If you are a military spouse who is looking to get a degree, there are some tips to help you navigate this new chapter in your life.
- Look into Taking Online Courses
Military spouses may find it difficult to attend on-campus courses because frequent relocation often prevents attending a regular college. In this case, online courses may be the answer. They give you the flexibility of working from any location and can fit in with family, work, or other responsibilities you may have.
Online courses allow you to work at your own pace, and you will have control of your learning process. Online classes willenable you to connect with your instructors and peers through their interactive ability. Because of this, more individualized attention and exposure to a diverse range of cultures and opinions are benefits.
You can access courses 24/7, making it more convenient. Another plus is that the costs are traditionally less than classes on campus. You will also be saving the cost of buying books, parking, and buying outside meals as well as on gas.
With an opportunity to find courses that challenge you, you can choose from a wide variety of classes. You may want to find out what certifications or degrees are needed in the chosen field. These might include:
- Professional license
- Certification
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
By obtaining your online degree you will be able to boost your job opportunities and career advancement.
- Find Assistance with Tuition
You can often find tuition assistance for military spouses. Included are the following programs:
- MyCAA Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts) Membership: Assists military spouses who are pursuing a license, certification, or Associates degree.
- Survivors and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA): Provides education and training opportunities and offers up to forty-five months of education benefits. The benefits can be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, correspondence courses, and on-the-job training.
- Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty and Reserves: Two educational programs Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty and Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve. The Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty can be used for college degree programs, technical or vocational courses, flight training, or classes at small business development centers. The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve provides education and training benefits to eligible members of the Selected Reserve.
- Post 9/11 GI Bill: If a service member chooses not to use their benefits can transfer them to a spouse or dependent. The service member must service for six years before electing to transfer the benefits. Once the benefits are transferred, the military service member must commit to an additional four years of service.
You might begin by starting your account with MySECO, the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) Program.
The U.S. Department of Education also provides loans and grants. Financial assistance, school guidance, career exploration, and assessment tools are all available in addition to tuition assistance for military spouses.
- Career Exploration
You will want to think about your overall career and personal goals when charting your educational course. Something that interests you both professionally and personally is the best choice. Is there an MBA (Masters of Business Administration) in your future? Are you considering a career in Human Resources?
Be sure to choose a career that offers a balance with work and your home life, and that gives you personal satisfaction. You can research the field’s job market online and ask yourself the following questions:
Will you find jobs in this field?
What part of the country offers the best opportunities?
You can find out more about career choices with a visit to the Installation Education Center. Services are available to help military spouses. There are also education counselors to assist you. You can learn more about educational programs and opportunities, scholarships, help with selecting a school and military assistance programs available.
Getting the degree is the first step in a better future. Begin your future now.