Combine Service and Studies: College in the Military

I'm considering serving in the military, but I also want to go to college. How do these two paths intertwine? Can I study while serving or is it something that happens post-service? I'd appreciate if someone could break down this process for me.

Yes, it is definitely possible and quite common to combine service in the military with college studies.There are two common pathways for doing this: Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs and military service academies. In both of these cases, your education happens first, and you commit to serve in the military post-graduation.

ROTC programs are available at many colleges and universities and combine your regular college studies with military training. Depending on the branch of service, you could have up to100% of your tuition covered in exchange for service after graduation.Similarly, military service academies, like the U.S. Naval Academy or U.S. Military Academy at West Point, offer a full four-year college program. Graduates of these academies are commissioned as officers and have a service requirement after graduation, usually five years of active duty and three years in reserves.

If you're considering military service post-college, there's another option: the GI Bill. This provides financial assistance to veterans, covering part or all of your tuition for college, vocational school, or other training programs after you've completed your service.

Then there's the option of studying while actively serving. Many military branches offer tuition assistance programs for active-duty service members seeking to pursue a degree during off-duty hours. Keep in mind, juggling active duty and college could be challenging but definitely doable, and online courses could be a good fit for such scenarios.Finally, there are opportunities within the military for further training and specialization, which could be a form of ongoing education, too. For example, if you join the Navy as a healthcare worker, the Navy would provide job-specific training and coursework.

These are just a few examples of how military service and college studies can intertwine. The best path for you would depend on your personal circumstances, interests, and long-term career goals. Every option comes with commitment, so it's good to research thoroughly and discuss with a mentor or counselor before making your decision.