A Bachelor of Science ( BS , BSc , B.S. , B.Sc. , SB , or ScB ; from the Latin scientiae baccalaureus ) is a bachelor's degree that is awarded for programs that generally last three to five years.
117-642: Hayes Gymnasium , completed in 1910, is the oldest section of the current Arvin Cadet Physical Development Center at the United States Military Academy . Originally built as an independent structure to replace the academy's previous Richard Morris Hunt -built gymnasium which had served between 1891 and 1910, it was part of a large contract bid awarded to the Boston architectural firm of Cram, Goodhue, & Ferguson in 1903. Formerly
234-509: A lieutenant general (three star general). The 61st Superintendent, Lieutenant General Steven W. Gilland , took command on 27 June 2022, replacing Darryl A. Williams . The academy is a direct reporting unit, and as such, the Superintendent reports directly to the Army Chief of Staff (CSA) . There are two other general officer positions at the academy. Brigadier General R.J. Garcia is
351-549: A Bachelor of Arts in one university but as a Bachelor of Science in another, and occasionally, both options are offered. Some universities follow the Oxford and Cambridge tradition that even graduates in mathematics and the sciences become Bachelors of Arts, while other institutions offer only the Bachelor of Science degree, even in non-science fields. At universities that offer both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in
468-490: A cadet's third summer, they may serve as instructors for CBT or CFT. Rising Firstie (senior) cadets also spend one-month training at Camp Buckner, where they train for modern tactical situations that they will soon face as new platoon leaders. Cadets also have the opportunity during their second, third and fourth summers to serve in active army units and military schools around the world. The schools include Airborne, Air Assault, Sapper, Pathfinder, etc. Active duty officers in
585-445: A child. Above-average high school or previous college grades and strong performance on standardized testing are expected. The interquartile range on the old SAT was 1100–1360 and 68% ranked in the top fifth of their high school class. To be eligible for appointment, candidates must also undergo a Candidate Fitness Assessment and a complete physical exam. Up to 60 students from foreign countries are present at USMA, educated at
702-512: A focus on research, granting access to doctoral programs. In South Africa, the BSc is taken over three years, while the postgraduate BSc (Hons) entails an additional year of study. Admission to the honours degree is on the basis of a sufficiently high average in the BSc major; an honours degree is required for MSc level study, and admission to a doctorate is via the MSc. In Brazil , a Bachelor of Science degree
819-592: A large fitness center in the first floor of the gym. When originally dedicated, the "'62 Room" comprised the south half of the first floor of Hayes. Originally the room was furnished with weight machines and cardio equipment. It is utilized as an expanded "cardio" room, with treadmills, stationary bicycles, stair climbers, and other cardio equipment. The north half of Hayes gym was formerly the boxing instruction room(s), but they have now been combined to form one large room that houses weight machines, exercise mats, and balance and stretching equipment. A wide hallway bisects
936-417: A license in a discipline. They are specific to a field and awarded to students upon completion of a course of study which lasts at least four and usually five years. In most cases, at the end of a course and as a mandatory condition for its completion (and ultimately, to obtain a degree), students are compelled to produce an original research project related to their field. This project is usually referred to as
1053-586: A master's degree (MSc) is also possible, which takes 3 to 5 periods more (1.5 to 2.5 years more). Commonly in British Commonwealth countries and Ireland graduands are admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science after having completed a programme in one or more of the sciences. These programmes may take different lengths of time to complete. A Bachelor of Science receives the designation BSc for an ordinary degree and BSc (Hons) for an honours degree . In England, Wales and Northern Ireland an honours degree
1170-600: A nomination from their United States Representative or Senator . Some receive a nomination from the Vice President or even the President of the United States. The nomination process is not political. The academy applicant typically provides written essays and letters of recommendation. The applicant then submits to a formal interview. Admission to West Point is selective: 7.74% of applicants were admitted (total of 1232) to
1287-741: A one-year placement in industry), Estonia , Finland , France , Germany (mostly three years, but can be up to four years), Hungary , Iceland , India (three-year BSc in arts and pure sciences excluding engineering, Agriculture and medicine, four years BS, Bsc (hons.) Agriculture, Engineering, four years for engineering program " Bachelor of Engineering ", four years for Agriculture program " Bachelor of Agriculture " and five years for medicine program " Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery "), Ireland (Ordinary), Israel (for most subjects), Italy , Jamaica (three or four years), Latvia (three or four years), Lebanon (three or four years, five years for Bachelor of Engineering), Malaysia , New Zealand ,
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#17328487403191404-543: A prescribed series of physical fitness courses such as military movement (applied gymnastics), boxing, survival swimming, and beginning in 2009, advanced combatives . Cadets can also take elective physical activity classes such as scuba , rock climbing, and aerobic fitness. As with all soldiers in the Army, cadets also must pass the Army Physical Fitness Test twice per year. Additionally, every year, cadets must pass
1521-542: A revolver that belonged to Göring, and a silver-plated party book, signed by Charles Lindbergh, Herbert Hoover and Mussolini, among others. Arguably, the most prized artifact on display is a gold-plated pistol that belonged to Adolf Hitler . The commanding officer at the USMA is the Superintendent , equivalent to the president or chancellor of a civilian university. In recent years, the position of superintendent has been held by
1638-663: A sharp increase in the demand for army officers, and the academy accelerated graduation of all four classes then in attendance to meet this requirement, beginning with the early graduation of the First Class on 20 April 1917, the Second Class in August 1917, and both the Third and Fourth Classes just before the Armistice of 11 November 1918, when only freshman cadets remained (those who had entered in
