Prospective Marines
Your path from midshipman to Marine Corps officer starts here.
Becoming a Marine at USNA
Marines on the Yard inform, influence, and develop midshipmen throughout four years at the Academy — whether you are exploring the Marine option or preparing for selection. You will first learn about the Marine Corps during PROTRAMID in your second-class summer. If you are pursuing a Marine Corps commission, you must attend Leatherneck during your first-class summer.
Every Marine in your sphere of influence is here to help you make an informed decision. Start with your company Marine mentor in Bancroft Hall, or contact detachment leadership for detachment-level questions.
| Class year | Program | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 3/C (youngster) | PROTRAMID Marine Week | Introduce the Marine Corps and generate interest |
| 2/C (junior) | MAGTF (optional) | Fleet immersion with operating forces |
| 1/C (senior) | Leatherneck (required) | Primary evaluation for Marine Corps selection |
Career options after commissioning
As a first-class midshipman, you may pursue a career as a ground officer or Marine aviator. After graduation you attend The Basic School (TBS), then proceed to flight training or military occupational specialty (MOS) training. Detailed role descriptions live on dedicated pages — not duplicated here.
- Ground CombatInfantry, armor, artillery, combat engineering, and more.
- Aviation CombatPilots and naval flight officers in Marine aviation.
- Combat SupportLogistics, communications, intelligence, and enablers.
- Marine CyberCyberspace warfare officer opportunities. Page coming in a future update.
Marines aboard the Yard represent many MOS fields and are eager to discuss their experiences. Your company Marine mentor is your first stop — find mentor assignments on the USNA intranet.
The Basic School
If selected to lead Marines, you will attend The Basic School (TBS) in Quantico, Virginia. TBS provides the foundation of professional knowledge and skills necessary to command and lead Marines. In six months, the course transforms newly commissioned officers into capable leaders with particular emphasis on the warfighting skills required of an infantry platoon commander.
Upon completion of TBS, second lieutenants proceed to flight training or MOS training. Approximately halfway through TBS, ground officers indicate MOS and geographic duty preferences. MOS assignments are based on merit and the needs of the Marine Corps.
Points to consider when thinking about MOS:
- Marines on the Yard represent a wide range of MOS fields
- Formal instruction at TBS introduces most occupational fields
- TBS staff represent the majority of fields and welcome your questions
