Comparing senior military colleges in the U.S.

Hi folks, I've been doing some research on the different senior military colleges in the United States and was wondering if anyone could provide some advice or comparisons. Trying to find which one might be best for me.

It's great that you're interested in senior military colleges and you're absolutely right, carefully considering your options is a key step to finding the right fit.

There are six senior military colleges in the U.S.: Norwich University, Texas A&M University, The Citadel, Virginia Military Institute (VMI), University of North Georgia, and Virginia Tech. Each of these colleges offers a unique environment and opportunities for leadership development, education, and military training.

Norwich University in Vermont is known for its intimate environment, with a smaller student body. The college offers both a Corps of Cadets and a civilian lifestyle for students. The school has over 30 academic programs with a balance of liberal arts, tech, and professional fields.

Texas A&M University provides the opportunity to have a traditional college experience alongside military preparation. While Texas A&M does provide a regimented lifestyle through the Corps of Cadets, it also offers Division 1 athletics and a sizable non-military student body on a sizable campus in College Station.

The Citadel in South Carolina, famed for its strong emphasis on leadership education, has a tightly-knit student community. All undergraduate students are required to participate in ROTC, and there is a strong emphasis on discipline.

Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in Lexington, Virginia, offers rigorous military training in line with its mission to produce "citizen-soldiers". The academics at VMI are also challenging, with a curriculum grounded in a liberal arts foundation.

The University of North Georgia provides an environment in which students can pursue a military lifestyle while also taking advantage of opportunities at a larger state university. Military training is integrated through their Corps of Cadets.

Virginia Tech, another senior University, offers the benefits of a larger research university while maintaining a Corps of Cadets. The school has numerous strong academic programs and robust research opportunities.

It is important to visit these colleges if you can, discuss with current students or alumni, and read up extensively on their programs. Consider what you want in terms of size, setting, academic rigor, military training style, and opportunities beyond the classroom. What these colleges have in common is the emphasis on discipline, leadership, and character development which sets graduates on a prime path for military or civilian careers.