1755-514: A thesis (although the term actually corresponds to post-graduate studies). In Australia, the BSc is generally a three to four-year degree. An honours year or a master's by research degree is required to progress on to the stage of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). In New Zealand, in some cases, the honours degree comprises an additional postgraduate qualification. In other cases, students with strong performance in their second or third year, are invited to extend their degree to an additional year, with
1872-462: A year compared to other institutions. In Chile , some undergraduate majors such as engineering and geology are designed as six-year programs. However, in practice it is not uncommon for students to complete such programs over the course of ten years, while studying full-time without leaves of absence. This is in part due to a strict grading system where the highest grade of a typical class can be as low as 60% (C-). There are studies that suggest
1989-483: A year later. Those who do not must repay the AOG. Marion Military Institute , New Mexico Military Institute , Georgia Military College , Hargrave Military Academy , Greystone Preparatory School at Schreiner University , and Northwestern Preparatory School are approved programs that students attend on the AOG scholarship prior to admission to West Point. The Academy's research centers and institutes include: West Point
2106-512: Is " Licenciado en Ciencias ", which can be obtained as a result of completing a 4–6 year program. However, in most cases, 4-year programs will grant a Bachelor of Applied Science (Spanish: "Licenciatura en Ciencias Aplicadas" ) degree, while other 4-year programs will not grant to an academic degree. Many universities in Europe are changing their systems into the BA/MA system and in doing so also offering
2223-685: Is a United States service academy in West Point, New York . It was originally established as a fort during the American Revolutionary War , as it sits on strategic high ground overlooking the Hudson River 50 miles (80 km) north of New York City . The academy was founded in 1802, and it is the oldest of the five American service academies and educates cadets for commissioning into the United States Army . The academic program grants
2340-539: Is a highly residential baccalaureate college, with a full-time, four-year undergraduate program that emphasizes instruction in the arts, sciences, and professions with no graduate program. There are forty-five academic majors, the most popular of which are foreign languages, management information systems, history, economics, and mechanical engineering. West Point is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education . Military officers compose 75% of
2457-512: Is adjacent to Highland Falls . Based on the significance both of the Revolutionary War fort ruins and of the military academy itself, the majority of the academy area was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960. In 1841, Charles Dickens visited the academy and said "It could not stand on more appropriate ground, and any ground more beautiful can hardly be." One of the most visited and scenic sites on post, Trophy Point , overlooks
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#17328487403192574-447: Is also the burial place of several recent graduates who have died during the ongoing conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan . Many of the older grave sites have large and ornate grave markers, the largest belonging to Egbert Viele (class of 1847), chief engineer of Brooklyn 's Prospect Park . The cemetery is also home to a monument to Revolutionary War heroine Margaret Corbin . West Point
2691-538: Is an undergraduate academic degree and is equivalent to a BSc (Hons). It could take from 4 to 6 years (8 to 12 periods) to complete, is also more specific and could be applied for Scientific Arts courses (like Engineering, Maths, Physics, etc.), somewhat is called Human Art courses in Brazil (like History, Portuguese and Literature and Lawyer studies for example) as well as for Health Arts (like Medicine, Nursery, Zootechnique, Veterinary and Biology for example). To be able to start
2808-548: Is home to historic athletic facilities like Michie Stadium and Gillis Field House as well as modern facilities such as the Lichtenberg Tennis Center, Anderson Rugby Complex, and the Lou Gross Gymnastics Facility. Michie Stadium recently underwent a significant upgrade in facilities for the football team, and the academy installed a new artificial turf field in the summer of 2008. The visitor center
2925-492: Is just outside the Thayer Gate in the village of Highland Falls and offers the opportunity to arrange for a guided tour. These tours, which are the only way the general public can access the academy grounds, leave the visitor center several times a day. The old West Point Visitor Center was housed in the now-demolished Ladycliff College library building. On 9 September 2016, West Point broke ground in order to begin construction of
3042-962: Is normally a requirement for selection into a master's degree program), South Korea , Sri Lanka (three, four, or five (specialized) years), Taiwan , Tajikistan (four or five years), Thailand , Tunisia (only a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration is available, solely awarded by Tunis Business School ), Turkey , Ukraine , the United States , Uruguay (four, five, six, or seven years), Vietnam (four or five years), Yemen , and Zambia (four or five years). Canada (except Quebec , four or five years), Cuba (five years), Greece (four or five years), Peru , Argentina , Colombia (five years), Brazil (four or five years), Mexico (four or five years), Chile (five or six years), Venezuela (five years), Egypt (four or five years), Haiti (four or five years), Iran (four or five years),
3159-519: Is responsible for all military arts and sciences education as well as planning and executing the cadet summer training. Within DMI there is a representative from each of the Army's branches. These "branch reps" serve as proponents for their respective branches and liaise with cadets as they prepare for branch selection and graduation. Within DMI sits the Modern War Institute, a research center devoted to
3276-428: Is typically completed over a three-year period, though there are a few intensified two-year courses (with less vacation time). Bachelor's degrees (without honours) were typically completed in two years for most of the twentieth century. In Scotland, where access to university is possible after one less year of secondary education, degree courses have a foundation year making the total course length four years. In Ireland,
3393-761: Is usually a three-year graduate program in India offered by state and central universities . Some independent private colleges can also offer BS degrees with minimum changes in curriculum. B.Sc. is different from Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) or Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) . Two exceptions are the B.Sc. (Research) course offered by the Indian Institute of Science , the BS degrees in Physics, Data Science (Online degree), Electronic systems (Online degree), Medical Sciences & Engineering offered by IIT Madras which lasts four years and
