U.S. Naval War College (NWC) hosts its 2017 commencement ceremony at NWC in Newport, Rhode Island.
U.S. Naval War College (NWC) hosts its 2017 commencement ceremony at NWC in Newport, Rhode Island. The graduating class of 2017 included 423 resident students of the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, federal civilian employees and 105 international students. Additionally, 1,079 students completed coursework through NWC’s College of Distance Education programs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zach Allan/Released)

College of Naval Command and Staff Outcomes

Upon completion of the U.S. Naval War College (NWC) College of Naval Command and Staff (CNCS) program you will receive a Master of Arts in Defense and Strategic Studies and Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) Phase I credit. Depending on your elective track or participation in additional programs, you may also be awarded Additional Qualification Designations or Subspecialty Codes.

Completion of Our Program

Intermediate resident officers in CNCS will complete a robust program of academic core courses and electives, as well as professional development. Upon completion you will receive a Master of Arts in Defense and Strategic Studies degree and JPME Phase I credit.

Exams, Grades, and Academic Work

NWC is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education to award resident U.S. graduates of CNCS with a Master of Arts degree. The college is also accredited by the chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff to award JPME Phase I credit for this intermediate level program.

Professional Military Education Outcomes

This course, taught to students is designed to support the following Intermediate Level Professional Military Education outcomes:

  • Skilled in applying operational art to maritime, joint, interagency, and multinational warfighting
  • Skilled in the Joint/Navy Planning Process
  • Capable of critical thought with operational perspectives
  • Prepared for operational level leadership challenges
  • Effective maritime spokespersons

Additional Offerings

Academic Opportunities

Broaden your understanding of war (and peace) by pursuing group or independent research and learn from military thought leaders by attending our conferences and seminars.

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Advanced Research Programs

We offer students unique opportunities to conduct advanced research at the college or contribute to enhanced understanding of a geographic region.

More Information

Conferences & Symposia

Our newsworthy lectures, symposia, and conferences give students the opportunity for stimulating encounters with contemporary military, political, and cultural leaders.

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News, Media, & Events

Executive Level Operational Level of Warfare Course

Mar. 18-22, 2024
Evans Hall, U.S. Naval War College, 686 Cushing Rd, Newport, RI 02841

The U.S. Navy's Real China Problem Won't Be Easy to Fix

Mar. 12, 2024
The National Interest
Article Publication