If you are looking for a career, the Navy is not a bad way to go. Keep in mind that the Navy decides where you go. Sure you can volunteer for career paths, like aviation, nuclear power, subs, and such, but you are still there to serve the needs of the service. A Naval Line Officer is a generalist (other then pilots), the heavy technical skills reside in the enlisted ranks. As a line officer in nuclear power, you will be trained as an operating engineer, in the position of a watch officer. A watch officer is usually an E-7 and above and of course an officer. (although I have seen a senior E-6 qualify as an engineering watch officer). In addition to standing watches, you will have leadership responsibility within engineering, as a division officer, or some position under a division officer.
The Navy will look to your education only as it relates to your qualification as a line officer. Once accepted into the officer corps, you go where they need you. As a junior officer, instructor, or researcher roles are not in the cards (unless you were specifically recruited for skills you offer).
In closing, whether as an officer or enlisted, you will not be using the engineering skills and knowledges you have acquired. This will be true whether you go into nuclear power or just go where the Navy sends you.
So, if you are going the career path in the Navy, other then to become an officer, your education does not matter. If you only desire to do one hitch, your education will not matter, and you will be 4 to 6 years behind in your chosen field. The plus is you will have gained leadership and management skills.
You have a lot invested in your field of study, so instead of a full time commitment to the Navy, you may want to look at the Naval Reserve (an eight year commitment) as an option.