3510-513: Is what most cadets and USMA graduates think of as "Hayes Gym". It is a large open gym with a vaulted ceiling, hardwood floor, and elevated track (11.7 laps to a mile) that rings the room. The Department of Physical Education (DPE), USMA, teaches applied gymnastics (called "Military Movement") in Hayes, taking advantage of its historical and unusual support structures. The gym has eighteen 21' vertical ropes and two 60' horizontal ropes (suspended 12' from
3627-417: The École Polytechnique in the cadet central area just outside Nininger Hall. The remaining campus area is home to 27 other monuments and memorials. The West Point Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable graduates and faculty, including George Armstrong Custer , Winfield Scott , William Westmoreland , Earl Blaik , Margaret Corbin , and eighteen Medal of Honor recipients. The cemetery
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3744-527: The Bachelor of Science degree with a curriculum that grades cadets' performance upon a broad academic program, military leadership performance, and mandatory participation in competitive athletics. Candidates for admission must apply directly to the academy and receive a nomination, usually from a member of Congress. Other nomination sources include the president and vice president. Students are officers-in-training and are referred to as "cadets" or collectively as
3861-538: The Civil War . In 1835, during the Army's first year of the Second Seminole War , they had only three generals: Winfield Scott , Edmund P. Gaines , and Thomas S. Jesup . The Army's remaining fourteen generals "held their rank by brevet only," and none of them were West Point graduates. Nearly the only way to obtain a commission up to 1835, was through the academy, "which created loud complaint", and added to
3978-870: The Dominican Republic , Egypt (four or five years), Ethiopia (engineering, five years), Finland (engineering, practice in industry not included), Georgia , Ghana (three or four years), Greece (four or five years), Guatemala , Haiti (three or four years), Hong Kong (starting from 2012; three years prior to then), India (Some universities and institutes offer 4 year degrees ), Indonesia (four or five years), Iran (four or five years), Iraq , Ireland (Honours Degree), Israel (engineering degree), Japan , Jordan (four to five years), Kazakhstan , Kenya , Kuwait , Libya , Lithuania , North Macedonia (three, four or five years), Malawi (four or five years), Malta , Mexico , Montenegro (three or four years), Myanmar , Nepal (previously three, now four years),
4095-663: The Indoor Obstacle Course Test (IOCT), which DPE has administered in Hayes Gymnasium since 1944. Bachelor of Science The first university to admit a student to the degree of Bachelor of Science was the University of London in 1860. In the United States, the Lawrence Scientific School first conferred the degree in 1851, followed by the University of Michigan in 1855. Nathaniel Shaler , who
4212-539: The Netherlands (three years for research universities, four years for universities of applied sciences), New Zealand (honours degree), Nigeria (four or five years), Pakistan (four or five years), the Philippines (four or five years), Romania , Russia , Saudi Arabia , Scotland (Honours Degree), Serbia (three or four years), Spain , South Africa (fourth year is elective — to obtain an Honours degree, which
4329-833: The Netherlands (three years for research universities, four years for universities of applied sciences), Northern Ireland , Norway , Poland , Portugal , Romania , Scotland (Ordinary), Singapore (honours degree takes 4 years), Slovakia , Slovenia , South Africa (honours degree takes 4 years), Sweden , Switzerland , Trinidad and Tobago , Uganda (mostly three years, sometimes four), United Arab Emirates , Wales , and Zimbabwe . Afghanistan , Albania (four or five years), Armenia (four or five years), Australia (honours degree), Azerbaijan (four or five years), Bahrain , Bangladesh (four or five years), Belarus , Belize , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil (four or five years), Brunei (three or four years), Bulgaria , Canada (except Quebec , four or five years), China , Cyprus ,
4446-646: The Oxbridge universities almost exclusively award the BA as a first degree. The decision to grant a BS or BA degree at some institutions also depends on the constituent colleges, even when the candidate pursues the same or similar subjects. For instance, Cornell University offers a BS degree in computer science from its College of Engineering and a BA degree in computer science from its College of Arts and Sciences . Likewise, for candidates majoring in computer science, Columbia University offers BS degrees for those enrolled in
4563-416: The Philippines (four or five years). Bangladesh (four or five years), Pakistan (four or five years), Indonesia (four or five years), Nigeria (four or five years), six months dedicated to SIWES (Students Industrial Work Exchange Scheme) but for most sciences and all engineering courses only. A semester for project work/thesis not excluding course work during the bachelor thesis. Excluding one year for
4680-470: The Philippines ; and 76 Medal of Honor recipients. The Continental Army first occupied West Point, New York, on 27 January 1778, and it is the oldest continuously operating Army post in the United States. Between 1778 and 1780, the Polish engineer and military hero Tadeusz Kościuszko oversaw the construction of the garrison defenses. However, Kościuszko's plan of a system of small forts did not meet with
4797-450: The School of Engineering and Applied Science but awards BA degrees for graduates of Columbia College . At Harvard University , the same undergraduate degree in computer science can be an A.B. if taken at Harvard College or Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences , and an A.L.B. at Harvard Extension School . In Argentina most university degrees are given as
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4914-605: The Spanish–American War caused the class of 1899 to graduate early, and the Philippine–American War did the same for the class of 1901. This increased demand for officers led Congress to increase the Corps of Cadets' size to 481 cadets in 1900. The period between 1900 and 1915 saw a construction boom as much of West Point's old infrastructure was rebuilt. Many of the academy's most famous graduates graduated during
5031-481: The United States Congress to authorize a more formal system of education at the academy and increased the size of the Corps of Cadets to 250. In 1817, Colonel Sylvanus Thayer became the Superintendent and established the curriculum, elements of which are still in use as of 2020 . Thayer instilled strict disciplinary standards, set a standard course of academic study, and emphasized honorable conduct. He
