Veterans can benefit from these programs by learning how to leverage their prior experience in the military to advance in their chosen fields. Colleges that offer military programs may be an excellent resource for anybody wishing to further their education, learn a new trade, or experience something new. Schools offering military programs are an excellent option for high school students looking to get a head start on their college careers. Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs are a common way for military universities to incorporate an army perspective into more regular degree programs. This article will look at the best colleges with military programs in the USA. We would also be going through what to consider when picking a college with military programs to help make your decision process easy. Let’s them straight to it. Also read: 10 Best Grants For Military Spouses In 2023 | Application Guide
Are Colleges with Military Programs Right For You?
When deciding between a military college and a civilian university, there are several details to consider. Foremost, how eager are you to join the military and undergo training? Do not enroll in a program that will force you to spend years of your life serving in the military once you graduate unless you are genuinely committed to doing so. Can you withstand the very controlled and hierarchical atmosphere of a military college? Do you thrive in a relaxed setting where you can focus on your studies without interruptions, or do you want to be challenged in both your physical and intellectual endeavors? Want to experience the special bond you’ll have with other cadets? Read also: List of Military Colleges and their Academies in 2021
How to Choose Which Type of Colleges with Military programs Is Right for You
There are a variety of paths available to you if you want to combine military schooling with further education. You can join the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at any university or the cadet program at certain maritime universities besides the service academies, senior military schools, and junior military colleges. If you’re trying to figure out what kind of school would be best for you, there are a few things to think about: Also read: 10 Free Military Schools For Troubled Youth In 2023
How committed are you to pursue a career in the military?
The service academies are a great choice if you want to serve in the military once you graduate. You should attend a Senior Military College if you wish for military training but aren’t sure if a military career is for you.
Do you want to be around civilian students or immerse yourself in a military environment with other cadets?
Joining an ROTC program at a conventional university is the best bet if you want the best of both worlds: the camaraderie of fellow students and the discipline of the armed forces. Attending a service academy may be the best choice if you want to learn and grow among others who share your interest in becoming a military officer. If you’re interested in military training but also want to mix it up with some civilian college students, look into one of the SMCs that accepts students who aren’t cadets. Go to a Military Junior College for two years and then transfer to a four-year university to get the best of both worlds: the cadet experience and the traditional college education.
Are you a competitive applicant?
The competition for admission to service academies is fierce. Your chances of being nominated or admitted to one academy will decrease unless you have stellar academic credentials. You may opt to apply to a less competitive SMC if your grades and test scores are below those of the typical student at the academies. You may also enroll in an Early Commissioning Program at a Military Junior College. If you’re dead set on attending a service academy, you can undertake a Service Academy Preparation Program at a Military Junior College. Also check out: 10 Best Military Colleges In Georgia 2022
How do finances affect your decision?
However, money is always a consideration, so hopefully, it won’t be the deciding factor. If you’re looking for the finest possible financial arrangement, go beyond the military academies. But with the help of scholarships, you may have a similar experience at a Senior Military College or Junior Military College.
Top 20 Colleges with Military Programs in The U.S.
Many universities and colleges include military programs for those who want to serve their nation or enter the military as a profession. Students enrolled in these programs can get their Bachelor’s degree besides their military training and education. Based on criteria including academic excellence, military resources, and overall student experience, this article will showcase the best 20 institutions with military programs.
