Hey! I was digging into the history of military courses being accepted for college credit and I was wondering how it works now? If I take courses while in service, can these be translated into college credits? Would love to understand how this works. Thanks for the help!
Yes, it is indeed possible to convert military coursework into college credit. The American Council on Education (ACE) collaborates with the Department of Defense (DoD) to evaluate military training and experiences and recommend equivalent college credits for them. ACE provides a transcript that lists course equivalents and credits, which most colleges in the U.S. recognize and accept.
However, it's important to understand that the acceptance of these credits is up to the discretion of the individual college or university and can also depend on the specifics of the curriculum of the degree you're pursuing. For instance, a course equivalent related to military technology might be accepted for a mechanical engineering degree, but not for an English Literature degree. Moreover, some colleges may use the credit for elective requirements rather than core requirements.
In addition, there are special programs like the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), which allow service members to earn college credit from exams.
To translate your military coursework into college credits, you'll need to request your Joint Services Transcript (JST), which includes a record of your military coursework, along with the ACE credit recommendations. Then, submit this to your college's admissions office. They may have a staff member or a department, such as a Veterans Affairs Office, specifically dedicated to evaluating these documents and assisting veterans in the transition to college.
While this process can aid in making your transition from military service to college smoother, keep in mind each institution has its own policy on credit transfer. It's best to research and communicate directly with the school you're interested in for the most accurate and personalized information.
Remember, the goal is ultimately to apply your past experiences and learning towards your future academic goals in a manner that aligns best with your career trajectory. It may take some time and research, but the benefits are well worth the effort.
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