How to Apply for School and Choose the Right College after Serving in the Military.
By: Leslie Campos
After serving in the military, you may choose to apply to college and pursue a new career path in areas such as business, healthcare, finance, or information technology (IT). And while you may face some unique challenges when returning to school for the first time in years, these tips will help you to choose the right college and degree program.
Explore Career Options
As you think about returning to the classroom, you’ll need to explore potential career paths and learn about their qualifications, average salaries, and minimum education requirements. Some jobs require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, while others require apprenticeships, certifications, licenses, and/or graduate degrees.
Moreover, some college majors are more lucrative than others — including those in engineering and computer science. Many business degrees can also lead to high-paying careers in marketing, accounting, logistics, finance, human resources, and economics.
Choose the Right College
Once you’ve chosen a career path, you’ll need to find the right college for you. Some schools offer online programs in areas such as business administration, psychology, healthcare, and nursing, allowing you to earn a college degree on your own schedule and at a quicker pace.
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix, for instance, can be completed in just 16 months — and you’ll develop skills in areas such as strategic planning, accounting, economics, and corporate finance. Possible careers for MBA graduates include business managers, operations directors, and business administrators.
If online classes aren’t the right fit for you, a traditional college may be a better option. Some of the best universities for veterans include Stanford, Dartmouth, Cornell, and Georgetown.
Understand Your Education Benefits
If you’re eligible for GI Bill benefits, you can apply for education benefits online, in person, or by mail. Most claims take around 30 days to process, so it’s important to apply early on if you’re thinking of enrolling in college. Grants, scholarships, and other types of financial aid are also available to veterans and their families.
Obtain a College Education
The transition from military to college life is different for every veteran, but these tips will help you to get the ball rolling. A college education can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to set and achieve your post-military goals!
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