NSI PROGRAM OVERVIEW

When sailors today hear the term Seaman to Admiral no doubt former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Boorda comes to mind. As a product of an enlisted-to-officer commissioning program in the early 1960's, Admiral Boorda was the first CNO to have risen from the enlisted ranks. The Integration Program, as it was then known, was designed to provide an opportunity for enlisted personnel who possessed outstanding qualifications and motivation for a naval career to obtain a commission. Upon assuming the duties of CNO, Admiral Boorda immediately reestablished the historic program, Seaman to Admiral, for young Sailors to earn their commission and become naval officers. The admiral believed  people should have the opportunity to excel, and be all they can be, even if they don't get a perfect or traditional start.

Since its rebirth in 1994, the Seaman to Admiral (STA-21) program has undergone several changes to meet the needs of the Navy and Sailors, but the spirit embodied by Admiral Boorda remains intact. STA-21 has always been a commissioning program in which participants maintain the pay, benefits, and privileges they received as active duty enlisted sailors and receive a scholarship to attend a superb university upon graduation.

Physical fitness is an integral part of the STA-21 program.  You will be required to be within Body Composition Standards in accordance with OPNAVINST 1420.1 (series) and OPNAVINST 6110.1 (series).

For additional information on STA-21 and NROTC please consult: NSTC M-1533.2D – Regulations for Officer Development for NROTC

For any question, please contact the OTCN Student Control at (401) 841-3354 or Command Duty Officer at (401) 862-4321.

UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS

You will purchase all necessary Uniforms during your first week of training at NSI. Until uniform fitting and issue, Officer Candidates will wear official Navy PT gear as the Uniform of the Day. Do not purchase uniform items prior to arrival. Uniform items are very specific, and purchasing them from any source other than an authorized Navy Uniform Store may result in unnecessary expenditures.

Any uniform items you may already own that are the same for both officer and enlisted (i.e. all weather coat, Navy issue PT gear, black leather gloves, ribbons/medals/warfare devices, etc.) should be brought with you. Prior Chiefs should bring all khaki uniform components as well. If the Class Officer or Senior Enlisted Class team member determines items are unserviceable, new items will be required to be purchased.

The typical Uniform of the Day at NSI will be Service Khakis.

All Officer Candidates with the exception of prior Chief Petty Officers will receive a one-time uniform allowance to cover the cost for the initial uniform issue. For further questions concerning uniform allowances, please check the below link.

Click here  DoD 7000.14-R ‘Clothing Monetary Allowances’ (Click on Volume 7A, Chapter 29 - Clothing Monetary Allowances)

NSI PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Academic Courses

NSI is designed to provide the baseline level of knowledge required of all commissioned officers in the United States Navy.  Over the 6-week course, candidates will be instructed in the following areas:

(1) Division Officer Fundamentals: Covers numerous requirements and programs to execute duties as a division officer.

(2) Naval History: Provides an overview of U.S. Naval history and how various aspects of Naval weaponry, engineering, ship and tactics have advanced since 1775.

(3) Engineering & Weapons: Introduces candidates to the fundamentals of shipboard naval engineering and various weapons in the United States Navy arsenal.

(4) Damage Control: Introduces candidates to shipboard fire-fighting and flooding controls through hands-on training.

(5) Leadership and Ethics: Case studies of recent naval events are used to develop and apply leadership principles.

(6) Navigation: Introduces candidates to naval terminology, equipment, shipboard operations, marine navigation, and maneuvering utilizing ship handling simulators.

(7) Cyber: Introduces candidates to naval network infrastructure in order to prepare them for future warfare.

Memorization Items.  Officer Candidates may be required to recite the items below. (Go to the Memorization "tabbed" section on this page.)

• Sailor’s Creed
• Chain of Command
• Code of Conduct
• General Orders of a Sentry
• Phonetic Alphabet
• Oath of Office

Physical Fitness Standards

The Navy considers a physically fit body as important as a sound mind. The objectives of the physical training sessions classes at OTCN are to develop stamina, endurance and to improve your overall physical conditioning.

