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Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate

Two Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidates working in a nuclear-powered submarine.

About NUPOC

The Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) Program is a collegiate program for students interested in engineering to join the U.S. Navy as an officer in the Nuclear Propulsion Program while enrolled in a full-time college degree program. While in school, those in the NUPOC program will receive a full-time paid salary in order to focus on their education while reducing concerns of financial obligations.

More Information

Minimum Requirements

  • Currently enrolled in a full-time college degree program with at least one semester completed or have graduated with a B.A./B.S. degree
  • Completed the following courses: Calculus I, Calculus II, Physics I, and Physics II
  • Able to pass a medical and security screening for military service

*Some eligibility requirements are waiverable on a case-by-case basis.

Job Opportunities

The NUPOC program offers several job opportunities for those interested. Jobs include:

*The number of available positions and applicant eligibility for different jobs may vary.

Financial Benefits

Upon acceptance into the NUPOC program, applicants will receive the following:

  • $30,000 Signing Bonus*
  • Monthly Income for up to 42 months while in school. Includes:
    • Base Pay
    • Monthly Housing Allowance**
    • Monthly Food Allowance
  • Refer Your Friend. If you refer someone to NUPOC, you will receive a monthly pay raise of up to $500.
  • $2,000 Bonus upon completing training at a Nuclear Power Training Unit
  • Annual Continuation Bonuses for continued service beyond initial commitment
  • Additional Pay Incentives based upon job selection (i.e. Submarine Service Pay, Sea Service Pay, etc.)

*Signing bonus is dependent upon job selection

**Monthly Income Amount based on Housing Allowance, which varies based on residential location

Service Obligation

Those accepted into the NUPOC program will be obligated to 5 years of active duty service as a Naval Nuclear Officer following the completion of their college degree program. This includes approximately 1.5 years of officer training and nuclear power training followed by approximately 3.5 years of working in their selected job role.

Additional Benefits

There are many exclusive benefits provided to U.S. Military members. The following is a list of a few benefits you will qualify for while in the NUPOC program and throughout your military career:

  • Unparalleled leadership and operational engineering experience
  • Receive credits toward selected post-graduate degrees by completing Nuclear Power training
  • Receive 36 months of free education via Post-9/11 GI Bill
  • Receive tuition assistance to complete additional degree programs while active duty
  • Retirement Benefits, including a pension program and Thrift Saving Plan (Government 401(k)) with 5% match
  • Full Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Low-cost life insurance
  • Special Income/Sales Tax Exemptions and Free Tax Filing
  • Access to tax-free grocery and department stores
  • Military Discounts at many retailers
  • Military Exclusive Banking Options (Navy Federal Credit Union, USAA, etc.)
  • Exclusive Auto/Home Insurance Policies (USAA)
  • Free fitness center memberships
  • Discounted vacation packages, recreational vehicle rentals, and event tickets
  • Premium Credit Card options with waived annual fees (American Express Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, etc.)
  • Reduced/Capped Loan and Credit Card interest rates (Service Member’s Civil Relief Act)
  • Reduced/Waived Vehicle Registration Fees (varies by state)

How to Apply for NUPOC

To find out more information on NUPOC and how to apply, contact your local recruiter. After speaking to a recruiter and beginning the application process, NUPOC applicant should expect the following:

  • Completing required personal information with a recruiter
  • Submit academic transcripts to determine NUPOC job eligibility and availability
  • Perform a medical and security screening to verify military service eligibility
  • Attend a free orientation trip to tour ships or facilities related to your job and speak to those currently in the role
  • Complete a technical phone interview with a Nuclear Officer to verify Calculus and Physics knowledge
  • Travel to Washington, DC for the official job interview at Naval Reactors