Role Overview
The Navy’s Technical Collegiate programs—specifically the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) and Civil Engineer Corps (CEC) tracks—offer a unique path for high-achieving STEM and architecture students. Unlike a traditional internship, these programs allow you to stay in school as a full-time student while receiving a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
There are no military drills, uniforms, or service requirements while you finish your degree. Your primary job is to maintain your GPA and graduate. Upon completion of your degree, you will transition into a guaranteed leadership role as a commissioned officer.
Program Tracks
NUPOC (Nuclear Propulsion): Focuses on the operation, maintenance, and design of nuclear reactors on submarines and aircraft carriers, or teaching at the Naval Nuclear Power School.
CEC (Civil Engineer Corps): Focuses on large-scale construction management, global facilities engineering, and environmental contract management.
Collegiate Benefits
- Monthly Salary: Receive a housing allowance and base pay totaling approximately $4,000 to $6,000+ per month (depending on location/school) while still in class.
- No Commuted Service: No military training or requirements until after you graduate.
- Healthcare & Leave: Access to full medical and dental insurance, plus 30 days of paid vacation per year while in school.
- Career Security: A high-level management position is secured for you immediately upon graduation.
Post-Graduation Responsibilities
- Leadership: Lead teams of technical experts and manage multi-million dollar assets and projects.
- Technical Mastery: Operate advanced nuclear systems or oversee massive civil engineering and construction projects worldwide.
- Global Impact: Solve complex engineering challenges in diverse environments, from fleet operations to international infrastructure development.
Qualifications
- Academic Status: Currently enrolled in (or a recent graduate of) a 4-year accredited university.
- Major Focus: Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, etc.), Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Architecture.
- Academic Performance: Strong GPA (typically 3.0+ preferred). For NUPOC, completion of one year of calculus and one year of calculus-based physics is required.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Medical: Must meet standard physical and security clearance requirements.
How to Apply
To see if your specific major and GPA qualify you for these programs, please apply through Handshake or fill out this brief online form!