5148-446: The rank of captain or major serve as Company Tactical Officers (TAC Officers). The role of the TAC is to mentor, train, and teach the cadets proper standards of good order and discipline and be a good role model. There is one TAC for every cadet company. There is also one senior Non-Commissioned Officer to assist each TAC, known as TAC-NCOs. The Department of Military Instruction (DMI)
5265-589: The "Jacksonian Democracy...a deep desire to get rid of the Academy, where, Jacksonians were sure, an aristocratic tradition was being bred." The Mexican–American War brought the academy to prominence as graduates proved themselves in battle for the first time. Future Civil War commanders Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee , who also later became the superintendent of the academy, first distinguished themselves in battle in Mexico. In all, 452 of 523 graduates who served in
5382-424: The "United States Corps of Cadets" (USCC). The Army fully funds tuition for cadets in exchange for an active duty service obligation upon graduation. About 1,300 cadets enter the academy each July, with about 1,000 cadets graduating. The academy's traditions have influenced other institutions because of its age and unique mission. It was the first American college to have an accredited civil engineering program and
5499-428: The "main room" of the gym received new ventilation and roofing. The first floor the houses two large rooms that are currently utilized as the "Class of 1962 Fitness Center", which is bisected by the "Class of 1957 Hallway". The west wall of Hayes gym was torn down and reconstructed to mesh with the new Arvin gym renovation, which opened in August 2004. The Class of 1962 donated an endowment which furnishes and maintains
5616-482: The 15-year period between 1900 and 1915: Douglas MacArthur (1903), Joseph Stilwell (1904), Henry "Hap" Arnold (1907), George S. Patton (1909), Dwight D. Eisenhower , and Omar Bradley (both 1915). The class of 1915 is known as " the class the stars fell on " for the exceptionally high percentage of general officers that rose from that class (59 of 164). The outbreak of America's involvement in World War I caused
5733-691: The 1973 end of American involvement in Vietnam, the strain and stigma of earlier social unrest dissolved, and West Point enjoyed surging enrollments. On 20 May 1975, an amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill of 1976 opening the service academies to women was approved by the House of Representatives, 303–96. The Senate followed suit on 6 June. President Ford signed the bill on 7 October 1975. West Point admitted its first 119 female cadets in 1976. Also in 1976, physics professor James H. Stith became
5850-523: The BS-MS course offered by the IISERs , both of which provide more research and interdisciplinary emphasis. From session 2022–23, the University of Delhi implemented NEP 2020 under which a bachelor's degree became a 4-year degree with multiple exit and entry options. A student receives a B.Sc. (research) field of study or B.Sc. (honours) field of multidisciplinary studies after the 4th year. In Canada, Mexico, and
5967-568: The Civil War was a graduate of West Point, and a West Point graduate commanded the forces of one or both sides in every one of the 60 major battles of the war. Immediately following the Civil War, the academy enjoyed unprecedented fame as a result of the role its graduates had played. However, the post-war years were a difficult time for the academy as it struggled to admit and reintegrate cadets from former confederate states. The first cadets from Southern states were re-admitted in 1868, and 1870 saw
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#17328487403196084-598: The Class of 2024. Candidates may have previous college experience, but they may not transfer, meaning that regardless of previous college credit, they enter the academy as a fourth class cadet and undergo the entire four-year program. Candidates considered academically disqualified and not selected may receive an offer to attend to the United States Military Academy Preparatory School . Upon graduation from USMAPS, these candidates are appointed to
6201-602: The Commandant of Cadets, equivalent to a dean of students at the civilian level. Brigadier General Shane Reeves is the Dean of the Academic Board, equivalent to a provost at the civilian level. Brigadier General Diana Holland was the first female commandant. Brigadier General Jebb was the first female Dean. There are 13 academic departments at USMA, each with a colonel as the head of department. These 13 tenured colonels comprise
6318-516: The Corps" with "The ranks of the Corps." In December 2009, President Barack Obama delivered a major speech in Eisenhower Hall Theater outlining his policy for deploying 30,000 additional troops to Afghanistan as well as setting a timetable for withdrawal. President Obama also provided the commencement address in 2014. After the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy was lifted 20 September 2011,
6435-468: The East Gym, it was renamed in 1989 for 1st Lt. (posthumously promoted Captain) Thomas Jay Hayes IV, Class of 1966, killed in action in Vietnam on 17 April 1968. Hayes gym is a two-level gymnasium first built in 1910. It is now incorporated into the larger Arvin Cadet Physical Development Center. The gym's first floor underwent extensive renovation during recent rebuild of the overall Arvin gym complex, while
6552-584: The Hudson River to the north, and is home to many captured cannon from past wars as well as the Stanford White -designed Battle Monument . Though the entire military reservation encompasses 15,974 acres (65 km ), the academic area of the campus, known as "central area" or "the cadet area", is entirely accessible to cadets or visitors by foot. In 1902, the Boston architectural firm Cram, Goodhue, and Ferguson
6669-676: The United States, it is most often a four-year undergraduate degree , typically in engineering , computer science , mathematics , economics , finance , business , or the natural sciences . There are, however, some colleges and universities, notably in the province of Quebec , that offer three-year degree programs. Algeria , Australia , Austria , Barbados , Belgium , Belize , Bosnia and Herzegovina (mostly three years, sometimes four), Cameroon , Canada (specifically Quebec ), Côte d'Ivoire , Croatia (mostly three years, sometimes four), Czech Republic (mostly three years, sometimes four), Denmark , England (three or four years with
6786-457: The academy began admitting and retaining openly gay cadets. By March 2012, cadets were forming a gay-straight alliance group called Spectrum. By March 2015, Spectrum had two faculty and 40 cadet members, a mixture of gay, straight, bi, and undecided. According to a Vanity Fair essay, the LGBT cadets were well accepted. After the ban on transgender service members was lifted in 2016, the Class of 2017 saw
