STA-21 (Navy)

Seaman to Admiral-21 (STA-21)

STA-21 Overview

The Seaman to Admiral-21 (STA-21) Program is designed to provide an opportunity for enlisted Sailors who possess outstanding qualifications to obtain a quality education and commission as a Naval Officer. Sailors accepted for the STA-21 program are known as Officer Candidates (OC's).

All OC's remain on active duty at their current enlisted pay grade. This means you will receive all pay, allowances, benefits, and privileges you currently enjoy, and are still competitive for promotions. Additionally, OC's can receive up to $10,000 per year to cover tuition, books, and fees.

OC's are expected to take classes for their major during all terms (fall, spring, summer) such that they are able to graduate in 3 years. Upon completion of the program, they will be commissioned as Ensigns in the Navy.

Benefits of Attending OU as an Officer Candidate

Active duty Sailors selected for STA-21 will find there are many benefits in attending the NROTC Unit at the University of Oklahoma. Benefits include:

Low cost of living
In-state resident tuition for OC's
Tinker Air Force Base – 20 miles away
- Large Commissary & Exchange
- Military Medical/Dental Clinic
- Navy Federal Credit Union, just outside the Main Gate
- Golf Course
- Uniform Store
- Information Travel & Travel office
10 miles from Oklahoma City and 2.5 hours from Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

Life at OU as an Officer Candidate

As an active duty Sailor at the University of Oklahoma, you will be a member of the NROTC unit and will fall under the leadership of the STA-21 Advisor. OC's will typically take 15 credit hours during a semester in a degree program of your choice. The naval science laboratory period is held twice a week – this is when we come together as a unit and conduct training and activities. Additionally, PT is held twice per week in the mornings.

While in the STA-21 program, you will normally attend your college courses in civilian attire and will be expected to wear the designated uniform of the day twice a week and during drill periods.

As an active duty Sailor and a member of the NROTC unit, you are expected to set the example for the rest of the Midshipmen in the unit. You will have the opportunity to serve in platoon, company, and battalion leadership positions. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to travel to other universities to participate in NROTC events in locations such as Boulder, CO, and Dallas/Fort Worth, TX.

Norman, Oklahoma is a great community for students and families alike! The University of Oklahoma is an institution with excellent academics, strong traditions, and a large student body. You will find Oklahoma as OC to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience!

Come join us – BOOMER SOONER!

STA-21 FAQ

I've been accepted for the STA-21 Program. What do I do now?

A: Your first step will be to apply and be accepted to OU. Once you've been admitted, contact the STA-21 Advisor with your OU Admission Letter and OCS dates. From there, we will coordinate to provide you with the OU NROTC Acceptance Letter.

What can I expect when I check in as a STA-21 OC?

A: You must check-in to the NROTC Armory Building on campus in your Summer Whites or Service Dress Blues (season-dependent). After meeting the STA-21 Advisor, you will check in with the unit’s civilian Human Resources Assistant (HRA) and begin the joining process. Ensure you have your official orders, medical records, and birth certificate.

How much time does NROTC participation take up during a week?

A: It depends and varies. Drill and Physical Training are mandated by regulations and typically go twice a week for 2-hours and 1 hour respectively. During this period, the unit conducts professional military education, annual training, sporting events, marksmanship training, physical fitness, uniform inspections, cook-outs, etc. Throughout the year, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of events such as the Marine Corps Ball, Toys for Tots drive, Oklahoma-Texas Football Run, and a host of other special events. We also run usher duties for the Oklahoma football games. You will enjoy plenty of time for academics and personal activities.

What will I do during the summers as a STA-21 OC?

A: You are required to be enrolled in 6-hours over the course of each summer, which basically equates to two courses.

STA-21 Links

The University of Oklahoma Website
OU Veterans Student Services
Tinker Air Force Base Homepage
City of Norman Website
Norman Chamber of Commerce
Oklahoma City Website
Bricktown Entertainment District Oklahoma City

Contact Us

OU Admin Assistant: (405) 325-2021

STA-21 Advisor: (405) 325-2994

Email: navalrotc@ou.edu

Address:
University of Oklahoma NROTC
290 West Brooks Street
Norman, OK 73019-4102