Yes, You Can Be Successful in College While Serving in the Military!

Life in the military is demanding. Your schedule is full between deployments, training, and the ever-present need to stay ready for the next mission—the idea of adding a college degree on top of all that might feel overwhelming. But here's the good news—you can do it. Yes, you can pursue your education and earn your degree while serving your country.

At Bellevue University, we've seen countless military service members just like you take that leap. They've earned degrees, advanced their careers, and set themselves up for success in the civilian world, all while managing their military duties. How did they do it? With the right resources, support, and flexible options that fit their unique schedules.

Why Go to College While on Active Duty in the Military?

Thinking about the future isn't always easy when you're focused on the present. But the reality is a college degree can open doors for you, both in the military and once you transition into civilian life. Whether you want to advance in rank or prepare for a new career, earning your degree now, while you can take full advantage of your education benefits, is one of the smartest investments in yourself you can make.

1. Expand Your Military Career Opportunities

In today's military, education matters. Completing a degree can make you more competitive for promotions and leadership roles. Whether you're looking to move up the ranks or want to specialize in a particular field, education is often the key to unlocking those opportunities.

2. Set Yourself Up for Success After Service

Not everyone stays in the military forever. When it's time to transition out, having a degree under your belt gives you a head start. Many civilian employers value the skills you've developed in the military, but pairing those skills with a relevant degree can make you even more attractive in the job market. Whether you're interested in business, technology, healthcare, or any number of fields, education helps bridge the gap between military experience and civilian careers.

3. Turn your Military Experience into Credits

Did you know your military experience and training could translate into college credit? Bellevue University values your service, and our generous credit transfer policies mean you could already be closer to a degree than you think, saving you both time and money! You may be able to convert your military training and experience into college credits utilizing DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) or CLEP exams, potentially accelerating your degree completion. Free credit evaluations are available.

4. Tuition Assistance (TA) for Military Personnel

Most active-duty service members are eligible for Military Tuition Assistance (TA). TA programs can cover a portion, or in some cases, up to 100% of your tuition costs for college courses taken during off-duty hours. The Department of Defense (DoD) provides this benefit to help service members enhance their skills and advance their careers while serving. It's important to keep in mind that TA can be used for various educational programs, including degrees, certificates, and non-college degree programs.

5. Preferred Military Tuition Rate

At Bellevue University, we recognize the unique challenges military students face and are committed to supporting your educational journey. That's why we offer a generous military tuition rate that helps make your education more affordable. This rate applies to active-duty service members and spouses of active-duty members, ensuring you can pursue your degree without financial strain. As Russ Lane, Vice President for Government Military Affairs at Bellevue, highlights, "The military reimburses at $250 per credit hour. And so we now have all of our undergraduate degrees at that price point" for military students.

6. The GI Bill®

The GI Bill®* is one of the most well-known and valuable education benefits available to veterans and service members. Depending on your length of service, you may be eligible for the GI Bill®, which can pay a portion, or in some cases, all of the tuition and fees at institutions of higher learning. Topping Up Tuition Assistance allows an active-duty student to use both their TA benefits and VA benefits for the same courses.

How to Make it Work: Flexibility is Key

At Bellevue University, we understand that your military schedule is anything but a normal work day. That's why we offer flexible learning options designed with military students in mind. With 100% online programs and courses that fit around your commitments, you have the freedom to learn on your terms. "Many employers look for workers with online learning experience because you have to be so much more disciplined," says JR Richardson, Director of the Military & Veteran Services Center at Bellevue University. "Because you're usually balancing a family, you're balancing a career, and you're going to school."

Online Learning that Fits Your Life

Since military life doesn't always operate on a 9-to-5 schedule, your education shouldn't have to either. That's why choosing a university that offers flexible, online programs designed with service members in mind is crucial. At Bellevue University, for example, you can access courses around the clock–whether you're stationed abroad, deployed, or working unpredictable hours.

Even better, online programs allow you to work on your own schedule. If a deployment comes up, you can often hit pause and pick back up when you're ready. And if you have downtime? You can speed through assignments and engage with classmates on your own schedule. Online programs still have deadlines but no set class times. As Stan Hawkins explains, "The big thing with online programs is that when a military member is deployed, they can still go to school." It's all about finding a rhythm that works for you.

Not only does online learning provide flexibility for your current military commitments, but it also sets you up for future opportunities. As Matthew Ritter, Military Program Relationship Manager at Bellevue University, points out, "When they get done with their undergraduate degree, they still have their full VA benefits to use to go on and pursue their master's afterward, or to pass on to a dependent." Online education offers the freedom to plan for your future while meeting the demands of today.

You're Not Alone: Support is Everywhere

One of the biggest fears many service members have is feeling isolated or unsupported during their college journey. But the truth is, you're far from alone. Many universities, like Bellevue, are designed with military students in mind, offering resources that help with everything from adjusting to college life to handling unique challenges like deployment or a PCS move.

At Bellevue University, you'll have access to a network of military advisors, career counselors, and even other service members navigating their educational paths. You'll find that the support is there—whether you need help with finances, academic guidance, or even just moral support when the going gets tough.

Addressing Common Concerns About Going to College While Serving

Deciding to pursue a college degree while serving in the military is a significant commitment, and it's natural to have concerns about how it might affect your life. Below, we address some of the most common worries service members face when considering education and provide reassurance that you can successfully manage your studies alongside your military responsibilities.

• What if I get deployed?
  Deployments can be a significant worry when considering college. However, most online programs, especially at Bellevue University, are designed with flexibility in mind. If you find yourself deployed, special provisions can help you receive a final grade or withdraw from courses with refunds. Communication with your instructors and academic advisors can also help you navigate these situations effectively.
• How will I manage my time?
  Balancing military duties, family life, and schoolwork can be daunting. One of the best strategies is to start small. Consider enrolling in just one or two classes to ease into the academic environment. Create a realistic schedule that incorporates your study time around your military responsibilities. Additionally, many students find it helpful to use digital tools and apps for time management, allowing them to keep track of assignments and deadlines efficiently.
• What if I struggle with the coursework?
  Transitioning back into an academic setting can be challenging, but remember—you're not alone. Bellevue University offers resources like tutoring, academic advising, and study groups designed specifically for military students. Don't hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. Many professors understand the unique challenges you face and are willing to provide extra support to help you succeed.
• Will I have to give up my current career path?
  Absolutely not! Earning a degree can enhance your current career in the military and prepare you for future civilian opportunities. Many service members choose programs that align with their military roles, allowing them to advance within the service while preparing for a successful transition. Education can also broaden your career prospects, giving you more options when you're ready to move into the civilian workforce.

Ready to Serve and Learn? Choose Bellevue

You've already proven that you can take on challenges and succeed. Serving in the military shows you have the grit, determination, and focus to handle just about anything. Earning your degree is just the next step in that journey.

So, whether you're stationed overseas, in the middle of a deployment, or balancing the demands of military life stateside, remember this: you can do it. College is within your reach, and with flexible options, military benefits, and a strong support system, your educational goals are more achievable than ever.

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