Guidance on Getting a College-Level Degree as a Career Military Officer

I'm pretty certain I want to become a career military officer after high school. I've heard a college-level degree is almost a requirement to move up the ranks. Does anyone have any idea what kind of degree would be the most beneficial? Also, would my choice of major matter, or is it more about leadership skills?

Starting a military career right after high school is a great plan and your interest in further education shows foresight. A college-level degree can definitely assist you in moving up the ranks in the military. Most branches even have known programs to help servicemembers earn their degrees while serving.

On the choice of major, it really depends on the sector of the military you want to join. If you're interested in defense and strategic studies, intelligence, or a related field such as international relations, politics, or history could be beneficial. For something more technical like military engineering, coursework in STEM fields would be more relevant. In the medical corps, a degree in fields like nursing, biology, or health-related disciplines is desirable.

However, the military also places a great deal of emphasis on leadership, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills—which can be gained from a variety of academic subjects. The humanities or social sciences can cultivate these skills, as can business or management courses.

Additionally, advanced degrees like Master's and Ph.D. are also looked upon favorably, especially for specialist roles or higher-ranking positions.

One example of a suitable major would be a degree in Military Science. This would provide a foundation that includes strategy, military history, and more practical leadership and management skills.

Military academies are popular options worth considering, such as the United States Military Academy (West Point) or the Naval Academy. They offer degrees in a variety of fields and provide a direct path to becoming a commissioned officer.

Remember, while your choice of major is important, the military also values the soft skills you develop through your studies and how you apply your education to your role. It's about finding that balance between academic knowledge and practical leadership skills.

So, go for a subject that genuinely intrigues you because you'll be more likely to excel in an area you're passionate about, and motivates you to learn and improve. Each skill you gain brings you more value for your military career and beyond. Good luck!