Lifelong Learning Opportunities in the Army

Hey guys, I'm a high school junior and am considering a military path post-graduation. I value education and continuous learning, so I'm curious about the Army's stand on lifelong learning. What opportunities would I have for ongoing education if I choose to join the Army?

The U.S. Army actually hones a strong focus on education and provides numerous opportunities for Soldiers to continue learning and advancing their knowledge. Whether you choose to further your career in the military or transition to civilian life at some point, the skills and qualifications you gain will greatly contribute to your resume.

One of the main educational benefits offered by the Army is the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Under this program, you can receive comprehensive education benefits if you've served at least 90 days on active duty after September 10, 2001. These may cover the full tuition for in-state students at public universities, some private and international school tuition, housing costs, and even book stipends.

Keep in mind that one of the unique features of the 9/11 GI Bill is its transferability. Once you've served at least six years, and agree to serve four more, you can transfer these benefits to a spouse or children.

Another program you might find beneficial is the Army's Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). It covers the costs of tuition and some fees for enlisted soldiers, which allows you to continue your education while actively serving. It can be used for vocational training, undergraduate programs, graduate programs, and more.

In tandem with these benefits, the Army also provides services like the Army Credentialing Assistance program, which helps Soldiers earn industry-recognized credentials that align with their military occupational specialty (MOS) or career goals. These credentials can be extremely valuable in the civilian job market.

Moreover, the Army operates a number of schools and training centers that provide professional development and skills training, as well as leadership experience. Whether it's the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, the Army's Ranger School, or Officer Candidate School, there's space to learn a variety of skills for all career stages.

You should know that serving the military does not stop you from being a lifelong learner. In fact, it can open up numerous educational opportunities and provide a useful vehicle for career advancement. However, simultaneous deployment/training and studying comes with its challenges—so time management is key.