Fast-Track Artificial Intelligence Careers for Military Members
Are you looking for a new degree and career in artificial intelligence?
Service members can transition into the high-demand field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by using “stackable” graduate certificates and military-specific bridge programs.This can fast-track both an AI certification or degree AND an AI career.
Because the AI field moves faster than traditional academic cycles, the shortest paths involve short-term, high-impact credentials from institutions like Arizona State University and CSU Global. These programs often allow students to use military technical experience to satisfy prerequisites for advanced AI coursework.
Fast-Track Artificial Intelligence Degrees and Careers for Military Members
The fastest way to earn a degree in AI may not be via a traditional degree. Instead, consider starting with a professional certificate that is recognized by a university that can be applied as a “stackable” credential, allowing you to earn a relevant industry qualification in a few months. This then counts as credit toward a full Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the right program.
One example? Arizona State University (ASU) provides a B.S. in Computer Science with a focus on Artificial Intelligence. ASU is a participant in the AU-ABC program, which allows Air Force members to finish a bachelor’s degree in 60 credits after their CCAF.
But not all programs are offered by institutions of higher learning. Google AI offers more consumer-oriented AI training, including AI Essentials, AI for Business, and AI for Resumes.
Some making the transition from military to civilian work may need one or more of these modules to compete effectively in the civilian job market.
AI-Proof Your Career via Accelerated Online Courses
To move quickly, service members should look for schools that offer eight-week terms and have a strong focus on data science and machine learning.
- Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) offers a Bachelor’s in Computer Science with an AI specialization. They are known for their generous credit for prior learning (CPL) policies, which allow service members to test out of introductory programming and data modules.
- National University uses a unique one-class-per-month format. For a military member in a technical field, this allows for intense focus on complex AI subjects without the distraction of multiple simultaneous courses.
Under-Utilized Federal AI Training Credits
Did you participate in a program like those that were offered via the Federal Virtual Training Academy or the DoD’s Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC)? Some training modules from those programs may qualify for college credit. Some overlook these experiences when they are reviewing their college credits and military service.
While many service members take these for professional development, work in some of those programs may be presented to a university for elective or core credit. Don’t overlook your professional military education, on-the-job training, and other programs offered to those in uniform. Some of them could help speed up your AI degree.
About the author
Joe Wallace is a 13-year veteran of the United States Air Force and a former reporter/editor for Air Force Television News and the Pentagon Channel. His freelance work includes contract work for Motorola, VALoans.com, and Credit Karma. He is co-founder of Dim Art House in Springfield, Illinois, and spends his non-writing time as an abstract painter, independent publisher, and occasional filmmaker.
