I'm currently on active duty and I'm considering furthering my education. What are some of the best college options for someone in my position? Any specific programs or schools I should look out for? Thanks in advance for the help!
Firstly, thank you for your service. It's great you're considering advancing your education while still serving.
There are multiple colleges considered highly military-friendly due to their offerings in flexibility, affordability, and being online. Some of these schools include Arizona State University, the University of Southern California, and Georgetown University, among others. These schools offer online programs that provide the flexibility necessary for active-duty military members.
Arizona State University (ASU) is well-known for its support to veterans and active-duty military members, offering a multitude of online undergraduate and graduate degrees. CougarWeb, a tool offered by ASU, allows military members to evaluate their Joint Service Transcript for college credit.
The University of Southern California (USC) is also popular among military members. Their online Master of Social Work program is of particular note because it caters to veterans and active-duty military members, preparing them for social work careers in the military community.
Georgetown University offers online programs focused on policy and government, which is often a field of interest for military members. They offer flexibility when it comes to class scheduling, which is beneficial for those with unpredictable schedules.
Finally, you should consider the financial aspects of your education as well. The Post-9/11 GI Bill can be used at any university and covers tuition, fees, a monthly housing allowance, and annual books stipend if you've served at least 36 months. It's also worthwhile to research Yellow Ribbon Schools, which indicate institutions that make additional funds available to cover education costs not covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Remember to verify if these programs are still available and meet your specific needs as policies may change. Good luck with your academic pursuits!
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