Online Military Colleges: Pros and Cons?

I've been considering the flexibility of online schooling while also fulfilling my desire to serve. Can anyone give me a breakdown of what attending an online military college can look like?

If you're considering online military colleges, you'll find that they indeed offer quite a bit of flexibility and compelling benefits, but there are also challenges to take into account.

To start, certain online military colleges provide programs in subjects that directly pertain to military knowledge and leadership, like strategic security, emergency management, or military history. If your aim is to build a career within the military or in areas related to national security, these programs can be a strong foundation.

Online degree programs also offer significant flexibility in terms of time management and location. You can essentially study at your own pace and from anywhere, which is particularly useful if you're already enlisted and balancing various responsibilities or moving around a lot.

Additionally, online military colleges often recognize prior military training and experiences, potentially offering academic credit for these, and thus, reducing the time and cost it takes to earn your degree. So, if you've already been serving, that could be a significant benefit.

Yet, there are also a few potential drawbacks. First, distance learning can be challenging for those who prefer a traditional classroom experience with direct interaction with professors and classmates. It requires a good deal of self-motivation and discipline to stick to your study schedule.

Second, not all online programs are created equal, and some carry more weight than others when it comes to job prospects. It's crucial to do your research and choose a reputable college that's properly accredited.

Lastly, if you're keen on military training that involves hands-on, practical exercises, an online platform might not fulfill all of those needs. While academic coursework can be thoroughly covered online, certain practical skills may still require in-person sessions, which could be a limitation.

So, in essence, the pros and cons of online military colleges often come down to your personal circumstances, learning style, and career goals. I suggest reaching out to the admissions offices of these colleges to discuss your goals and see how they can cater to your needs.