Colleges with military programs offer a unique opportunity for veterans and active-duty service members to further their education while receiving support and resources tailored to their specific needs.
These programs can include financial aid, career counseling, and specialized classes catering to the unique experiences and challenges military students face. Additionally, many military colleges offer access to on-campus ROTC programs and opportunities for service members to continue serving their country while completing their degrees.
Whether you’re a recent veteran looking to transition to civilian life or an active-duty service member looking to advance your career, a college with a military program can help you achieve your goals.
Table of contents
- Should I Go To College or Join the Military?
- Can You Study Military in College?
- How Many Years Does it Take to Study military?
- What Rank Do You Get If You Join the Military After College?
- Is College in the Military Free?
- Colleges with Military Programs
- 1. The United States Military Academy at West Point
- 2. The United States Air Force Academy
- 3. The United States Naval Academy
- 4. The United States Coast Guard Academy
- 5. California Maritime Academy
- 6. Texas A&M University
- 7. University of North Georgia
- 8. Virginia Military Institute
- 9. Norwich University
- 10. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
- 11. Florida Institute of Technology
- 12. The Citadel
- 13. Auburn University
- 14. University of Michigan
- 15. University of North Dakota
- FAQs – Colleges with Military Programs in 2023
- Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
Should I Go To College or Join the Military?
Whether to attend college or join the military ultimately depends on your personal goals and aspirations. College can provide you with a broad range of knowledge and skills and the opportunity to specialize in a particular field.
Joining the military can provide you with valuable skills and experiences and the opportunity to serve your country. Both options have their benefits, and it’s essential to weigh these and consider your priorities before making a decision.
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Can You Study Military in College?
Yes, it is possible to study military in college. Many colleges and universities offer military-related programs and degrees, such as military history, political science, and international relations.
Some colleges also have ROTC programs, which allow students to receive military training while earning a degree. Additionally, many colleges have resources and support systems specifically for veterans and active-duty service members.
How Many Years Does it Take to Study military?
The length of time it takes to study military in college varies depending on the program and the level of degree you are pursuing. A bachelor’s degree in a military-related field typically takes four years, while a master’s degree can take an additional two years.
Some colleges also offer ROTC programs, which can take four years to complete. Additionally, some colleges have accelerated programs that can be completed in less time.
What Rank Do You Get If You Join the Military After College?
If you join the military after college, you will typically enter as an officer rather than an enlisted member. The rank you receive will depend on your education level and the specific branch of the military you are joining.
For example, if you have a bachelor’s degree and join the Army, you will typically enter as a second lieutenant. Similarly, if you have a master’s degree, you may enter as a first lieutenant in the Airforce.
However, the rank and the specific role you will have depend on the needs of the military and the qualifications you have as an officer candidate.
Is College in the Military Free?
The military does offer several educational benefits for service members, including the opportunity to attend college for free or at a reduced cost. These benefits include the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which provides funding for tuition, housing, and other educational expenses, as well as the Tuition Assistance program, which covers the cost of college courses taken while on active duty.
However, it’s worth noting that these benefits are only partially free, service members may need to pay some out-of-pocket expenses, and some programs may have caps or other limitations. Additionally, some colleges or universities may not accept military benefits or may have different policies regarding their use.
Colleges with Military Programs
Here are our top picks of the best colleges with military programs in 2023:
- The United States Military Academy at West Point
- The United States Air Force Academy
- The United States Naval Academy
- The United States Coast Guard Academy
- California Maritime Academy
- Texas A&M University
- University of North Georgia
- Virginia Military Institute
- Norwich University
- University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
- Florida Institute of Technology
- The Citadel
- Auburn University
- University of Michigan
- University of North Dakota
1. The United States Military Academy at West Point
Located in New York, this prestigious service academy offers top-notch education and the opportunity to serve as a leader in the U.S. Army. The U.S. government fully funds tuition in exchange for a commitment to do after graduation.
The United States Military Academy at West Point is a highly selective, four-year coeducational federal service academy located in West Point, New York. The Academy is well-known for its rigorous academic program and focuses on developing leaders of character for the United States Army. The military program at West Point are to prepare cadets for careers as commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.
