Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program
The most prestigious and challenging officer program in the U.S. Navy, producing leaders for the nuclear-powered fleet.
The Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) program is designed for college students pursuing technical degrees to become Naval Officers in the Nuclear Propulsion community.
As a NUPOC, you'll receive full NAVY E-6 pay and benefits while completing your undergraduate degree (up to 54 months), then undergo the world's most comprehensive nuclear training program. NOPOCs can promote to E-7 upon referral of another candiadate and receive $500 more per month.
Upon completion of degree program, you'll serve as a Division Officer aboard nuclear-powered submarines or aircraft carriers, leading sailors and operating the most advanced nuclear propulsion systems in the world.
Candidates with GPA above 3.8 may be competitive for instructor duty at Navy Nuclear Power Trainging Command (NNPTC), Nuclear Power Training Units (NPTUs), and Naval Reactors Engineers (NR).
Nuclear power is the backbone of the Navy's most critical missions. Nuclear-powered vessels can operate submerged for months or steam continuously for years without refueling.
As a Nuclear Officer, you'll be part of an elite community with unparalleled technical expertise and leadership responsibilities.
The training and experience you gain will open doors to exceptional civilian career opportunities in nuclear power, engineering, and executive leadership roles.
Exceptional Pay & Benefits
Get paid like an E6 while you're still a college student
Substantial signing bonus upon program acceptance
E6 base pay plus allowances while in college
Complete medical and dental coverage for you and family
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) based on your location
Monthly Pay Breakdown (E6 with 2+ years)
Financial Advantage
See how NUPOC compares to traditional engineering paths
Program Requirements
What it takes to join the nuclear Navy
- U.S. Citizen
- Age 19-29 at time of commissioning
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, math, physics, or chemistry
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (3.3+ preferred)
- Strong performance in calculus and calculus-based physics
- Pass Navy physical fitness standards
- Obtain security clearance
- Complete Officer Candidate School (OCS)
- Engineering majors (all disciplines)
- Physics or Applied Physics
- Mathematics or Applied Mathematics
- Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Strong academic performance (3.5+ GPA)
- Leadership experience
- Technical aptitude and problem-solving skills
Your NUPOC Journey
From college student to nuclear officer
College Phase
Until GraduationContinue your studies while receiving full E6 pay and benefits. Maintain academic standards and physical fitness.
Officer Candidate School
12 weeksIntensive leadership and military training in Newport, Rhode Island. Learn to be a Naval Officer.
Nuclear Power School
6 monthsComprehensive nuclear engineering education in Charleston, South Carolina. Master nuclear theory and applications.
Nuclear Prototype
6 monthsHands-on training with actual nuclear reactors. Learn to operate and maintain nuclear propulsion systems.
Fleet Assignment
5+ yearsServe as a Division Officer on nuclear submarines or aircraft carriers. Lead sailors and operate nuclear systems.