If you’re an active duty military personnel, online education is an excellent way to maintain your academic pursuits without compromising your service. Balancing work, family, and educational goals can be daunting, but thankfully, there are various online colleges that cater to the unique challenges of military life. These programs offer flexibility in scheduling, accreditation, and a range of degree programs to choose from. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best online colleges for active duty military personnel.
First on our list is American Military University (AMU). The university offers more than 200 online programs, including undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, and certificates. AMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers a range of military-specific programs, such as Military Intelligence, Unexploded Ordnance Technician, and National Security. Additionally, AMU is a member of the Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges (SOC) Consortium, offering flexibility for military personnel who may have unpredictable schedules.
The list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The institution has been recognized as a top institution for military personnel, and it’s widely distinguished in fields such as aerospace, business, engineering, and intelligence. Embry-Riddle is a member of the SOC Consortium, making it an ideal option for those who’d want to continue their education despite their busy schedules. The university offers flexible delivery formats, including synchronous and asynchronous learning, making it easier to adapt to demanding military careers. Lastly, Embry-Riddle offers special benefits to military personnel, including reduced tuition and waived fees for active duty members.
Top Online Colleges for Active Duty Military
These online colleges offer flexible scheduling, military-friendly policies, and a variety of degree programs for active duty military personnel.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online College as an Active Duty Military Member
From tuition assistance to transfer credits, here are some important factors to consider when choosing an online college as an active duty military member.
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Benefits of Pursuing a Degree Online for Active Duty Military
Pursuing a degree online can help active duty military members balance their education with their duties and responsibilities, and offer more opportunities for career advancement.
Introduction
Many active duty military personnel find it challenging to further their education while serving their country. With the demands of their jobs, deployments, and relocations, it can be challenging to attend traditional brick-and-mortar schools. Fortunately, online education is a flexible and accessible option for military members. In this article, we will highlight some of the best online colleges for active duty military personnel.
Accreditation
When selecting an online college, it’s essential to make sure it’s accredited. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets certain educational standards. Two of the most well-known accrediting bodies are the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) and the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Many online colleges and universities maintain regional accreditation from these organizations, ensuring that their degrees hold value and recognition.
Affordability
For many military personnel, cost is a significant factor when deciding to further their education. Fortunately, several online colleges offer affordable tuition rates and other financial aid programs, such as military tuition assistance and the GI Bill. Some of the most affordable options include Western Governors University, Liberty University, and Ashworth College.
Flexibility
Since active duty military personnel can be deployed or relocated at any time, flexibility is crucial when selecting an online college. Online colleges that provide the most flexibility include the University of Florida, Colorado State University, and Penn State World Campus. These schools offer asynchronous courses, allowing members to complete coursework on their schedule. Additionally, they provide military support services, including academic advisors and veterans’ resource centers.
Programs and Degrees
Active duty military personnel have different educational goals and aspirations. Some may want to pursue undergraduate degrees, while others may want to finish their graduate degrees. Several online colleges offer military-friendly programs and degrees in a variety of fields, ranging from business to education to healthcare. Some notable schools include University of Southern California, American Military University, and Purdue University Global.
Accessibility
Not all online colleges are accessible to active duty military personnel. Some colleges may have strict admissions requirements that make it challenging to apply while on active duty. Some institutions also have residency requirements, which can be difficult for military members who move frequently. However, many online colleges have made it more accessible for active-duty military personnel to apply, including Arizona State University, Oregon State University, and the University of North Carolina.
Conclusion
Active duty military personnel have a wealth of options when it comes to selecting an online college. It’s essential to consider factors like accreditation, affordability, flexibility, available programs and degrees, and accessibility. In this article, we have highlighted some of the best online colleges for military members but also make sure to do further research and due diligence to find the college that best suits your educational and career goals.
FAQ
Question 1
What are the best online colleges for active duty military?
Answer
The best online colleges for active duty military include schools that offer flexible schedules, military-friendly policies, and tuition assistance. Some of the top online colleges include the University of Maryland Global Campus, American Public University System, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Each of these schools offers degree programs that cater to the specific needs of military personnel. They also have robust support systems in place, including military-affiliated resource centers, dedicated academic advisors, and financial aid programs for military personnel and their families.
