College degrees for officers

LTJG Kellogg-The Navy officer corps began as largely ad-hoc; from the Revolution through to the War of 1812, the realm of command at sea was still largely based on life-long, professional ship's masters, though there were some truly notable professional officers at sea (research Steven Decatur). At that time, commissions were handled much as they were in the Army, and involved Congressional or Presidential appointment...as they do today. By the second decade of the 19th century, Congress was beginning to understand the importance of standardized academic training for Midshipmen, hence the inception of what would evolve into the United States Naval Academy. The "requirement" for a degree most logically ensued from the combination of matching qualifications of these new officers, and the overall perception that as "gentlemen", officers had formal education.

Couldn't find a year on anything either, have put a net call out to some of my Navy friends and comrades.
What is it needed for?