Hey guys, just wrapping up my junior year and I've been seriously considering going the military route with a college education. Does anyone here know how long US military colleges typically last? Like, is it a standard 4-year degree or is it totally different?
You're on the right track. The United States service academies typically offer programs that last four years, similar to civilian colleges and universities. These academies include the United States Military Academy (West Point), United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Coast Guard Academy.
While pursuing an education at one of these academies, students receive a full scholarship that covers tuition, room, and board. In return, they commit to a specified period of active duty military service upon graduation -- typically five years, but this can vary depending on the branch of service and specific occupation.
However, these are not the only options for military colleges. You can also consider the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, which prepares you for a career in maritime and transportation industries, or the senior military colleges like Virginia Tech, Texas A&M, or The Citadel, where you can pursue a typical college education while also participating in ROTC and earning a commission upon graduation. The length of these programs also tend to be about four years.
Remember that these programs are highly competitive and rigorous, both academically and physically. Make sure to thoroughly research and consider the commitment affiliated with a military academy education before making a decision.
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