The skills and leadership qualities cadets develop at West Point are highly sought after by employers, and graduates of the Academy have a strong track record of success in their military and civilian careers.
If you are considering a career in the military, the military program at West Point is an excellent choice.
2. The United States Air Force Academy
The United States Air Force Academy is a four-year military service academy located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Academy is one of five federal service academies in the United States and is charged with preparing cadets for careers as commissioned officers in the U.S. Air Force.
The military program at the Air Force Academy serves to provide cadets with a well-rounded education that combines rigorous academic coursework with military training and physical conditioning.
In addition to their academic coursework, cadets participate in various military training activities, including physical fitness programs, field training exercises, and leadership development courses. These activities aims to prepare cadets for military service challenges and develop their leadership skills.
3. The United States Naval Academy
Also one of the best colleges with military programs in 2023, the United States Naval Academy is an institution for the undergraduate education of officers for the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The United States Naval Academy is located in Annapolis, Maryland. Students at the Naval Academy are called midshipmen and must participate in a military training program in addition to their academic coursework.
During their time at the Academy, midshipmen can participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and organizations. Midshipmen are also required to participate in summer training programs, which may include internships, research, or sea duty.
Upon graduation, midshipmen are commissioned as United States Navy or Marine Corps officers and are required to serve a minimum of five years on active duty.
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4. The United States Coast Guard Academy
The United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) is a four-year service academy located in New London, Connecticut, that provides a higher education and officer training program for the United States Coast Guard. Students at the Coast Guard Academy are called cadets and must participate in a military training program besides their academic coursework.
Cadets at the Coast Guard Academy must adhere to strict rules and regulations, including a dress code and strict codes of conduct. Cadets also have to participate in physical fitness training and are held to high physical fitness standards.
5. California Maritime Academy
The California Maritime Academy (CMA) is a public institution in Vallejo, California that offers a maritime-focused education and prepares students for careers in the transportation and engineering industries, including the military.
The school strongly focuses on hands-on training and experiential learning and offers a variety of programs related to maritime transportation, engineering technology, and global logistics. CMA is one of only seven degree-granting maritime academies in the United States and a member of the California State University system.
6. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University is a public research university in College Station, Texas. It is one of the largest universities in the United States and is a Texas A&M University System member. The university has a strong tradition of military service and education and offers a variety of programs and resources for students interested in pursuing a career in the military.
The university is home to the Corps of Cadets, a student military organization open to all students and provides ROTC programs for Army, Air Force, and Navy/Marine Corps. Texas A&M also offers veterans services and resources, including the Veterans Resource and Support Center.
7. University of North Georgia
The University of North Georgia’s military program is one of the most diverse and comprehensive in the country. The university has an established track record of providing top-notch training to future officers. They offer a variety of academic programs and services to ensure that their students are well ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
Their faculty members are dedicated to helping students succeed academically and personally. They are committed to providing a high level of individualized attention and support and work closely with our students to help them reach their goals.
8. Virginia Military Institute
The Virginia Military Institute is a military college in Lexington, Virginia. VMI’s military program begins with the first of three phases, Basic Cadet Training (BCT), which is designed to develop physical fitness and a strong esprit de corps in each new member of the corps of cadets.
The second phase is Field Training (FT), a rigorous indoctrination period that emulates active duty Army operations. The third phase allows the student to concentrate on one of many majors or sub-majors within the Corps of Cadets’ academic offerings. Each student must complete all three phases before they can graduate.
9. Norwich University
Norwich University is a private military college located in Northfield, Vermont. Founded in 1819, it is the oldest private military college in the United States. The university offers a variety of programs and resources for students interested in pursuing a career in the military, including ROTC programs for the Army, Air Force, and Navy/Marine Corps. It also has a strong tradition of military education, and its Corps of Cadets program is a central feature of student life at the university.
