The focus of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy is to develop officer-ready leaders of character who embody Coast Guard values, who influence and inspire others, and who decide what is right and demonstrate the courage to act accordingly.

USCGA Mission

“To graduate young men and women with sound bodies, stout hearts and alert minds, with a liking for the sea and its lore, and with that high sense of honor, loyalty and obedience which goes with trained initiative and leadership; well-grounded in seamanship, the sciences and amenities, and strong in the resolve to be worthy of the traditions of commissioned officers in the United States Coast Guard in the service of their country and humanity.”

Our Process

Leader development at the Coast Guard Academy is intentional, collaborative and continuous. Our process includes several components:

Professional Development

Developing leaders and professionally ready officers is an integrated four-year process. The many components include: Curriculum, summer experiences, internships, simulation, career exploration weeks, speakers, and more.

200 Week Experience

Two hundred weeks of academic, military, athletic and leadership training await cadets at the Coast Guard Academy. Ours is a comprehensive, rigorous professional training that prepares students for meaningful careers as leaders.

200 Weeks At a Glance

The Corps of Cadets is largely a self-directed organization that follows a standard military chain of command.