United States Coast Guard Academy

United States Coast Guard Academy, federal institution for the education and training of young men and women as commissioned officers in the U.S. Coast Guard. Created in 1876, it now is located in New London, Conn., on the Thames River. Candidates compete nationally on the basis of college entrance exams. The students, or cadets, participate in a 4-year program, during which they receive military training, training at sea, and academic instruction in courses ranging from marine engineering to government.

See also: Coast Guard, U.S.