The Corps of Cadets is a student military organization open to all students, and the program provides students with leadership training, physical fitness, and other skills that are valuable for a career in the military. Additionally, Norwich University offers a diverse range of academic programs and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
10. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
The University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, is a public research university in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The University of Colorado, Colorado Springs military program is available for all active-duty, Guard, and Reserve service members and qualified veterans. This program is designed to help students achieve their educational goals while serving in the military.
11. Florida Institute of Technology
The military program at the Florida Institute of Technology is designed specifically for military personnel, veterans, and their families. They offer a variety of benefits and resources to support their academic and professional goals.
One of the standout features of the program is its flexibility. Military students can attend classes on campus, online, or through a combination of both, depending on their schedule and location. This allows them to continue serving their country while also pursuing their education.
In addition to its flexible format, the Florida Institute of Technology program offers a range of academic support services, including tutoring, writing assistance, and career counseling. These services are designed to help military students succeed in their studies and achieve their goals.
If you are considering continuing your education, you should look closely at this program.
12. The Citadel
The Citadel, located in Charleston, South Carolina, also offers military programs to interested students. Many students attend The Citadel because of its location. Charleston is a historic and beautiful city, offering students a unique blend of military tradition and Southern charm.
Another reason they prefer The Citadel’s military program is their tuition fees. They offer various financial aid options, including scholarships and grants, to help students afford their education.
The Citadel is known for its reputation for producing top-quality military leaders. They have rigorous academic and military training, which prepares students for leadership roles in the armed forces.
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13. Auburn University
Auburn University offers a military program for students interested in serving in the armed forces. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in the military by providing them with the necessary knowledge, skills, and training.
One notable reason to attend Auburn University’s military program is its tuition fees. They offer in-state tuition rates for military personnel and their dependents, which can save students a significant amount of money on their education.
Overall, Auburn University’s military program is an excellent choice for students looking to serve in the armed forces. With affordable tuition rates and top-notch faculty and resources, it is a great place to start or continue your military career.
14. University of Michigan
This is another one of the best colleges with military programs. One unique aspect of the University of Michigan’s military program is the Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter on campus. The SVA is a nationwide organization that supports military veterans in higher education, and the University of Michigan’s chapter is particularly active and influential.
In addition to the SVA, the University of Michigan also has a Military and Veterans Services office, which provides support services for military-affiliated students. These services include assistance with the VA benefits process, academic support, and career counseling.
The University of Michigan is also home to a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, which provides college students with the opportunity to receive military officer training while completing their undergraduate degrees.
15. University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota (UND) has a strong military presence and offers a variety of programs and resources for military-affiliated students.
UND also has a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, which provides college students with the opportunity to receive military officer training while completing their undergraduate degrees. The ROTC program at UND is open to students from all majors and offers scholarships to those who qualify.
UND also has a Veterans Services office, which provides support services for military-affiliated students, including assistance with the VA benefits process, academic support, and career counseling.
Overall, the University of North Dakota has a strong commitment to supporting military-affiliated students and helping them succeed in their academic and professional endeavors.
FAQs – Colleges with Military Programs in 2023
The best age to join the military varies depending on the individual and their circumstances. Generally, the minimum age to join the military is 17 with parental consent, and the maximum age to join varies by branch, with the oldest age being 42 for the Army and 35 for the Navy.
The maximum age to join the military varies by branch, with the oldest age being 42 for the Army and 35 for the Navy. It’s generally considered too late to join if you’re older than the maximum age limit.
Joining the military can offer various benefits, such as education and training opportunities, job security, travel, and a sense of pride and purpose. Additionally, veterans are eligible for a wide range of health care, educational benefits and home loan, retirement pay, and disability compensation.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning about these 15 colleges with military programs in 2023. Whether you’re considering joining the military or are just looking for a college with military programs, these colleges offer a range of resources and support for military students. These colleges are dedicated to helping military students succeed, from academic support to career services.
If you’re interested in learning more about these colleges or exploring your options for military programs, visit their websites and contact their admissions offices. With their strong track record of success and commitment to military students, these colleges are worth considering.
References
- mydegreeguide.com – Military-Friendly Colleges
- research.com – Universities and Colleges for Military Students
- thebestschools.org – Resources for Military Academies
