Military Officer with a College Degree: Pros and Cons

Hi everyone, I am contemplating going to college and then becoming a military officer. What advantages or difficulties could I encounter by having a college degree in the military officer realm? Does anybody have some personal experiences they could share?

Hello! Taking the path of earning your college degree first before becoming a military officer is quite common and opens up a variety of opportunities. Let me discuss some pros and cons of taking such a path.

The Pros:

1. Higher Starting Rank: Officers entering the military with a college degree often start at a higher rank than their counterparts who enlist straight from high school. This also translates to a higher starting salary.

2. Leadership Opportunities: A degree usually results in an officer commission, leading to leadership roles earlier on in your military career. These roles can enrich your experience and provide you with valuable skills.

3. Access to Specialized Careers: Some military career paths, such as those in intelligence or medicine, may require a degree. If you’re interested in a specific job in the military, having a degree in a relevant field could make you a more desirable candidate.

4. The GI Bill: Serving in the military can give you access to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which can help to further your education after your service.

The Cons:

1. Deferred Entry: Going to college prior to enlisting means you'll be older than your peers who enlisted right after high school. This might lead to a delay in starting your military career.

2. Financial Considerations: Although a military career offers reliable pay and benefits, the cost of a college degree can be a significant financial burden to consider before you enlist.

3. Physical and Mental Strain: The demands and challenges of military life can sometimes be physically and emotionally taxing. Balancing your self-care with the demands of your duties as an officer might prove a challenge.

Of course, individual experiences will vary depending on the person and the specific circumstances. You may want to consider speaking with military recruiters and current military officers who also pursued a degree before enlisting to get more personalized insights. Good luck with your decision!