6903-496: The academy if they receive the recommendation of the USMAPS Commandant and meet medical admission requirements. The West Point Association of Graduates (WPAOG) also offers scholarship support to people who are qualified but not selected. The scholarships usually cover around $ 7,000 to civilian universities; the students who receive these scholarships do so under the stipulation that they will be admitted to and attend West Point
7020-442: The academy on Reception Day or R-day, which marks the start of cadet basic training (CBT), known colloquially as Beast Barracks, or simply Beast. Most cadets consider Beast to be their most difficult time at the academy because of the transition from civilian to military life. Their second summer, cadets undergo cadet field training (CFT) at nearby Camp Buckner, where they train in more advanced field craft and military skills. During
7137-621: The academy's authorized strength increased to 1,960 cadets. As World War II engulfed Europe, Congress authorized an increase to 2,496 cadets in 1942 and began graduating classes early. The class of 1943 graduated six months early in January 1943, and the next four classes graduated after only three years. To accommodate this accelerated schedule, summer training was formally moved to a recently acquired piece of land southwest of main post. The site would later become Camp Buckner. The academy had its last serious brush with abolition or major reform during
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#17328487403197254-497: The academy. Founded as a school of engineering, for the first half of the 19th century, USMA produced graduates who gained recognition for engineering the bulk of the nation's initial railway lines, bridges, harbors and roads. The academy was the only engineering school in the country until the founding of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1824. It was so successful in its engineering curriculum that it significantly influenced every American engineering school founded prior to
7371-425: The admission of the first black cadet, James Webster Smith of South Carolina . Smith endured harsh treatment and was eventually dismissed for academic deficiency under controversial circumstances in 1874. As a result, Henry O. Flipper of Georgia became the first black graduate in 1877, graduating 50th in a class of 76. Two of the most notable graduates during this period were George Washington Goethals from
7488-534: The approval of New York Governor (and General) George Clinton or the other general officers. It was determined that a battery along the river to "annoy the shipping" was more appropriate, and Washington's chief engineer, Rufus Putnam , directed the construction of a major fortification on a hill 500 feet (150 m) above sea level that commanded the West Point plain. General Alexander McDougall named it Fort Putnam . The Great Hudson River Chain and high ground above
7605-769: The bachelor's degree in Brazil the candidate must prove to be proficient in different disciplines and have at least the accumulated Preliminary, Medium and High School degrees accomplished with the minimum merit of 60% to 70% of the degrees and a correspondent study period that can vary from 10 to 12 years minimum. The Bachelor of Science courses in Brazilian Universities normally have the first 1 to 2 years (first 2 to 4 periods) of basic fundamental disciplines (like for example Calculus I, II, III and IV for some engineering courses, Geometry basics and advanced, Analytical Laboratories experiments in Mechanics, Optics, Magnetism, etc.) and
7722-550: The base-level classes and take advanced or accelerated courses earlier as freshmen or sophomores. Regardless of major, all cadets graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree. As all cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants upon graduation, military and leadership education is nested with academic instruction. Military training and discipline fall under the purview of the Office of the Commandant of Cadets. Entering freshmen, or fourth class cadets, are referred to as New Cadets, and enter
7839-404: The beginning of their second year. This core course of instruction consists of mathematics, information technology, chemistry, physics, engineering, history, physical geography, philosophy, leadership and general psychology, English composition and literature, foreign language, political science, international relations, economics, and constitutional law. Some advanced cadets may "validate" out of
7956-500: The board decides to consider." Currently the BOV is chaired by Representative John Shimkus and is composed of three Senators, five Representatives and six presidential appointees. Candidates must be between 17 and 23 years old (waivers have been accepted for 24-year olds in rare cases where the candidate is in the military and deployed and therefore unable to attend before their 24th birthday), unmarried, and with no legal obligation to support
8073-452: The candidates major in economics or not. The London School of Economics offers BSc degrees in practically all subject areas, even those normally associated with the arts and humanities. Northwestern University 's School of Communication grants the Bachelor of Science in Journalism degrees in all of its programs of study, including theater, dance, and radio/television/film. Meanwhile,
8190-506: The class of 1880, and John J. Pershing from the class of 1886. Goethals gained prominence as the chief engineer of the Panama Canal , and Pershing would become famous for his exploits against the famed Pancho Villa in Mexico and later for leading American Forces during World War I. Besides the integration of southern-state and black cadets, the post-war academy also struggled with the issue of hazing . In its first 65 years, hazing
8307-619: The compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), para-military and civil service. North Macedonia , Sierra Leone (four years dedicated to coursework), Slovenia (four or five years), Sudan (five years for BSc honours degree and four years for BSc ordinary degree), and Syria . In Algeria , the student presents a thesis in front of a Jury at the end of the fifth year. Some universities in Canada (such as University of British Columbia and Vancouver Island University ) have most of their science and applied science students extend their degree by
8424-463: The core of the Academic Board. These officers are titled "Professors USMA" or PUSMA. The academy is also overseen by the Board of Visitors (BOV). The BOV is a panel of Senators, Congressional Representatives, and presidential appointees who "shall inquire into the morale and discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other matters relating to the academy that
