QUANTICO, Va. -- The Corps is looking for a few outstanding Marines who have earned a four-year degree, before or during active duty, to serve as Marine Corps officers through the Enlisted Commissioning Program.
"The goal of ECP is to provide an opportunity for outstanding and qualified enlisted Marines to earn a commission and become second lieutenants," said Lt. Col. Matthew Kessler, head of Officer Programs, Marine Corps Recruiting Command. "Mature and intelligent Marines who have demonstrated a desire and ability to lead and mentor Marines are strongly encouraged to apply."
The ECP differs from the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Educational Program (MECEP) in that ECP commissions enlisted Marines who already have a bachelor’s degree. The program is open to all active duty enlisted Marines and members of the Marine Corps Reserve who meet eligibility requirements.
"When I enlisted, I already had my bachelor's and law degrees," said Maj. Bill Hennessy, Staff Judge Advocate, MCRC. "I was first told about the ECP by my recruiter. I knew I was qualified to apply to Officer Candidate School, but yearned to experience life as an enlisted Marine first. I was told about the program again by my executive officer and career planner at my first duty station. I later submitted my package and attended OCS two years into my career."
The Marine Corps holds three ECP boards annually. Last year, approximately 110 Marines applied, and 95 Marines were selected. The goal is to have twice as many applications and selections annually, said Kessler.
To apply for ECP, Marines must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university, and be a lance corporal or above with at least one year time in service. Applicants must also meet at least one of the aptitude qualifiers, which include having an Armed Forces Qualification Test score of 74 or higher, a minimum composite score of 22 on the American College Test, or have achieved a 1000 on the Scholastic Aptitude Test for combined math and critical reading.
"The selection process is based on a panel of board members who evaluate each applicant using the 'whole Marine' concept," said Kessler. "The board, which consists of senior Marine officers, heavily analyzes each applicant's package and makes its decision after considering a multitude of factors, to include the Marine's service record, letters of recommendation, awards, evaluation paperwork, physical training performance, and chronological records."
Upon selection, Marines undergo a complete medical examination review by the Navy's Bureau of Medicine. Upon a successful medical review, the Marine is required to graduate from OCS in Quantico, Va., before pinning on the rank of second lieutenant.
"Being prior enlisted made OCS infinitely easier," said Hennessy. "There was no shock, for instance, when the sergeant instructors started yelling, the only real shock came when the yelling tapered off after the first day, unlike boot camp... I loved OCS."
Prior enlisted Marine officers bring a perspective of what it means to be a junior Marine to the officer ranks and are an invaluable asset to the Marine Corps, said Kessler.
"If you’re physically and mentally ready for the increased responsibility and broader horizons, submit your ECP package immediately," said Hennessy.
Enlisted Marines interested in becoming officers are encouraged to speak with their commands and career planners for more information regarding eligibility. For specific information pertaining to ECP opportunities, Marines can access the MCRC website at https://www.marines.com/becoming-a-marine/officer.html or review the annual Marine Administrative Message and Marine Corps Order 1040.43B.