Engineering Leadership Development Program

The Surface Warfare Officer (Engineering Duty Option) program allows technical majors to begin their Navy career as Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) while earning a guaranteed path into the Engineering Duty (ED) community. ED officers lead the Navy’s most advanced engineering, ship design, maintenance, and modernization programs.

What You’ll Do:

Train and serve as a Surface Warfare Officer on a Navy ship.

Lead sailors, manage complex shipboard systems, and qualify as a SWO.

After SWO qualification, transition to the Engineering Duty Officer community.

Work on naval systems engineering, ship design, cybersecurity, maintenance, and modernization projects.

Eligibility:

U.S. citizen.

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, physical science, computer science, mathematics, or related ABET/regionally accredited fields (engineering technology not accepted).

Minimum 2.7 GPA; C+ average or better in calculus and calculus-based physics.

Meet Navy medical, fitness, and age requirements (per SWO Program Authorization).

OCS applicants require a minimum OAR score of 42.

Between the ages of 19 and 25.

Ideal Candidates:
Technically strong students with degrees in mechanical, electrical, aerospace, civil, chemical, nuclear, marine, computer, cybersecurity, software engineering, chemistry, or physics.

Service Details:

Commission as an Ensign (O-1).

Serve afloat as a SWO, then redesignate to Engineering Duty Officer after qualification.

Minimum 2-year service obligation after redesignation (served concurrently with existing commitments).