#1. U.S. Naval Academy
Founded: 1845 Location: Annapolis, Maryland Acceptance Rate: 8.4% Average yearly tuition: N/A
The United States Naval Academy has the most competitive admissions process, but graduates may look forward to a rewarding Navy or Marine Corps career. The United States Naval Academy has less than a 9% admittance rate, making it the most competitive service school. Like the other federal service academies, USNA offers those fortunate enough to be accepted free tuition and a monthly stipend. The United States Naval Academy is the second-oldest of the five United States military schools that train Navy and Marine Corps officers. At the mouth of the Severn River and the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, the United States Naval Academy (much like West Point) is on the site of a previous fort. Its closeness to Washington, D.C., is a huge plus for high school students looking into the nation’s several service academies. The beautiful and historic campus is home to Division I athletics, which compete against the Army and Air Force schools yearly. Like West Point and USAFA, Midshipmen need a nomination from a member of Congress and agree to serve once they graduate. Trainee officers can have a broad education at the Bachelor of Science level. The U.S. Naval Academy has a reputation for producing some of the best-paid graduates of any four-year university. Midshipmen uphold the Honor Concept and develop their storied traditions like their counterparts at other military academies. This is the top college with military programs. Visit School Also read up: 15+ Cheapest Online Colleges for Military Spouses & Family
#2. U.S. Military Academy (West Point)
Founded: 1802 Location: West Point, New York Acceptance Rate: 9.6% Average yearly tuition: N/A
Another top college with military programs is U.S. Military Academy. West Point has the most significant heritage and culture of any military academy since it established the standard. With a student body size of around 4,300, the United States Military Academy (USMA) is roughly on par with the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). West Point and The Academy are common nicknames for the United States Military Academy. Before the American Revolution, the college served as a military stronghold. The picturesque New York City campus is the oldest of the five American service academies and offers stunning views of the Hudson River. Many high school kids dream of attending West Point to serve their country, but only a tiny percentage of applicants are accepted. The government will pay for your college education if you are one of the lucky few. Several significant historical locations, buildings, and monuments on the West Point campus contribute to the institution’s status as a national landmark. Officer candidates, or cadets, pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. Academics, military leadership, and participation in interscholastic athletics are all required measures of success. Honor Code requirements include “do not lie, cheat, or steal” and are one of four criteria used to evaluate each cadet’s performance. The United States Military Academy is the first University in the country to provide a civil engineering degree with official recognition. Graduates are typically commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the United States Army, although they may alternatively apply for an inter-service appointment in another branch of service. The school’s students and alums are known as “The Long Gray Line,” Among its ranks are many U.S. presidents, generals, and Medal of Honor winners. Visit School
#3. U.S. Air Force Academy
Founded: 1954 Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado Acceptance Rate: 11.9% Average yearly tuition: N/A
Although relatively young, the Air Force Academy has quickly become one of the best colleges with military programs for prospective students. One of the most picturesque campuses in America is home to the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA). Those accepted into the competitive academy are given free education, despite the high standards required. The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) was established in the 1950s, making it the newest of the country’s five service schools. After graduating from the Air Force Academy, cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the United States Air Force and awarded a Bachelor of Science degree. Competition for admission to the academy is intense, and candidates must gain a congressional nomination to enter. On average, there are 1,200 cadets in each incoming class, and only 20% graduate. A cadet’s future should be in the United States Air Force or the brand-new Space Force. The tenets of “Integrity First,” “Service Before Self,” and “Excellence in All We Do” serve as a compass for the Air Force Academy. Military training, academics, athletics, and personal growth are its four pillars of success. All cadets must play intercollegiate or intramural sports in addition to their military training. Visit Scbesideshool
#4: Virginia Military Institute
Founded: 1839 Location: Lexington, Virginia Acceptance Rate: 53.1% Average yearly tuition: $18,862 per year (in-state), $45,706 per year (out-of-state)