Physical training instruction begins immediately upon arrival. You are required to be within Navy Body Composition Standards upon arrival.  They are:

• Male Standard:
  • Age 18-21:22 percent
  • Age 22-29:23 percent
  • Age 30-39:24 percent
  • Age 40+:26 percent
• Female Standard:
  • Age 18-21:33 percent
  • Age 22-29:34 percent
  • Age 30-39:35 percent
  • Age 40+:36 percent

Officer Candidates must maintain Physical Fitness Standards IAW OPNAVINST 6110.1(series).

The Physical Fitness Assessment consists of 4 events:

• BCA
• Plank
• Push-ups
• 1.5 mile run

PFA INFORMATION:

For information concerning the Navy Physical Fitness Assessment, please click on the following links

Navy Physical Readiness Home Page

OPNAVINST 6110.1 (series)  Navy Physical Fitness Assessment Instruction

STUDENT REGULATIONS:

All NSI candidates are encouraged to review the student regulations and program information included in OTCNINST 1530.7C.

MEMORIZATION

Sailor’s Creed

I am a United States Sailor. I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me. I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world. I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with honor, courage, and commitment. I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.

Chain of Command

Sir/Ma’am, the _____ person in this officer’s chain of command is:

1. Division Officer: ______________
2. Class Chief Petty Officer ______________
3. Class Officer: ______________
4. OCS/NSI Deputy Director: ______________
5. OCS/NSI Director: ______________
6. Command Master Chief, Officer Training Command Newport: _____________
7. Executive Officer, Officer Training Command Newport: ______________
8. Commanding Officer, Officer Training Command Newport: ______________
9. Commander, Naval Service Training Command: ______________
10. Commander, Naval Education and Training Command: ______________
11. Chief of Naval Operations: ______________
12. Secretary of the Navy: ______________
13. Secretary of Defense: ______________
14. Vice-President of the United States: ______________
15. President of the United States: ______________

Code of Conduct

1. I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command, I will never surrender the members of my command while they still have the means to resist.
3. If I am captured, I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole nor special favors from the enemy.
4. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information nor take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
5. When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause.
6. I will never forget that I am an American, fighting for freedom, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America.

General Orders of a Sentry

Sir/Ma’am, the ______ general order of a sentry is to:

1. To take charge of this post and all government property in view.
2. To walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert, and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing.
3. To report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce.
4. To repeat all calls from posts more distant from the guard house than my own.
5. To quit my post only when properly relieved.
6. To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me all orders from the Commanding Officer, Command Duty Officer, Officer of the Deck, and Officers and Petty Officers of the Watch only.
7. To talk to no one except in the line of duty.
8. To give the alarm in case of fire or disorder.
9. To call the Officer of the Deck in any case not covered by instructions.
10. To salute all officers and colors and standards not cased.
11. To be especially watchful at night and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post, and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.

Oath of Office

“I, (state your name), having been appointed an Ensign in the United States Navy, do hereby accept such appointment and do solemnly swear, that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion, and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.”
 

Phonetic Alphabet

Officer Like Qualities

• Honesty
• Integrity
• Work Ethic
• Initiative
• Military Bearing
• Character
• Dependability
• Teamwork
• Toughness
• Accountability
• Leadership

Leadership Traits

• Judgement: The ability to weigh facts and possible solutions on which to base sound decisions.
• Justice: Giving reward and punishment according to merits of the case in question; the ability to administer a system of rewards and punishments impartially and consistently.
• Decisiveness: Ability to make decisions promptly and to announce them in clear, forceful manner.
• Initiative: Taking action in the absence of orders.
• Dependability: The certainty of proper performance of duty.
• Tact: The ability to deal with others without creating offense.
• Integrity: Uprightness of character and soundness of moral principles; includes the qualities of truthfulness and honesty.
• Endurance: The mental and physical stamina measured by the ability to withstand pain, fatigue, stress and hardship.
• Bearing: Creating a favorable impression in carriage, appearance and personal conduct at all times.
• Unselfishness: Avoidance of providing for one's own comfort and personal advancement at the expense of others.
• Courage: The mental quality that recognizes fear of danger or criticism, but enables a person to proceed in the face of it with calmness and firmness.
• Knowledge: Understanding of a science or an art. The range of one's information, including professional knowledge and an understanding of your Sailors.
• Loyalty: The quality of faithfulness to country, the Navy, the unit, to one's seniors, subordinates and peers.
• Enthusiasm: The display of sincere interest and exuberance in the performance of duty.