8541-565: The disciplines offered. Georgetown University 's School of Foreign Service awards the Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service (BSFS) degrees to all of its undergraduates, although many students major in humanities-oriented fields such as international history or culture and politics. University of Pennsylvania 's Wharton School awards the BS in Economics to all of its undergraduates, regardless if
8658-701: The establishment and funding of the school with the Military Peace Establishment Act of 1802 , which Jefferson signed on 16 March. The academy officially commenced operations on 4 July 1802. The academy graduated Joseph Gardner Swift , its first official graduate, in October 1802. He later returned as Superintendent from 1812 to 1814. In its tumultuous early years, the academy featured few standards for admission or length of study. Cadets ranged in age from 10 years to 37 years and attended between 6 months to 6 years. The impending War of 1812 caused
8775-494: The establishment of a military academy at West Point and introduced "A Bill for Establishing a Military Academy" in the House of Representatives. In 1801, shortly after his inauguration as president, Thomas Jefferson directed that plans be set in motion to establish at West Point the United States Military Academy. He selected Jonathan Williams to serve as its first superintendent. Congress formally authorized
8892-623: The expense of the sponsoring nation, with tuition assistance based on the GNP of their country. Of these foreign cadets the Code of Federal Regulations specifically permits one Filipino cadet designated by the President of the Philippines . The actual application process consists of two main requirements: candidates apply to USMA for admission and separately provide a nomination. The majority of candidates receive
9009-725: The faculty, while civilian professors make up the remaining 25%. A cadet's class rank, which determines their Army branch and assignment upon graduation, is calculated as a combination of academic performance (55%), military leadership performance (30%), and physical fitness and athletic performance (15%). The academy's teaching style forms part of the Thayer method, which was implemented by Sylvanus Thayer during his tour as Superintendent. This form of instruction emphasizes small classes with daily homework, and strives to make students actively responsible for their own learning by completing homework assignments prior to class and bringing
9126-503: The field training regimen and the Cadet Honor Committee was formed under his watch in 1922. MacArthur was a firm supporter of athletics at the academy, as he famously said "Upon the fields of friendly strife are sown the seeds that, upon other fields, on other days, will bear the fruits of victory." West Point was first officially accredited in 1925, and in 1933 began granting Bachelor of Science degrees to all graduates. In 1935,
9243-486: The first openly transgender graduate. However, she was denied a commission and was honorably discharged. Brig. Gen. Diana Holland became West Point's first woman Commandant of Cadets in January 2016. In 2020, the campus confronted its first major pandemic in a century, with the COVID-19 pandemic causing limitations on classes, and the relocation of the traditional Army-Navy football game to ensure social distancing . For
9360-669: The first tenured African American Professor. In 1979, Cadet, later General, Vincent K. Brooks became the first African American to lead the Corps of Cadets. Kristin Baker, ten years later, became the first female First Captain (a depiction of her is now on display in the Museum), the highest ranking senior cadet at the academy in 1989. Six other women have been appointed as First Captain: Grace H. Chung in 2003, Stephanie Hightower in 2005, Lindsey Danilack in 2013, Simone Askew in 2017, Reilly McGinnis in 2020, and Lauren Drysdale in 2022. Simone Askew
9477-530: The first time in many years, the 121st iteration of the game was held at West Point rather than the traditional Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia . Ultimately, West Point beat Navy 15–0. The academy is located approximately 50 miles (80 km) north of New York City on the western bank of the Hudson River . West Point, New York , is incorporated as a federal military reservation in Orange County and
9594-415: The first to have class rings , and its technical curriculum became a model for engineering schools. West Point's student body has a unique rank structure and lexicon. The academy fields 15 men's and nine women's National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sports teams. Cadets compete in one sport every fall, winter, and spring season at the intramural, club, or intercollegiate level. Its football team
9711-517: The floor). There are also 10 pull-up bars that are re 5' wide each and are suspended from the ceiling from vertical supports in such a manner that they can be "run across" (with proper technique), as is done during the IOCT . The gym's floor space is filled with gymnastic's apparatus and pads, such as vaults, bars, and rings as well as 1" and 4" tumbling mats. Prior to the reconstruction of the new Arvin CPDC, Hayes
9828-445: The former BS was changed to BSc (Hons), which is awarded after four years. The BSc (Ord) is awarded after three years. Formerly at the University of Oxford , the degree of BSc was a postgraduate degree; this former degree, still actively granted, has since been renamed MSc. In Chile , the completion of a university program leads to an academic degree as well as a professional title. The academic degree equivalent to Bachelor of Science
9945-600: The full equivalent of a BSc or MSc (see Bologna Process ). Universities in the Czech Republic are changing their systems into the Bachelor of Science/Master of Science system and in doing so also offering the full equivalent of a BSc (Bc.) or MSc (Mgr./Ing.). In Germany, there are two kinds of universities: Universitäten and Fachhochschulen (which are also called University of Applied Sciences). Universitäten and Fachhochschulen – both also called Hochschulen - are legally equal, but Fachhochschulen have
10062-569: The guidance for the development of all four classes. The class of 1990 was the first one to be issued a standard and mandatory computer to every member of the class at the beginning of Plebe year, the Zenith 248 SX . The academy was also an early adopter of the Internet in the mid-1990s, and was recognized in 2006 as one of the nation's "most wired" campuses. During the Gulf War , alumnus General Schwarzkopf
10179-448: The last 2 to 3 years disciplines more related to the professional fields of that Bachelor of Science (for example Units Operations, Thermodynamics, Chemical Reactors, Industrial Processes, Kinetics for Chemical Engineering for example). Some disciplines are prerequisite to others and in some universities, the student is not allowed to course any discipline for the entire next period if he was unsuccessful in just one prerequisite discipline of