VMI’s dedication to the military is unwavering, as the institution accepts only cadets as students. The Virginia Military Institute is another prominent American senior military college (VMI). You’ll find the United States’ first publicly funded, four-year senior military college in Lexington, Virginia. Unlike other top-tier military universities, VMI accepts only cadets as students. These young men and women in uniform can earn several Bachelor’s degrees while serving in the Corps of Cadets. Therefore, rigorous academics and physical training are together with harsh military discipline on campus. There are now 14 academic programs throughout the STEM and liberal arts spectrums available at Virginia Military Institute. It mandates ROTC enrollment for all students. Although it’s been called “the West Point of the South,” the structure of this institution sets it apart from the federal military service academies. Over 1,700 students are enrolled at the academy this year; they may pursue civilian occupations or accept officer commissions in the armed forces of the United States. Among the distinguished VMI alums are U.S. cabinet officials, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and a Medal of Honor victor. This is one of the best colleges with military programs. Visit School
#5. The Citadel
Founded: 1842 Location: Charleston, South Carolina Acceptance Rate: 81.1% Average yearly tuition: $12,516 per year (in-state), $34,988 per year (out-of-state)
With over 2,300 students and staff, The Citadel has one of the enormous uniformed bodies of any American university. The Citadel competes in several Division I sports, making it one of the significant military universities in the country. The Charleston-based school is one of the best colleges with military programs in the United States. It offers over 20 majors throughout its 18 departments (spread over 5 colleges). The public University has a distinct military studies department from the rest of its academic offerings. There is a group of cadets from South Carolina based at the Citadel. At 2,300 strong, it’s one of the largest uniformed organizations in the USA. The Corps of Cadets’ intellectual and military discipline and physical rigors go hand in hand. The Corps of Cadets mandates all members join ROTC. Each cadet can pick from five different schools, including Engineering, Science and Mathematics, Business, Education, and Humanities and Social Sciences. Another unique aspect of cadet life is the disproportionately large number of female and minority residents. The Citadel also offers a program for veterans to help them return to school and finish their degrees. Visit School Also read: $2,500 NMFA Military Spouse Scholarship 2022
#6: Valley Forge Military Academy
Founded: 1928 Location: Wayne, Pennslyvania Acceptance Rate: 100% Average yearly tuition: $29,975 per year
The Corps of Cadets program at Valley Forge Military Academy and College stands apart because it is entirely student-run. The Valley Forge Military Academy and College (VRMAC) in Wayne, Pennsylvania, is a pricey yet distinguished military institution. The military high school serves as a public two-year college and a private, coed, college preparatory boarding school for students in grades 7 through 12. Keeping with Army customs, VRMAC is like a regular military academy. Graduates can choose between military service and other professional opportunities. A distinctive feature of the Valley Forge Corps of Cadets is student-run from top to bottom. VRMAC is the only American military group that follows British rank, practice, and ceremony traditions. Moreover, the Corps of Cadets is the only institution in the United States to maintain a conventionally mounted battalion comprising one cavalry unit and one artillery battery. A cadet at “The Military College of Pennsylvania” must pass a board and receive a “Cap shield” before enrolling in the school. To join the Corps of Cadets, each cadet must pass a board and get a “Cap shield” showing their status. Visit School
#7. Georgia Military College
Founded: 1879 Location: Milledgeville, Georgia Acceptance Rate: 100% Average yearly tuition: $6,480 per year
The residential ROTC program at Georgia Military College (GMC) is relatively modest. A wide variety of courses are available at Georgia Military College (GMC). Middle school, high school, a military junior college, and an advanced placement high school are part of the military-focused educational complex. It receives funding from the state but is independent of the University System of Georgia. Located on the grounds of the historic Georgia State Capitol, the main building is significant historically and architecturally. About 250 undergraduates and cadets in the ROTC live on campus full-time. More than a thousand pupils make the daily trip to the relatively small school. The Army Early Commissioning Program includes only four military junior schools in the United States, and Georgia Military College is one of them. After two years, graduates become officers in the United States Army. Students who complete a two-year program at the University of North Georgia are eligible for a transfer scholarship to the state’s senior military college, where they can earn a four-year degree (UNG). Georgia is the only other state to have both a junior and senior military college. The Georgia Military college is also one of the best colleges with military programs in the U.S. Visit School
