Did you know that United States military is better educated than the average American?
More than 80 percent of military officers hold at least a bachelor’s degree, while just under 30 percent of the general population can say the same.
With benefits like better pay and higher rank, it’s no surprise that so many men and women in the service choose to continue their education. However, earning a degree while deployed can be a challenge.
Here are four tips for continuing your education while serving your country.
Utilize Your Education Services Office
Getting started is the hardest step of your education journey, especially when you are also getting ready for deployment. Consider visiting your branch’s Education Services Office before heading overseas to get a head start on your degree.
Military education counselors can help you establish a degree plan and prepare to study in your downtime while deployed.
Get Credit for Existing Knowledge
You don’t have to take classes to earn credits. Demonstrating your knowledge on standard exams can also earn you college credit without setting foot in a classroom.
The best part is that these exams are free for military service members, and you can take them at your military education center. You can also get some college credits for your military service.
This is a good time to talk to your superiors and find out what they can have certified as credit. This also alerts them to your career plans and makes it easier for them to help you meet your ambitions.
Enroll in Online Classes
Online classes have always been an excellent option for busy professionals, and deployed service members are no exception. Taking classes online lets you work around your schedule and complete lessons remotely from anywhere in the world.
While you can enroll in any online college or university while serving, an online university for military members can provide degree plans and class times tailored to the military lifestyle. You can also use your military education benefits to finance online classes.
Study at Your Own Pace
Completing your education isn’t a race, especially when you already have a great career in the military. Work at a steady pace that doesn’t compromise your service or your mental health. Consider taking one or two classes each semester.
other valuable tips:
4 Tips to Advance Towards a Military Career Through Higher Education
When you combine your coursework with college credit exams and service experience, you may end up graduating sooner than you think. You can also speak with your superiors about their experiences in regards to military education and find what pace has worked well for others in the past.
Remember, military life can be hectic at times. Make your education a priority whether you’re deployed or at home. Set clear goals and make time for your studies every day. Put less important activities like hobbies and socializing on the back burner when you need to focus on your education.
Image Credit: handle being deployed by envato.com
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