, which I'm really interested in. (I'm not sure which one exactly I want to get a degree in yet). Graduates from the Naval Academy are required to spend 5 years on active duty. I don't have a problem with this at all; in fact; I really want to serve my country. The problem is this: how will I be able to continue my education after those 5 years of service? Is it even possible to still be accepted to a good Physics/Engineering school? The schools I'd like to go to for Grad/Ph.D years would be like MIT, Caltech, etc. Would this ruin my chances of getting in? Is it a good idea to even get a Ph.D that late?

Any information would be amazing. As you can see I have a lot of questions, and a detailed explanation would be very much appreciated.

Thanks, Matt.

 

[Hercuflea]

Son, there are people who don't get their PhD's until their forties.

In all seriousness, it sounds like a great plan to me. If you like nuclear engineering you could do a navy ROTC program at a good school and go into the naval nuclear power school. I hear they are desperate for new recruits and they will pay you ~$20000 a year for two years before you even begin your training (as long as you stay in school with good grades). If the military is your thing I would hit that up. I'm sure the navy has plenty of opportunities in other fields of engineering as well. If you're into aerospace engineering or computer science, try the air force.

 

[Anonymous23]

Well, I don't want to pursue a military career, although I do want to spend some time in the service. What I'd like is a civilian job as a physicist or an engineer. I just need help choosing between:

Naval Academy -> 5 years of service -> Masters -> Ph.D -> job

or

Regular 4-year undergrad program -> Masters -> Ph.D -> job

 

[Hercuflea]

Well, I don't want to pursue a military career, although I do want to spend some time in the service. What I'd like is a civilian job as a physicist or an engineer. I just need help choosing between:

Naval Academy -> 5 years of service -> Masters -> Ph.D -> job

or

Regular 4-year undergrad program -> Masters -> Ph.D -> job

Not sure if nuclear is your thing, but with the Navy program I mentioned you can take graduate classes, receive the Navy's "equivalent" of a master's degree in engineering, and teach nuclear engineering to recruits for four years. I don't think you even have to go onto a ship if you take the instructor track, and you will receive officer pay. My guess is you could go directly into a PhD program after finishing your service.

edit: http://www.navy.com/careers/nuclear-energy/nuclear-power-school.html

 

[Matrix0]

As a scientist with experience in both engineering and physics, I can assure you that the Naval Academy is a fantastic choice for your undergraduate education. The rigorous academic programs in both fields will provide you with a strong foundation for your future career.

Regarding your concerns about continuing your education after your 5 years of active duty, I can assure you that it is possible to still be accepted into top graduate programs in engineering and physics. In fact, many universities value the leadership and real-world experience that comes with serving in the military. It may actually give you an advantage in the admissions process.

As for your specific concerns about schools like MIT and Caltech, it is important to note that these institutions have a variety of programs and opportunities for military veterans. For example, MIT has a Veterans Education and Training program specifically designed to support veterans pursuing higher education. It is also common for universities to offer flexible options for veterans, such as online or part-time programs, to accommodate their unique circumstances.

As for pursuing a Ph.D later in your career, it is certainly possible and can even be beneficial. Your time in the military will have given you valuable skills and experiences that can be applied to your research and academic pursuits. Additionally, many universities value the diversity and unique perspectives that non-traditional students bring to their programs.

In summary, serving in the military does not hinder your chances of pursuing a higher education in engineering and physics. In fact, it can enhance your skills and experiences and make you a more competitive candidate. I encourage you to continue to pursue your passion for these fields and to reach out to specific universities for more information on their programs and resources for military veterans. Best of luck in your future endeavors.