Chief of Naval Operations Core Attributes

• Integrity
• Accountability
• Initiative
• Toughness

Levels of War

• Strategic: National or multi-national guidance that addresses desired end states and develops and uses national resources to achieve them.
• Operational: Links strategy and tactics by establishing theatre objectives needed to achieve the military end states and strategic objectives.
• Tactical: The ordered arrangement of maneuver of combat elements in relation to each other and the enemy to achieve combat objectives.

Service Songs

• Anchors Aweigh

• The Marines Hymn

You will not be required to pass a swim qualification at NSI.

VIEW THE SWIM QUALIFICATION VIDEO

NSI Required Paperwork / Items to Bring

Below is the required paperwork for each student reporting to NSI.

Naval Sciences Institute Required Paperwork

•       Endorsed Original Orders
•       Detaching Evaluation or Extension Letter
•       Agreement to Reenlist/Extend
•       Record Of Emergency Data (PAGE 2). If you are newly married or have a new dependent child, the original marriage/birth certificates are required.
•       SGLI
•       Medical and Dental Records

ADVANCEMENT EXAM ELIGIBLE

•       Ensure your Exam Worksheet is completed with your current ESO prior to detaching.
•       Ensure your exam is ordered and forwarded to Officer Training Command, Newport via Norfolk PSD.
•       Ensure you have a copy of your Transfer EVAL.

Required Items To Bring:
You will be issued all necessary uniform items upon arrival at NSI (See the Uniform Requirements "tabbed" section on this page.)  You will also receive a clothing allowance based on your rank (Prior Chief Petty Officers will not receive this, as they have already received an allowance).  Below are the items needed to begin training.
Note: Opportunities to go to the NEX will be limited during the first few weeks of training.

•       Personnel with poly/wool khaki's or NWU Type III should bring them.
•       All students need to bring a combination padlock.  (Key locks are not authorized.)
•       All appropriate Ribbons, Medals, and Warfare Devices.

• Running Shoes:


•       Quality running shoes minimize injury potential.

• Authorized Items:


•       Cell Phones
•       Wristwatch
•       Wallet and Check Book

• Other Items:


•       12” ruler
•       2-3 black ink ball point pens
•       Supplies for school, such as notebooks, etc.

• Other Items:
• **Special Dietary and Religious needs must be expressed on the first day of training. OTCN will do everything possible to accommodate all special and religious needs without compromising training.

SAMPLE SCHEDULE *

• 0530                 Reveille / Morning Routine / Breakfast
• 0700 - 1100     Class
• 1100 - 1200     Lunch
• 1200 - 1600     Class
• 1600 - 1700     PT
• 1800                 Dinner
• 1830 - 2130     Study Time / Evening Routine

* The schedule is a sample only. It is meant to give an idea of the daily routine.

