The Department of Naval Science provides purposeful instruction and leadership development experiences to enhance the professional growth of cadets, preparing them for commissioned service in the U.S. Navy Reserve as Strategic Sealift Officers (SSOs) under the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP) in accordance with the requirements set forth in the Regulations for Officer Development (NSTC M-1533.2F). The department is located within the CAFES and functions as the campus unit responsible for maritime-serving naval science instruction, officer leadership training, and reserve commissioning preparation.
Mission and Program Objectives
The mission of the Department of Naval Science is to educate, train, and commission cadets who will:
- attain a comprehensive understanding of naval science, maritime operations, and the strategic role of the Merchant Marine alongside the U.S. Navy;
- develop leadership, ethical decision-making, and professional competencies required of future officers;
- complete a U.S. Coast Guard unlimited license track in conjunction with the SSMP and meet commissioning prerequisites;
- fulfill their obligation to commissioned service in the Navy Reserve while pursuing maritime industry roles, thereby supporting national strategic sealift readiness.
Program Structure and Requirements
Cadets wishing to participate in the SSMP apply through the Department of Naval Science. Requirements include enrollment in a Coast Guard‐licensing degree option, physical fitness and medical qualification, and academic standing at or above a 2.5 GPA.
Participants complete required naval science coursework (e.g., Introduction to Naval Science, Naval Science II: Strategic Sealift Officer, Leadership, Ethics & Naval Science for Reservists) and engage in weekly leadership/physical training drills. Upon graduation, cadets who meet program obligations are commissioned as Ensigns in the U.S. Navy Reserve and serve an eight-year commitment in the Individual Ready Reserve, with a minimum of two weeks active duty training per year for the first six years. They also maintain their Coast Guard license and employment in the maritime industry for three years.
Why Study Here
The Department of Naval Science at Cal Maritime offers a unique dual-track opportunity: a rigorous maritime-licensing program combined with leadership and officer development designed for commissioning in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Cadets gain real-world shipboard and industry experience, benefit from structured leadership training, and enter the workforce prepared both as maritime professionals and military-ready officers.
Contact
For more information, prospective cadets should contact the Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Naval Science or visit the SSMP office in the Student Services Building.