A Degree Before The Military: Necessary or Not?

The whole idea of military has been bouncing around in my head for a while. But I'm also exploring college options. Is it a good idea to secure a degree before joining the military? Are there certain benefits to it?

Whether to secure a degree before joining the military depends on your ambitions and the specific path you want to take. Both paths have compelling benefits, and your decision can influence your rank, responsibilities, and salary in the military.

One of the key advantages of obtaining a degree before joining the military is the opportunity to enter as a commissioned officer rather than an enlisted servicemember. Officers typically have a higher pay scale and greater responsibilities than enlisted personnel. If leadership roles appeal to you, this path could be suitable.

Joining after earning a degree might include perks such as student loan repayment assistance, depending on the branch of service. The military might pay a substantial amount or even the entirety of your student loan debt as part of your service agreement.

On the other hand, joining the military before college carries its own benefits. The GI Bill, for example, provides substantial support for tuition, housing, and books to servicemembers who wish to attend college after the military.

Enlisting right after high school might be a good fit for you if you need more time to decide on a degree or if college right now doesn't feel like the right path. Furthermore, the structure and discipline of military life, as well as the experiences and skills gained, could also help you perform better academically when you choose to pursue your education.

Keep in mind that every branch of the military and every career within those branches has unique requirements and characteristics. It could be beneficial talking to current and former servicemen and servicewomen, and also contacting a recruiter, who can provide detailed information tailored to your interests and goals.

Both paths inherently have potential rewards and challenges, so carefully reflect on your own ambitions, career goals, and personal circumstances before making a decision.