Maximize your military experience with colleges that accept military credits for easy transfer. Discover top institutions that recognize ACE credits, CLEP exams, and prior learning assessment, enabling a seamless transition to degree completion. Boost your civilian career with our comprehensive guide to military-friendly colleges and universities.
Pursuing a college education can be a challenging and daunting task, especially for those who have served in the military. However, many colleges and universities recognize the value of military experience and training, and offer credits for prior learning to help ease the transition to civilian life. This article will explore colleges that accept military credits, making it easier for veterans to transfer and complete their degree.
Earning a college degree can have a significant impact on a person's career and earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a bachelor's degree typically earn about 50% more than those with only a high school diploma. However, for those who have served in the military, the process of earning a degree can be complex and time-consuming. Many veterans have acquired skills and knowledge through their military experience, but may not have a clear understanding of how to translate these experiences into college credits.
Fortunately, many colleges and universities offer prior learning assessment (PLA) programs, which allow students to earn credits for knowledge and skills acquired through non-traditional means, such as military experience. These programs can help veterans to reduce the amount of time and money required to complete a degree, and can also help to ensure that they are not duplicating courses they have already mastered.
Colleges That Accept Military Credits
There are many colleges and universities that accept military credits, and the following list highlights some of the top institutions that offer PLA programs for veterans.
- Arizona State University (ASU): ASU offers a PLA program that allows veterans to earn up to 60 credits for prior learning. The university also has a dedicated veteran support office to help with the transition to civilian life.
- University of Maryland University College (UMUC): UMUC has a long history of serving military students, and offers a PLA program that allows veterans to earn up to 30 credits for prior learning. The university also has a dedicated veteran support office to help with the transition to civilian life.
- Purdue University Global: Purdue University Global offers a PLA program that allows veterans to earn up to 40 credits for prior learning. The university also has a dedicated veteran support office to help with the transition to civilian life.
- Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): SNHU offers a PLA program that allows veterans to earn up to 45 credits for prior learning. The university also has a dedicated veteran support office to help with the transition to civilian life.
- Western Governors University (WGU): WGU offers a PLA program that allows veterans to earn up to 30 credits for prior learning. The university also has a dedicated veteran support office to help with the transition to civilian life.
How to Transfer Military Credits
Transferring military credits to a college or university can be a complex process, but the following steps can help to ensure a smooth transition:
- Obtain a Joint Services Transcript (JST): The JST is a standardized transcript that documents a veteran's military experience and training. The transcript can be obtained through the Joint Services Transcript website.
- Research colleges that accept military credits: Not all colleges and universities accept military credits, so it's essential to research institutions that offer PLA programs for veterans.
- Submit transcripts and documentation: Once a college or university has been selected, veterans should submit their JST and any other relevant documentation to the institution's admissions office.
- Meet with an academic advisor: Once transcripts and documentation have been submitted, veterans should meet with an academic advisor to discuss their degree plan and determine which credits will transfer.
Benefits of Transferring Military Credits
Transferring military credits to a college or university can have numerous benefits for veterans, including:
- Reduced time to completion: By transferring credits, veterans can reduce the amount of time required to complete a degree, which can help to get them back into the workforce faster.
- Cost savings: Transferring credits can also help to reduce the cost of a degree, which can be a significant burden for many veterans.
- Increased earning potential: Earning a degree can have a significant impact on a person's career and earning potential, and transferring military credits can help to make this a reality for veterans.
Conclusion
Pursuing a college education can be a challenging and daunting task, especially for those who have served in the military. However, many colleges and universities recognize the value of military experience and training, and offer credits for prior learning to help ease the transition to civilian life. By researching colleges that accept military credits, obtaining a Joint Services Transcript, submitting transcripts and documentation, and meeting with an academic advisor, veterans can ensure a smooth transition and make the most of their military experience.
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We hope this article has provided valuable information on colleges that accept military credits. We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don't hesitate to reach out.