#8: U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Founded: 1943 Location: Kings Point, New York Acceptance Rate: 22.2% Average yearly tuition: $1,080 per year
College tuition at the United States Merchant Marine Academy is among the lowest in the country for colleges with military programs. The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is inexpensive compared to other military universities. Under $1,000 per year is spent on tuition by both in-state and out-of-state students. The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) educates officers in the maritime and military sectors of the United States armed forces. The students are “Midshipmen,” and they study topics including maritime law and marine engineering. You will also learn International law, customs, naval navigation, and ship administration. There are five U.S. service academies, and USMMA is one of them, but it doesn’t get nearly as much attention as the Air Force, Navy, or Army schools. You can pursue five majors at the Bachelor of Science level at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Marine logistics and security, marine engineering, and maritime transportation fall under this category. A vast list of famous and respected people graduated from USMMA. Visit School Also read: Pat Tillman Military Scholarship | UPDATED
#9. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Founded: 1872 Location: Blacksburg, Virginia Acceptance Rate: 70.1% Average yearly tuition: $13,620 per year (in-state), $31,908 per year (out-of-state)
One of the largest colleges with a military program is Virginia Tech University, which features both military and civilian programs. In common parlance, Virginia Tech is an abbreviation for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. You may find the main campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. The school stands out since it is one of just six senior military universities in the United States that hold this distinction. Almost 35,000 students attend the school’s highly regarded Corps of Cadets ROTC program. This public institution ranks second among Virginia’s higher education institutions in student body size. Students can choose from 280 different majors and degree options at Virginia Tech. In U.S. News & World Report’s annual ranking of the best universities in the country, public University comes in at number 74. Because of its Corps of Cadets program, Virginia Tech is also routinely voted one of the “Most Innovative” universities. It’s one of only three public schools in the United States with a military academy and a regular student body. On the main campus in Blacksburg and the cadet barracks, well over a thousand cadets make their homes. Visit School
#10. U.S. Coast Guard Academy
Founded: 1876 Location: New London, Connecticut Acceptance Rate: 15% Average yearly tuition: N/A
To a greater extent than it should be, the United States Coast Guard Academy goes unnoticed. Although not as well-known as others on our list, the United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) is one of the country’s top service schools. It is the second smallest compared to the other four U.S. military academies. The Coast Guard Academy trains its cadets to become officers in nine different specializations. However, a congressional nomination is not needed for admittance to USCGA, unlike the other U.S. military academies. The student’s ultimate goal is to become commissioned officers after completing their Bachelor of Science degrees. Following graduation, the students are commissioned as Coast Guard ensigns and must serve on active duty for five years. Performance-based learning encompasses academics, physical fitness, leadership, and character education. The United States Coast Guard Academy is unique because it does not charge its students tuition and provides them with a modest stipend for their time and effort. Traditions at the Coast Guard Academy, such as “Swab Summer” have been there since the establishment of the school. Several well-known admirals from the United States Coast Guard are among the graduates. Visit School Don’t forget to read: 38 Best Military Schools for Girls around the World
#11. La Salle Institute
Founded: 1850 Location: Troy, New York Acceptance Rate: 100% Average yearly tuition: $14,150 per year
Upon completing La Salle Institute, students can continue their education in a military establishment. There is a private college with a military program on the East Coast called La Salle Institute. The prestigious institution’s impeccable history stretches back to 1850. Educators at La Salle Institute have twice received the “School of Educational Excellence” designation from the U.S. Department of Education. It has a high acceptance rate and helps students get into elite universities and colleges, such as military service academies. Since the late 19th century, La Salle’s college-prep school has included an Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) curriculum. The HVCC Dual Credit Program provides flexible course scheduling and college credit possibilities for high school seniors interested in a military career. Numerous prominent politicians, businesspeople, engineers, and judges are among the La Salle Institute’s graduates. Visit Website
