Getting a College Degree while serving in the Military

Hey everyone! I'm thinking about the military after high school but I don't want to lose out on the chance for a college degree. Is it feasible to get a degree while you're in the military? How would that work?

Absolutely, serving in the military does not exclude you from pursuing a college degree. In fact, the Armed Forces offer some wonderful educational benefits that can make it financially feasible to earn a degree either while serving or afterward.

There are a few different routes you could take. First, you can enlist and then take classes online or in-person in your off-duty hours. Many military bases have education centers that offer college courses, or you could enroll in online classes from accredited institutions.

If you attend a four-year college before serving, you could consider ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps). This program offers scholarships that cover up to full tuition and fees in exchange for agreeing to serve in the military post-graduation.

Alternatively, there are colleges designated as military service academies, like the U.S. Naval Academy or West Point, where you receive a college education and complete military training concurrently. Admission to these academies is highly competitive.

Lastly, the GI Bill is a major benefit to consider. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, for instance, provides education benefits like tuition and fees, a housing allowance, and stipends for books and supplies. You're generally eligible if you've served at least 90 days on active duty after September 11, 2001, though benefits can vary based on service length.

Lastly, remember to discuss your educational goals with your recruiter when you enlist. They may be able to offer guidance on how to pursue a degree based on the branch and occupation you're considering!