Since the eighteenth century, the United States Marine Corps (USMC) has existed. Marines have taken decisive roles in defending this nation in all battles and wars the United States has engaged in. Few doubt that the US Marines are one of the most highly trained and prestigious groups that provide uniformed military service to the country.

Most individuals entering the Marine Corps do so for the educational and career opportunities it offers. Those opportunities stem from the rigorous physical and intellectual training the marines are known for. The benefits of such a challenging training program include government funding of the bulk of your college tuition as well as preparing for profitable careers within the United States Marine Corps’ many agencies. Some of the information about the US Marine Corps that you’ll need to launch a career with this admirable organization comes from several sources:

1. Contact your local marines recruiter to learn about the advantages of becoming a US marine.

2. Find out about special agencies within the United States Marine Corps.

3. Discover exactly what kind of training and education marines must undergo.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Request recruitment information directly from the marines

The local recruiters for The United States Marine Corps can help you decide whether joining the marines may be right for you and exactly where to get the most accurate information. They can even advise you on the distinct advantages of becoming a marine officer.

I recommend: The United States Marine Corps website lets you complete an online request for information form. You will then be able to contact a local recruiter for help in deciding whether becoming a marine officer might be right for you.

Consider a career with a special agency of the United States Marine Corps

You may not realize all of the varied career opportunities the US Marine Corps offers.

I recommend: Manpower & Reserve Affairs, the largest department within the marines’ headquarters, plans, directs and implements both active and reserve forces. Public affairs specialists work for the Division of Public Affairs, which helps to inform the public about events on marine bases and on the battlefield.

Find out what kind of training and education you will get in the Marine Corps

The specific training you will receive and the education opportunities available to you as a marine will likely be the most prominent factors shaping your decision to become a marine.

I recommend: Marine Corps Institute maintains the catalog of courses and exams marines should complete. Check out the “Frequently Asked Questions” section of its website for detailed explanations about enrollment and training. Marine Corps University started in 1989 as the central agency for the military schools providing marine training and education since the nineteenth century. The Marine Corps University provides Marine Corps information on degree programs, schools and academic support.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The United States Marine Corps urges anyone who contemplates becoming a marine to consider intellectual and physical energies. The training required to successfully complete the program is arduous and highly competitive.