About America's Navy has the most modern, advanced fleet of ships in the entire world. Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) are trained extensively to maintain and operate these ships, their crews and their systems. Providing direction. Leading by example. Surface Warfare Officers form the backbone of Fleet leadership. In this role, you will have the opportunity to excel as a leader. You could serve as Commanding Officer over an elite crew and be an authority in every aspect of your Navy assignments. Doing any or all of the following: Directing personnel operations aboard Navy vessels, such as aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, amphibious warfare ships, mine warfare ships and frigates Managing shipboard vertical launch systems Using computer displays and advanced technology in battle and ship defense Providing support to Navy expeditionary forces, Theater Air Missile operations, anti-submarine warfare, surface-to-air warfare, and support and supply missions Qualifications and Requirements A four-year degree from an accredited U.S. college or university is required to become a Surface Warfare Officer. There are different ways to become a SWO. If you're a high school student or an undergraduate, you can enter through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) or through the U.S. Naval Academy.Those already having a degree attend Officer Candidate School (OCS), a 12-week Navy school in Newport, R.I. To be an eligible candidate, you must: Be a U.S. citizen Be at least 19 years of age and no older than 29 at the time of commissioning Meet the Navy's physical standards General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you're currently serving, whether you've served before or whether you've never served before. Learn more about life in the Navy at