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View Full Version : How Does the Navy handle graduates from Foreign Schools?

IncarNate
06-04-2002, 03:03 AM
I am a US Citizen going to college in New Zealand. I am currently getting a degree in Biochemistry. Upon graduation, I am looking to further my career in the Navy and specifically, the SEALs. Btw, I am a first year student.

I want to be a SEAL more than anything, and whether the Navy recognizes this degree or not, I hope to enter BUD/S, even as an enlisted man if required.

My question is, can I be an officer on a SEAL team with this degree? I know officer spots are limited but I am wondering whether I even have a chance. Also, I want to be on the medical side of the SEALs such as a Corpsman. What steps should I follow?

Thank you,
Nathan
Raine
11-11-2002, 08:52 PM
I don't think it would matter where you would get your degree from as long as you're a full fledged US citizen. At least... that's what I think...
Wazz
11-13-2002, 06:01 AM
Incar
Good question.
With a degree you can initially apply for an Officer commission and most likely receive it. However, it most likely would be in the Medical field allied with your Biochemistry education. And duties would be with the general Navy.

I doubt if there are any roles in the SEALs for an Officer that specilizes in Biochemistry.

However, if you wish to give up the extra salary and enlist as an enlisted man thru a U.S. Recrutiing Station, with the proviso that you are enlisting for the SEALs program, it is likely they would greet you as a Corpsman, a Medic. One who does first aid.

However, I have counseled many young men who wished to put their College Degree aside and enlist ultimately into the SEALs. I strongly caution eager volunteers to give this much thought. The salary you give up alone is a top factor. Then there is the hurdle if you do not make it through SEAL training, for what ever reason the 70% or so do not graduate BUDS. Then there is life after the Navy. And when you show your résumé to post Navy civilian employers it will read, Navy enlisted with an unused degree, vice Commissioned Officer with a used degree.

Give it much thought.