10296-613: The narrow "S" curve in the river enabled the Continental Army to prevent the Royal Navy from sailing upriver and dividing Patriot forces in the Northern colonies from the south. While the fortifications at West Point were known as Fort Arnold during the war, as commander, Benedict Arnold committed his act of treason , attempting to turn the fort over to the British. After Arnold betrayed
10413-418: The new 31,000 square foot Malek West Point Visitors Center. It is being built on the location of the former visitor center. The Malek West Point Visitors Center is named after Frederic Malek, USMA Class of 1959 and a 2014 Distinguished Graduate. The West Point Museum is directly adjacent to the visitor center, in the renovated Olmsted Hall on the grounds of the former Ladycliff College . Originally opened to
10530-796: The oldest private residences for the faculty, are built in the Federal , Georgian , or English Tudor styles. A few buildings, such as Cullum Hall and the Old Cadet Chapel , are built in the Neoclassical style. The academy grounds are home to numerous monuments and statues. The central cadet parade ground, the Plain , hosts the largest number, and includes the Washington Monument , Thayer Monument , Eisenhower Monument , MacArthur Monument , Kosciuszko Monument , and Sedgwick Monument . Patton Monument
10647-554: The patriot cause, the Army changed the name of the fortifications at West Point, New York, to Fort Clinton , named after General James Clinton . With the peace after the American Revolutionary War, various ordnance and military stores were left deposited at West Point. "Cadets" underwent training in artillery and engineering studies at the garrison since 1794. During the Quasi-War , Alexander Hamilton laid out plans for
10764-407: The pattern of freshmen's systemic hazing. When MacArthur returned as superintendent, he made an effort to end the practice of hazing the incoming freshmen by placing Army sergeants in charge of training new cadets during freshman summer. The practice of hazing continued on some levels well into the late 20th century, but is no longer allowed in the present day. The demand for junior officers during
10881-425: The present period. Usually, the Bachelor of Science courses demand a one-year mandatory probation period by the end of the course (internship in the specific professional area, like a training period), followed by relatively elaborate written and oral evaluations. To get the certification as BSc, most universities require that the students achieve the accomplishment of 60% to 70% in all the "obligatory disciplines", plus
10998-522: The public in 1854, the West Point Museum is the oldest military museum in the country. During the summer months, the museum operates access to the Fort Putnam historic site on main post and access to the 282 acre Constitution Island . Some of the most notable items on display at the museum are George Washington 's pistols, Napoleon's sword, a dagger carried by Hermann Göring when he was captured,
11115-708: The reputation of being more related to practice and have no legal right to offer PhD programmes. The BSc in Germany is equivalent to the BSc(Hons) in the United Kingdom. Many universities in German-speaking countries are changing their systems to the BA/MA system and in doing so also offering the full equivalent of a BSc. In Germany the BA normally lasts between three and four years (six to eight semesters) and between 180 and 240 ECTS must be earned. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
11232-435: The same discipline , the Bachelor of Science degree is usually more focused on that particular discipline and is targeted toward students intending to pursue graduate school or a profession in that discipline. The following are the subjects that, regardless of country, are offered in a BSc program: In some institutions, there are historical and traditional reasons that govern the granting of BS or BA degrees regardless of
11349-756: The size of the Corps expand to 4,400 cadets while the barracks and academic support structure grew proportionally. West Point was not immune to the social upheaval of American society during the Vietnam War . The first woman joined the faculty of the all-male institution amidst controversy in 1968. West Point granted its first honorable discharge in 1971 to an African-American West Point cadet, Cornelius M. Cooper, of California, who applied for conscientious objector status in 1969. The academy struggled to fill its incoming classes as its graduates led troops in Southeast Asia, where 333 graduates died. Following
11466-565: The steam engine. With the outbreak of the Civil War, West Point graduates filled the general officer ranks of the rapidly expanding Union and Confederate armies. 294 graduates served as general officers for the Union, and 151 served as general officers for the Confederacy. Of all living graduates at the time of the war, 105 (10%) were killed, and another 151 (15%) were wounded. Nearly every general officer of note from either army during
11583-464: The study of contemporary conflict and the evolving character of war. The Department of Physical Education (DPE) administers the physical program, which includes both physical education classes, physical fitness testing, and competitive athletics. The head of DPE holds the title of Master of the Sword, dating back to the 19th century when DPE taught swordsmanship as part of the curriculum. All cadets take
11700-435: The summer of 1918). In all, wartime contingencies and post-war adjustments resulted in ten classes, varying in length of study from two to four years, within a seven-year period before the regular course of study was fully resumed. Douglas MacArthur became superintendent in 1919, instituting sweeping reforms to the academic process, including introducing a greater emphasis on history and humanities . He made major changes to
11817-414: The supervisioned and approved training period (like a supervisioned internship period), the final thesis of the course, and in some BSc programs, the final exam test. The final exam also is required so far. To be a professor, a Bachelor of Sciences is required to get a Licenciature degree, which lasts on top of the periods already studied until getting the BSc (Hons), plus 2 to 3 periods (1 to 1.5 years). With
11934-544: The two main rooms on the first floor, running east–west. The academy has maintained the gothic interior architecture of this hallway during the many different renovations of Hayes. Maintained by a gift from the class of 1957, this un-renovated section of the building is a link to the gym's past when it was not only a place of exercise, but also housed the cadet restaurant and was a place for social gatherings. Formal ceremonies are occasionally held in this large hallway because of its "old-fashioned" look. The second level of Hayes
