Marine Corps University

Quantico, Virginia, United States · Est. 1989

The U.S. Marine Corps' professional military education university system, developing critical thinkers and ethical leaders.

  • Founded August 1, 1989 by General Alfred M. Gray
  • Located at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia
  • Part of the Naval University System
  • Accredited by SACSCOC to award Master's degrees
  • Offers resident and non-resident professional military education programs
  • Serves Marines, joint service members, international officers, and civilians

Academics

Marine Corps University operates multiple colleges and schools offering graduate-level professional military education. The Marine Corps War College awards a Master of Strategic Studies (MSS) degree, the Command and Staff College offers a Master of Military Studies (MMS) degree, and the School of Advanced Warfighting grants a Master of Operational Studies (MOS) degree. Additional programs include the Expeditionary Warfare School for captains, the College of Enlisted Military Education, the School of MAGTF Logistics, and the College of Distance Education and Training. All programs emphasize critical thinking, ethical leadership, and preparation for joint, interagency, and multinational operations.

Mission & Values

MCU educates Marines to prevail in combat through professional military education that develops critical thinkers, innovative problem solvers, and ethical leaders. The institution values heritage by preserving Marine Corps history and legacy, innovation through fostering lifelong learning and leadership development, and decisiveness in planning and execution. The university prepares graduates to serve as commanders and staff officers in service, joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational organizations.

Research & Outreach

Marine Corps University Press, located in Quantico, publishes scholarly works and is a member of the Association of University Presses. The institution operates the Library of the Marine Corps, Marine Corps History Division, and the Lejeune Leadership Institute, which manages leadership development programs across the Marine Corps. MCU also hosts the Center for Regional and Security Studies and conducts research on national security issues through its civilian faculty.

International & Professional Development

MCU welcomes international military students and allied foreign officers into its resident programs. The institution offers specialized programs including the Executive Education Program for general officers, the Brigadier General Select Orientation Course, and the Secretary of Defense Strategic Thinkers Program. The Marine Corps University Speakers Bureau and various symposia facilitate engagement with key allies and strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Founded
1989
Courses
13
Total intake
Not yet verified
AffiliationUnited States Marine Corps; Naval University System
Websitehttps://www.usmcu.edu/
HousingNot available
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
13
Avg career outcomes
Not yet verified
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
No
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources