Sorting through Military Colleges and Universities in the USA

Hi. So, I’ve been considering the military route after high school. Can anyone suggest how I should go about choosing between the different military colleges and universities in the USA? What factors should I consider?

Sure, glad to help you navigate this decision. Military colleges and universities offer quite diverse programs, so your choice would largely depend on your interests and career goals. Here are a few factors you may want to consider:

1. Branch of Military: Different military academies cater to different branches of the military - the Navy, Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, or the Merchant Marine. If you already have a specific branch in mind, you could start by looking at the academies associated with that branch.

2. Degree Programs: While all military colleges will prepare you for a career in the military, they also offer academic degree programs much like civilian institutions. Fields of study can range from engineering to humanities, so you'll want to choose a school that offers a program in line with your academic interests.

3. Service Commitment: After graduation, there is typically a service commitment, which can range from five to eight years. Make sure you're prepared for this commitment.

4. Admissions Requirements: Military academies often require a nomination from a government official (like a U.S. Representative or Senator), in addition to meeting rigorous academic and physical standards.

5. ROTC Programs: If you want a degree from a civilian university along with military training and a path to becoming a commissioned officer, you could consider colleges that offer ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) programs. These are offered by all branches of the U.S. military.

6. Quality of Life and Cadet/Campus Culture: Lastly, you might want to research the culture at each academy. This can include the expectations of cadets, the level of competitiveness, the regimentation of daily life, and the general environment on campus.

Remember to talk to current students or alumni if you can, to get a first-hand account of what it’s like to attend each college. It's important to choose an academy where you feel that you'll thrive, not just survive. Good luck!