The Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program (AUP) is designed to provide a continuous resource of well-trained officer candidates who will excel in the United States Coast Guard or a similar service agency, without the commitment of an ROTC.
This program pairs with your academics and VMI lifestyle to create a challenging and rewarding experience not found anywhere else.
The Mission
It is the mission of the Virginia Military Institute Auxiliary University Program to produce well-rounded cadets with the purpose of acquiring a commission or enlistment in the United States Coast Guard. The program shall provide opportunities for cadets to expand on their leadership experiences and build a foundation of values they will carry into their careers as Coast Guard women and men. These values consist of, but are not limited to, honor, selflessness, courage, commitment, and accountability.
“The AUP provides our cadets with an academic and practical curriculum that will effectively build their resumé. Since VMI is a senior military school, the USCG offers cadets a few different pathways: direct commissioning, the traditional officer candidate school, or enlistment with a four year degree.”
— Command Sgt. Maj. Suzanne Rubenstein, director of cadet activities, VMI AUP liaison
AUP Overview
- Even though this program at VMI was built from the ground up in approximately one year, it is the largest AUP in the country; beating all other Senior Military Colleges and Maritime Schools in size, training, and leadership opportunities.
- There is no service obligation unless selected for a commission. The AUP will afford you training and talking points that will prepare you for your applications submitted in your senior year at VMI. Then, the program you’re selected for determines your service obligation after graduation.
- A billet in the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) could be in any of 30 specialties, spread across various career fields that translate directly into the private sector: Global Operations Afloat, Shore Response, Shore Prevention, Living Marine Resources Enforcement, Aviation, Cyber, Intelligence, Information Technology Management, Operations Research and Data Analytics, Naval Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Financial Management, Defense Operations, International Operations.
- The AUP gives VMI cadets access to special programs and benefits including:
- an increased likelihood of being selected for a commission in the USCG upon graduation;
- the ability to train with and shadow Active-Duty personnel during multi-day training operations held several times a year;
- opportunities to train with Auxiliary staff and Active-Duty Personnel while on Furlough;
- and the ability to obtain real-world certifications through local Auxiliary units.
From Club To Coasties
VMI’s Coast Guard Auxiliary University Program started in 2021 as a cadet club. With the help of AUP Staff, Auxiliary members, and VMI Commandant Staff, the Coast Guard Club earned official AUP status in June 2022, less than a year after its founding.
In 2023, the VMI AUP expanded to 40+ members representing all classes at the Institute and successfully helped 4 cadets receive direct commissions through the DCSS, DCE, and SRDC programs.
