How to Become a Coast Guard Officer

Coast Guard officers serve the country in a variety of ways. They respond to natural disasters, perform law enforcement duties, lead search and rescue operations and ensure port security. In order to be prepared for these diverse duties, the Coast Guard has several ways to become an officer. Read on to learn how to become a Coast Guard officer.

Things You'll Need

• Internet Connection
• Computer

Instructions

1. Learn about the different job fields open to Coast Guard officers. Officers serve on board ships, fly aircraft and operate ashore facilities. Different jobs may require various paths to becoming an officer.

2. Find out if you meet the eligibility requirements. Eligibility requirements vary by commissioning methods. Direct Commissioning Programs usually have higher age limits than the Coast Guard Academy or Officer Candidate School.

3. Research the possible commissioning programs. Decide if you want to attend the Coast Guard Academy or enter the Coast Guard after college. Officer programs include the United States Coast Guard Academy, Officer Candidate School or Direct Commissioning.

4. Apply to college. You can go to the Coast Guard Academy or a civilian college but you must go to college. The Coast Guard does not have a ROTC program.

5. Major in a technical field. The Coast Guard is looking for people with technical backgrounds. Check the Direct Commissioning programs to see if they are looking for people with your specific training and education.

6. Get in shape. Physical fitness is important whether you go to Officer Candidate School or the Coast Guard Academy.

7. Begin your application process on line at the Coast Guard or Coast Guard Academy website.

Tips & Warnings

• Coast Guard officer programs are competitive. Work hard on your grades, extracurricular activities and leadership skills.

• The Coast Guard has a College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative which supplies college students with a full tuition scholarship their final two years. They attend OCS after college graduation and then serve at least three years as an officer in the Coast Guard.

• The Coast Guard's Direct Commissioning program is more diverse than that of the other services. It includes fields such as engineering, intelligence and aviation rather than just medicine, law and religion.

• Follow directions and do not miss deadlines.