12051-475: The war in 1945, Maxwell Taylor (class of 1922) became superintendent. He expanded and modernized the academic program and abolished antiquated courses in fencing and horsemanship. Unlike previous conflicts, the Korean War did not disrupt class graduation schedules. More than half of the Army leadership during the war was composed of West Point graduates. The Class of 1950, which graduated only two weeks prior to
12168-489: The war received battlefield promotions or awards for bravery. The school experienced a rapid modernization during the 1850s, often romanticized by the graduates who led both sides of the Civil War as the "end of the Old West Point era." New barracks brought better heat and gas lighting , while new ordnance and tactics training incorporated new rifle and musket technology and accommodated transportation advances created by
12285-467: The war's outbreak, suffered some of the heaviest casualties of any 20th century class and became known sourly as "the class the crosses fell on." A total of 157 alumni perished in the conflict. Garrison H. Davidson became superintendent in 1956 and instituted several reforms that included refining the admissions process, changing the core curriculum to include electives, and increasing the academic degree standards for academy instructors. The 1960s saw
12402-485: The war, when some members of Congress charged that even the accelerated curriculum allowed young men to "hide out" at West Point and avoid combat duty. A proposal was put forth to convert the academy to an officer's training school with a six-month schedule, but this was not adopted. West Point played a prominent role in WWII; four of the five five-star generals were alumni and nearly 500 graduates died. Immediately following
12519-423: The work to class to discuss collaboratively. The academic program consists of a structured core of thirty-one courses balanced between the arts and sciences. The academy operates on the semester system, which it labels as "terms" (Term 1 is the fall semester; Term 2 is the spring semester). Although cadets choose their majors in the spring of their freshmen year, all cadets take the same course of instruction until
12636-410: Was Harvard's Dean of Sciences, wrote in a private letter that "the degree of Bachelor of Science came to be introduced into our system through the influence of Louis Agassiz , who had much to do in shaping the plans of this School." Whether Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degrees are awarded in particular subjects varies between universities. For example, an economics student may graduate as
12753-565: Was a national power in the early and mid-20th century, winning three national championships. Among the country's public institutions, the academy is the top producer of Marshall and Rhodes scholars. Its alumni are collectively referred to as "The Long Gray Line," which include U.S. Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and Ulysses S. Grant ; Confederate President Jefferson Davis ; Confederate general Robert E. Lee ; American poet Edgar Allan Poe ; U.S. generals Douglas MacArthur and George Patton ; presidents of Costa Rica , Nicaragua , and
12870-543: Was also used for its basketball court, as three undersized courts fit side by side with the backboards suspended from the track structure. With the completion of the new gym and the six dedicated basketball courts in other parts of Arvin, DPE has removed the rims from the Hayes backboards and no longer uses it as a basketball or team handball facility, allowing the military movement equipment to remain in place year-round. United States Military Academy The United States Military Academy ( USMA , West Point , or Army )
12987-507: Was awarded a major construction contract that set the predominantly neogothic architectural style still seen today. Most of the buildings of the central cadet area are in this style, as typified by the Cadet Chapel , completed in 1910. These buildings are nearly all constructed from granite that has a predominantly gray and black hue. The barracks that were built in the 1960s were designed to mimic this style. Other buildings on post, notably
13104-447: Was first dedicated in front of the cadet library in 1950, but in 2004 it was placed in storage to make room for the construction of Jefferson Hall. With the completion of Jefferson Hall, Patton 's statue was relocated and unveiled at a temporary location on 15 May 2009, where it will remain until the completion of the renovation of the old cadet library and Bartlett Hall. There is also a statue commemorating brotherhood and friendship from
13221-503: Was killed during the 9/11 terrorist attacks and ninety graduates have died during operations in Afghanistan , Iraq , and the ongoing Global War on Terror . The Class of 2005 has been referred to as The Class of 9/11 as the attacks occurred during their first year at the academy, and they graduated 911 students. In 2008 gender-neutral lyrics were incorporated into West Point's "Alma Mater" and "The Corps" – replacing lines like "The men of
13338-639: Was the commander of Allied Forces, and the American senior generals in Iraq , Generals Petraeus , Odierno and Austin , and Afghanistan, retired General Stanley McChrystal and General David Rodriguez , are also alumni. Following the September 11 attacks , applications for admission to the academy increased dramatically, security on campus was increased, and the curriculum was revamped to include coursework on terrorism and military drills in civilian environments. One graduate
13455-548: Was the first African American woman to lead the Corps. In the 21st century, women comprise approximately 20% of entering new cadets. In 1985, cadets were formally authorized to declare an academic major; all previous graduates had been awarded a general bachelor of science degree. Five years later there was a major revision of the Fourth Class System , as the Cadet Leader Development System (CLDS) became
13572-482: Was uncommon or non-existent beyond small pranks played upon the incoming freshmen, but took a harsher tone as Civil War veterans began to fill the incoming freshman classes. The upper class cadets saw it as their duty to "teach the plebes their manners." Hazing at the academy entered the national spotlight with the death of former cadet Oscar L. Booz on 3 December 1900. Congressional hearings, which included testimony by cadet Douglas MacArthur , investigated his death and
13689-572: Was very much inspired by the curriculum of the French École Polytechnique where he had been sent upon his demand for two years in order to study the scientific and technological achievements developed by the French Republican faction and bring them back to the United States. Known as the "Father of the Military Academy," he is honored with a monument on campus for the profound impact he had upon
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