Bucknell University vs United States Naval Academy (USNA)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences between Bucknell University and the United States Naval Academy?

  Bucknell University is a private, liberal arts and engineering university offering a broad range of academic programs and a traditional college experience. The United States Naval Academy is a federal service academy that prepares students for commissioning as officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The Naval Academy emphasizes leadership, military training, and a rigorous STEM-focused curriculum.

• What is the academic focus at each institution?

  Bucknell offers a wide array of undergraduate programs in arts, sciences, engineering, management, and education, with a focus on interdisciplinary learning and research opportunities. The Naval Academy primarily focuses on STEM fields, such as engineering, mathematics, and science, alongside naval science and leadership development. All midshipmen graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid situation?

  Bucknell University has a tuition-based system, and the cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid is available through grants, scholarships, and loans. The Naval Academy provides a full scholarship to all admitted midshipmen, covering tuition, room, board, medical and dental care. In return, graduates commit to serving a minimum of five years of active duty in the Navy or Marine Corps.

• What is the campus environment and student life like?

  Bucknell offers a traditional college campus environment with a focus on academics, extracurricular activities, and social life. Students have a wide range of clubs, organizations, and Greek life options. The Naval Academy has a highly structured environment with strict regulations and a focus on military discipline and training. Student life revolves around academics, military training, and participation in naval-related activities.

• What are the career paths after graduation?

  Bucknell graduates pursue diverse career paths in various fields, including business, engineering, arts, sciences, and education. The Naval Academy graduates are commissioned as officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps and embark on careers in naval aviation, surface warfare, submarines, special operations, or other military specialties. They fulfill their service commitment before potentially transitioning to civilian careers.

• What is the application process like for each school?

  Bucknell uses a holistic admission process, considering academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations. The Naval Academy has a more rigorous application process that includes academic qualifications, physical fitness assessments, medical examinations, and a nomination from a member of Congress or other authorized nominating source. The Naval Academy also places a strong emphasis on leadership potential and character.

• What are the similarities between Bucknell University and the United States Naval Academy?

  Both institutions offer a challenging academic environment and seek to develop well-rounded individuals. Both emphasize leadership development, although through different approaches. Both institutions also foster a strong sense of community and offer opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities and build lasting relationships.

• What type of student is best suited for each institution?

  Bucknell is a good fit for students seeking a broad-based education with flexibility in choosing their academic path and career goals. It's ideal for students who thrive in a traditional college environment with a focus on academics and extracurricular involvement. The Naval Academy is best suited for students with a strong desire to serve their country as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps. It's ideal for students who are disciplined, physically fit, and committed to a rigorous academic and military training program.

• Does either school offer graduate programs?

  Bucknell University offers a variety of graduate programs in engineering, education, and arts & sciences. The Naval Academy primarily focuses on undergraduate education and does not offer extensive graduate programs. However, Naval Academy graduates often pursue graduate studies at other institutions after completing their active duty service.

• What is the ROTC presence at Bucknell?

  Bucknell University hosts Army ROTC. Students can participate in Army ROTC while pursuing their Bucknell degree, and upon graduation, they can commission as officers in the U.S. Army. There is no Navy or Marine Corps ROTC program at Bucknell.