Question 2
What is the tuition assistance for military members attending online colleges?
Answer
The tuition assistance program for military members attending online colleges varies depending on the military branch and the specific program. In general, the tuition assistance program can cover up to 100% of the tuition costs for eligible military personnel. However, there are limitations on the amount of assistance per credit hour and the total amount of assistance available per academic year. It is important for military members to check with their respective branches to learn more about the specific tuition assistance programs available to them.
Question 3
Do online colleges for military members offer credit for military experience?
Answer
Many online colleges for military members do offer credit for military experience. This can include credit for Basic Military Training (BMT), Advanced Individual Training (AIT), and other military courses or experiences. Schools that offer credit for military experience typically work with the American Council on Education (ACE) to evaluate military training and experience and determine how it can be translated into college credit. Military members should check with their chosen schools to determine if they offer credit for military experience and what their policies are regarding this type of credit.
Question 4
Can active-duty military members attend college while deployed?
Answer
Active-duty military members can attend college while deployed, but it may be challenging due to internet connectivity and time zone differences. Online colleges offer flexible schedules and self-paced courses that can make it easier for military members to complete coursework while deployed. Some colleges also have military-affiliated resource centers that can assist with academic and logistical support for deployed military members. However, it is important for military members to communicate with their schools and professors to discuss any potential challenges and work out a plan to overcome them.
Question 5
Are there any special requirements for military members to attend online colleges?
Answer
There are no special requirements for military members to attend online colleges. However, military members should check with their respective branches to ensure that their chosen schools are approved for tuition assistance. Additionally, military members should be aware of any specific application requirements for their chosen schools, such as submitting military transcripts or meeting minimum GPA requirements. Military members should also be prepared to provide documentation verifying their military status if requested by their schools.
Question 6
What types of degrees do online colleges for military members offer?
Answer
Online colleges for military members offer a wide range of degrees, from associate’s degrees to doctoral degrees. Popular degree programs for military members include business, information technology, criminal justice, and nursing. Many schools also offer degrees in military-specific fields such as cybersecurity and unmanned aircraft systems. Military members should research different degree programs and choose one that aligns with their career goals and interests.
Question 7
What are the admission requirements for online colleges for military members?
Answer
Admission requirements for online colleges for military members vary depending on the school and the program. In general, military members must have a high school diploma or equivalent to be eligible to enroll in a degree program. Some schools may also require standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, or transcripts from previous college coursework. Military members may also need to submit military transcripts or other documentation verifying their military status. It is important for military members to research the admission requirements for their chosen schools and programs to ensure that they meet all the necessary criteria.
Question 8
Can military members transfer credits from previous college coursework?
Answer
Military members can often transfer credits from previous college coursework to their chosen online degree program. However, the specific transfer policies and limitations vary between schools and programs. It is important for military members to check with their chosen schools to determine what types of credits are eligible for transfer and how many credits can be transferred. Military members may also need to submit transcripts from previous colleges or universities to their new schools for evaluation and acceptance of transfer credits.
Question 9
How long does it take to complete an online degree program for military members?
Answer
The length of time it takes to complete an online degree program for military members depends on the program and the student’s individual pace. Most online degree programs offer flexible schedules and self-paced courses that allow students to complete coursework at their own speed. However, full-time enrollment typically takes two to four years to complete a bachelor’s degree program. Part-time enrollment may take longer. Military members should consult with their chosen schools to determine the expected length of their chosen degree program and how long it may take to complete.
Question 10
Are there any scholarships available for military members attending online colleges?
Answer
Yes, there are scholarships available for military members attending online colleges. Many schools offer military-specific scholarships and financial aid programs for military personnel and their families. Additionally, there are external scholarships available from organizations such as the Military Officers Association of America and the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. Military members should research different scholarship opportunities and apply for as many as they are eligible for to help offset the cost of tuition and expenses related to attending online college.