So, I've planned on going into officer training and I've heard some chatter about online colleges that are recognized by the US military. Is pursuing a degree really necessary for my career track or it’s just an added advantage? Has anyone here done it and found it worthwhile?
It's great that you're planning ahead for your career. The necessity of a degree for a U.S. military officer comes down to current regulations: to be an officer in the U.S. military, you need a Bachelor's degree. This requirement is due to the range of knowledge needed to lead and make informed decisions in complex situations.
This doesn't mean that the degree must be from an on-campus program. An online college can certainly be a good fit, especially if balancing military service duties alongside studies. Online degrees from accredited institutions are recognized by the military, so that's a viable option.
As for the practicality and worthiness of gaining a degree - many officers find value in their education in terms of the knowledge they gain, but also leadership and problem-solving skills that come with a post-secondary education. The Bachelor's degree can offer a broader understanding of global and strategic perspectives which can be beneficial in leadership roles in the military.
Remember, education can also be beneficial for life beyond the military, offering more career opportunities if you ever decide to transition to a civilian role.
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