NSI FAQ

1. What food options are available at OTCN?
   • You will be required to eat in the Ney Hall dining facility for every meal during normal working hours. The galley has a wide variety of food, including a salad and fruit bar, and a variety of proteins and vegetables. The galley also provides vegetarian options.
2. Should I bring civilian clothes?
   • Yes. You will have the opportunity later in training to wear civilian clothes.
3. What kind of expenses will I incur while at NSI?
   • Some items include:
     • Class T-Shirts/Sweatshirts. Each company usually designs and orders a shirt. These range from $15-$25 apiece.
     • Class Dinner. The class usually orders catered food the last week for a casual event. This ranges from $15-$20 apiece.
     • Uniform accessories. Throughout training you will probably need items to maintain your uniform.
     • Miscellaneous Supplies
     • Any other expense will be on the individual. There is a Navy Exchange on the base, along with other MWR services.
4. What kinds of hairstyles are authorized for females? Will I have time to groom my hair on a daily basis?
   • For authorized hair styles, please look at the Navy Uniform Regulations Chapter two at the following link:  https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/References/US-Navy-Uniforms/Uniform-Regulations/Chapter-2/2201-Personal-Appearance/
   • You will normally have 20-30 minutes in the morning for hygiene.
5. What specific personal items should I bring to NSI?
   • Please see the Required Paperwork/Items "tabbed" section on this page.
6. Can I bring my cell phone?
   • Yes.  You will not be able to use it during the work day, but you will have access to it after working hours.
7. Can I bring my laptop computer?
   • Yes.  Please be advised we do not have wireless internet capability. There are computers available for you to use in our computer labs.
8. Do I need to buy my uniform items prior to NSI, or will we purchase them there?
   • You do not need to purchase any uniforms prior to reporting to NSI. The second day is uniform issue, and everything will be available for purchase on that day.
9. Can I bring over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol, motrin?
   • Yes, but they must be in the original bottles.
10. How do I get paperwork notarized?
    • Your local county courthouse should be able to notarize items for a nominal fee. Also, most law firms/attorneys provide notary service for a fee as well. Check your local yellow pages for this service.
11. I am already being paid at my current rank, do I still need to bring all the documentation?
    • Bring all recommended paperwork items per this webpage.
12. Who do I contact if I have a problem arriving at base?
    • Contact the Class Officer via the contact link or call the Command Duty Officer at (401) 862‑4321.
13. Can females wear make-up during training?
    • Yes, your class team will determine when this will start.
14. What uniform do I report in?
    • NSI Students shall report in business casual attire, (slacks/skirt, shirt with collar/blouse) when arriving. Students will be in formal Navy PTU for the Monday first class meeting.
15. Where will I live while attending NSI?
    • All OTC students will be staying in King Hall barracks for the duration of training. Rooms house two students with beds, bedding, trash cans, study tables, and a wall locker with drawers. Communal heads and laundry facilities are available for all students. Students will be expected to clean their rooms and the common passageway, laundry room, and other common areas. Also, you can expect to participate in weekly cleaning assignments and scheduled room inspections.
    • Rooms have very limited storage space. Pillows, bedding, and linens are provided. Bring washcloths, towels, toiletries, and a padlock for your wall locker (a combination closet and chest-of-drawers), where your personal possessions can be stored
16. What will be my mailing address for NSI?
    • (YOUR NAME)
      STA-21 NSI (CLASS #)
      (YOUR COMPANY)
      OFFICER TRAINING COMMAND NEWPORT
      1356 Meyerkord Avenue
      Newport, RI 02841-1641
17. What are my duties and obligations to the Navy?
    • Active duty military must have a minimum of 36 months obligated service upon transfer to STA-21 Schoolhouse.  Upon successful completion of NSI, students will be transferred to an NROTC-affiliated college or university. Students will attend classes, join the NROTC unit as an officer candidate, and participate in drills; while working on completing their degree requirements within a maximum of 36 months:
    • You will remain on active duty and receive enlisted pay and benefits while attending an NROTC-affiliated college or university.
    • You will be responsible for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses incurred while participating in college studies, however, an annual $10,000 education voucher will be provided to help supplement these expenses.  You will not be eligible for tuition assistance under the Navy's Tuition Assistance Program. Students who do not receive educational vouchers may use their Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and/or Navy College Fund educational benefits.
    • You may apply for Federal student aid at www.fafsa.ed.gov
    • Your active duty obligation after college will vary depending on the specific officer program you choose to enter.
      • If you are not successful in completing NSI School, you must complete the remainder of your enlisted obligated service.
      • For further NSI STA-21 info, please see NSTC's "ROD_and_Appendices" webpage for this manual: NSTC M-1533.2D
18. When I obligate service for STA-21 can I receive an SRB?
    • Under NO circumstances should you receive an SRB while obligating for STA-21.  Reference OPNAVINST 1160.6 for additional information.  Students who do receive an SRB or SEB will be required to repay DFAS the entire amount.
19. My question is not listed above?
    • Refer to the Contact page for assistance. You are encouraged to contact the ROTC unit at your respective university prior to arrival at NSI.  Each unit is unique and can answer questions specific to ROTC, college academics and STA-21.

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