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:
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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.
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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.
Fourth Class Year
Fourth class cadets (freshmen) serve as followers, assimilating into the rigors of military life, while developing essential
teamwork skills.
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Third Class Year
Third class cadets (sophomores) serve as personal and professional mentors for 4th class cadets.
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Second Class Year
Second class cadets (juniors) serve as Assistant Division Officers, mentoring, leading and supervising third and fourth
class cadets.
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First Class Year
First class cadets (seniors) serve as leaders of the corps, as Regimental Staff Officers, Company Commanders, Department
Heads, and Division Officers.
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