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Military-Friendly Online-Only Certification Programs

Online-only certification programs offer military members and veterans specialized learning without the multi-year commitment of a traditional degree.

Veterans and those transitioning out of the military can earn online-only and mostly online certificates in a variety of high-growth industries. If you have not explored your online education options in a while, you may be surprised to learn what options await you. 

Using the GI Bill for Online Learning

Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool on the VA official site to confirm a program has federal approval, which allows the student to use VA benefits. This tool helps you find online certifications and preparatory courses that qualify for GI Bill education benefits.

For active-duty members, the Credentialing Opportunities Online platforms for each branch list certifications that align with specific military occupational codes.

The Department of Veterans Affairs pays for approved licensing and certification test fees up to $2,000 per test. This benefit covers the cost of the examination, registration, and administrative fees. To receive payment, individuals must submit VA Form 22-0803. For preparatory courses, members must use VA Form 22-10272.

Active duty personnel may use Tuition Assistance or branch-specific credentialing programs to fund these online requirements.

GI BIll Monthly Housing Allowance for Online-Only Students

Individuals using the Post-9/11 GI Bill for a 100% online program receive a Monthly Housing Allowance equal to half the national average of the military Basic Allowance for Housing.

To receive the full allowance rate tied to a specific school location, the student must attend at least one in-person course. The VA requires students to verify their enrollment every month via text, email, or online to continue receiving these payments.

Strategies for the Successful Completion of Online Coursework

Effective completion of online certifications requires using available military academic support services. The Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support offers the Online Academic Skills Course to help members strengthen math and English foundations before starting technical certifications.

Service members should establish a consistent study schedule and utilize mobile learning applications to work during field exercises or deployments. Accessing the virtual Writing Lab provides feedback on assignments to help maintain academic standards.

Military-Friendly Online-Only Certification Programs

Logistics and Supply

• Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) VET2 Supply Chain and Logistics Management program is specifically for transitioning service members. This program features online instruction and optional internships. College Recon Georgia Tech Profile
• American Military University (AMU) provides an undergraduate certificate in Logistics Management. The program is 100% online and offers a preferred military tuition rate of $250 per credit hour. CollegeRecon AMU Overview

Justice/Law Enforcement

• East Texas A&M University has a fully online Criminal Justice Studies Graduate Certificate. It focuses on law enforcement leadership and policy development. College Recon Texas A&M profile
• Purdue Global offers an online Crime Scene Technician Certificate. This 11-month program prepares veterans for forensic roles and accepts significant transfer credit from military training. Purdue Global also offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. The curriculum focuses on defense against cyber warfare and offers tracks for transitioning service members to earn credit for their service record. CollegeRecon Purdue Global overview

Healthcare

• University of Colorado (CU) Anschutz College of Nursing provides a Veteran and Military Health Care Certificate. This 100% online program is open to both nurses and non-nurses who wish to manage healthcare systems that support veterans. CollegeRecon Profile for CU Anschutz

Business and Entrepreneurship

• Syracuse University has the veteran-friendly college program “Boots to Business” Revenue Readiness. This is a six-week online track that helps veterans turn a business idea into a workable model. CollegeRecon Syracuse University Profile
• Indiana University (Kelley School of Business) offers online business certificates that are highly ranked for veterans. They waive application fees for military members and accept most VA benefits. CollegeRecon Indiana University Profile
• Western Governors University (WGU) provides a fully online Master of Science in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance. This program is competency-based, allowing veterans to progress quickly by demonstrating existing knowledge. CollegeRecon WGU Profile
• Golden Gate University (GGU) has a fully online Bachelor of Science in Data Analytics. This program focuses on big data and statistical modeling, preparing student veterans for roles as market research analysts or budget analysts. CollegeRecon GGU Data Analytics
• The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) offers an online Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics that can be applied toward a master’s degree. It is designed for veterans seeking supervisory positions in data-driven fields. CollegeRecon UNLV Veteran Resources

Human Resources and Business Administration

Colorado State University Global (CSU Global) lists a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management. The program is specifically structured for working professionals. CollegeRecon CSU Global Profile

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) runs an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Project Management. CollegeRecon IWU Overview

Public Safety, Policy, and Homeland Security

National University includes a fully online Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. National University uses a 4-week class format, which can be useful for active-duty members and veterans. CollegeRecon National University Profile

Arizona State University (ASU) Online features a Bachelor of Science in Public Service and Public Policy. The program is consistently ranked as a top choice for veterans thanks to its support services and virtual veteran community. CollegeRecon ASU Online Profile

Navigating the Enrollment Process

Confirm that your chosen program is approved by the VA before enrolling. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool on the VA.gov website to check the status of any online certificate. Once you select a program, contact the school’s Veteran Success Center or School Certifying Official to begin the process of using your benefits. You must also apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.