Naval Science Minor

Offered at: Solano Campus

The Naval Science Minor within the Strategic Sealift Midshipman Program (SSMP) provides an academic and professional foundation for students pursuing commissions as Strategic Sealift Officers (SSOs) in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Conducted by Departments of Naval Science at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the six state maritime academies, the program integrates maritime education with naval leadership, ethics, and operational studies. Students complete a prescribed curriculum in naval science alongside their Coast Guard licensing requirements for Third Mate or Third Assistant Engineer, preparing them for roles that bridge the U.S. Merchant Marine and the Navy’s Strategic Sealift Readiness Force. The program emphasizes readiness for commissioned service in peace and war, aligning with the Navy’s Total Force concept while maintaining the distinct professional identity of licensed mariners serving as naval officers.

The Naval Science Minor develops the knowledge, judgment, and character necessary for effective leadership and national service. Its learning objectives are to:

1. Build a fundamental understanding of naval science principles and maritime operations.
2. Foster comprehension of the relationship between the Merchant Marine and the Navy, emphasizing their combined role in national defense.
3. Develop moral integrity, honor, and individual responsibility consistent with naval service traditions.
4. Instill an appreciation of the Navy’s role in national security and motivate continued professional growth as commissioned officers.
5. Prepare students to operate as part of the Strategic Sealift Readiness Force, capable of responding to the Navy’s operational requirements in peace, emergency, or war.

Minor Requirements and Curriculum

• At least half of the units must be from upper-division courses (3000-4000 level).
• At least half of the units must be taken at Cal Poly (in residence).
• No more than one-third of the units will be taken with credit-no credit grading (CR/NC), not counting courses with mandatory CR/NC. Departments may further limit CR/NC grading if desired.
• A minimum 2.0 GPA is required in all units counted for completion of the minor.