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Online Schools for Military

Online Schools for Military

Returning to school is something to consider if you're weighing your options for your next steps after service. It's easier than ever to find a college program that is right for you, whether you are looking for a traditional classroom education, an online program, or a hybrid mix.

Which online programs are best? These are a small sample of major colleges and their online degree programs. We encourage you to contact them and learn more about their offerings. The following features are common practices among the best online schools for active duty military:

Accreditation: Check to see whether the school is regionally or nationally accredited.

GI Bill Acceptance: Chedk to see if the schools you are considering will accept the GI Bill.

Additional Tuition Assistance: Some schools may offer additional assistance for tuition, such as the Yellow Ribbon Program or Tuition Assistance for active duty military, which may help pay for approved school costs not covered by the GI Bill.

Best Online Schools for Military Spouses

The following features are common practices among the best online schools for military spouses.
  • Accreditation: Look for schools that are regionally or nationally accredited.
  • GI Bill: Search for schools that are approved for the GI Bill and follow the Principles of Excellence. This program requires schools that get federal funding (through programs such as the GI Bill) to follow certain guidelines.
  • Additional Tuition Assistance: Search for schools offering additional assistance for tuition, such as the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Some of the top online schools for military spouses include:

Additional Considerations for the Best Online Schools for Military Spouses

The following factors should also be considered when deciding on the best online schools for the military.
  • Graduation Rates: Typical graduation rates are around 50%. In some cases 30% may be considered acceptable depending on the program, but lower than that should raise doubts.
  • Job Placement: Does the school offer help to students to find jobs after earning their degrees? Effective job placement can be found in programs such as internships, apprenticeships, strong alumni connections, etc.
  • Program Availability: How consistently available is the degree you seek? Is the program offered intermittently, or as a regular feature of the college?

Best Online Schools for Veterans

Colorado State University Global

CSU Global has a 50% graduation rate and has consistently received high-ranking accolades including:CSU Global is a GI Bill approved school and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

University of Florida

UF has offered online degrees since 2001 and boasts a 60% graduation rate for its undergraduate degree-seeking programs. UF is consistently ranked as one of the best public universities and ranks high on “Best of” lists, including US News and World Report rankings:UF is a GI Bill-approved school, participates in the Yellow Ribbon program, and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

Pennsylvania State University World Campus

Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers over 120 Master’s degrees and graduate certificates. Penn State World consistently ranks high in national “Best of” lists, including US News and World Report rankings:Penn State World Campus is a GI Bill-approved school, participates in the Yellow Ribbon program, and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

Arizona State University

One of the best campus-based schools is also one of the Best Online Schools for Active Duty Military. ASU has a 60% graduation rate, offers over 80 online bachelor’s degree programs and nearly as many master’s programs. ASU offers the same excellent curriculum and instruction on campus and online. Arizona State University consistently receives top national accolades including:ASU is a GI Bill-approved school, participates in the Yellow Ribbon program, and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

More Online College Options for Military, Veterans, and Military Spouses

All of these schools are GI Bill-approved online colleges at press time.  All colleges and universities are also Yellow Ribbon Schools and accept Tuition Assistance funding. Some of the following schools have paid CollegeRecon for promotional consideration.

Remember, not all schools participate in the Yellow Ribbon program. While all information below was current at press time, changes in program guidelines, state or federal law, or other variables may apply. Some of the following schools may have paid CollegeRecon for promotional consideration.

Pros of Online Classes

Flexibility

Online classes offer more flexible scheduling, which is essential if you work or have family or caretaker obligations.

Lower Cost

At some schools, the tuition price for an online program is often slightly less than the on-campus version of the same program. You also won't have the added housing costs, meal plans, or commuting.

Also, online students don't need access to facilities, technology, and campus resources. These cost savings sometimes allow universities to pass these savings to the student.

Study at Your Own Pace

Not only are online degree programs flexible for your day-to-day schedule, but some schools offer Self-Paced Learning Programs. These programs allow students to complete the entire course at their own pace as long as they do so within a designated period.

Self-paced learning lets students with unpredictable schedules (military-affiliated students) enroll in a degree program without the stress of getting behind if something unexpected comes up.

Convenience

Online classes are beneficial for students in remote areas or who do not have access to reliable and consistent transportation.

More Choices

Because you are not limited to schools within your geographical area, you can tailor your search to find a program that meets your needs exactly.

Accelerated Degree Options

Online students can often complete their degrees faster than brick-and-mortar school students. Why? Because online students have access to coursework 24/7, whereas students attending classes only get access to coursework when there is a class-based lecture.

Cons of Online Classes

GI Bill Housing Allowance

If you take all your classes online, your GI Bill housing allowance, typically paid at the same rate as an E5 with dependents, will be reduced.

There are more housing stipend funds available for those taking a combination of online and in-person classes. Ask your admissions advisor or campus veteran rep about this factor. The Post-9/11 GI Bill offers a sliding scale of housing benefit payments depending on whether you attend 100% in-person, 100% online, or a hybrid of the two.

Less Interaction

Not being physically present on campus can result in less interaction with peers and instructors, which can lead to feelings of isolation. If you choose an online path, ensure you have a sound support system.

Technical Difficulties

Of course, if you're taking classes online, you are at the mercy of your internet connection. You could lose time due to power outages or connectivity issues. A hard-wired Internet connection is recommended when taking classes online.

Distractions

A dedicated, quiet area to study in is necessary for anyone completing an online degree program. You may struggle to concentrate if your home is loud, chaotic, or full of distractions. Consider having a backup location to use for classes or studying.

Staying Motivated

It can be hard to stay motivated when you are studying and learning on your own. Before deciding on an online program, assess your ability to stick to a plan, be consistent, and work hard towards your goals.

 

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