#12. New Mexico Military Institute
Founded: 1891 Location: Roswell, New Mexico Acceptance Rate: 42.3% Average yearly tuition: $4,530 per year (in-state), $14,534 per year (out-of-state)
The ECP program at “The West Point of the West” trains students to become officers. In the town of Roswell, New Mexico, locals and visitors alike may find the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI). Nearly a thousand high school and college-aged students enlist at the public military junior college. It’s the only college with a military program in the West that receives funding directly from the federal government. Several high-ranking military officials are among the prominent graduates. The rigorous intellectual and physical training at NMMI is well-known. One hundred students go on to one of the five leading U.S. military academies after completing the Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program (ECP), which trains students for officer positions. Duty, Honor, and Success are the New Mexico Military Institute creed. A two-year college, known as the “West Point of the West,” offers B.A. and B.S. degrees. Honor, integrity, and responsibility are critical to its one-of-a-kind approach to education. Visit School
#13. Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Founded: 1891 Location: Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Acceptance Rate: 83.2% Average yearly tuition: $9,728 per year (in-state), $26,106 per year (out-of-state)
Though not required, many Mass Maritime grads want to enter the military out-of-state to get their degrees. Mass Maritime and MMA are standard abbreviations for the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. Massachusetts Maritime Academy (Mass Maritime) is the nation’s second-oldest state maritime academy. The public University provides both undergraduate and graduate education in maritime-related subjects. In the late 19th century, Mass Maritime became a training school for deck and engineering officers in the United States Merchant Marine. Although many graduates of the military college serve in the active or reserve forces of the United States military, this is not a requirement of the institution.e The USTS Kennedy is a beautiful training vessel for students. The students prepare the ship to travel to several Caribbean countries. You will learn deck and engine watches, maintenance, and emergency drills as students cycle between classroom and laboratory sea training. Two notable alums are Captain Richard Phillips and George W. Duffy. Visit School Also check out: 31+ Military Children Scholarships 2022
#14. Marion Military Institute
Founded: 1842 Location: Marion, Alabama Acceptance Rate: 55.9% Average yearly tuition: $9,418 per year (in-state), $15,418 per year (out-of-state)
In terms of military education, Marion Military Institute is among the top institutions in the United States. Marion Military Institute (MMI) is a public military junior college in the southern United States. The oldest military junior college in the United States, this venerable school was founded in the middle of the nineteenth century. It’s also one of just four junior military colleges in the United States. Marion has less than 400 full-time students, making it a competitive school. Many Army programs, including ECP and ROTC, are housed at MMI. The second option allows qualifying cadets to become Second Lieutenants after only two years of university study. Students interested in applying to one of the United States’ top-tier service academies may also want to look into the SAP (Service Academy Program). Lastly, interested parties might consider enrolling in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps’ first two years or the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course (PLC). Among MMI’s illustrious graduates are some prominent U.S. military generals. Visit School
#15. California State University Maritime Academy
Founded: 1929 Location: Vallejo, California Acceptance Rate: 66.3% Average yearly tuition: $7,056 per year (in-state), $18,936 per year (out-of-state)
You may find the campus in the warm and welcoming state of California. The California State University Maritime Academy is one of the state’s public educational institutions. The Maritime Academy is one of the 23 campuses that make up the prestigious California State University system. Moreover, it is the only maritime academy in the United States located on the Pacific Coast. There is one Master’s degree and six Bachelor’s degrees available at this school. According to U.S. News & World Report’s “Regional Colleges of the West” rankings, Cal Maritime University is the best public University in California. Though continuing to serve one’s nation in the military forces is not required after high school, several opportunities exist for those interested. Less than one thousand pupils attend this school. Cal Maritime’s curriculum emphasizes integrating theory and practice, technology and culture, and global understanding and leadership. The yearly training ship Golden Bear is a highlight of the educational experience. Students can learn maritime security and policy from experts worldwide through school-sponsored study-abroad programs. Visit School
#16. University of Central Missouri
Founded: 1871 Location: Warrensburg, Missouri Acceptance Rate: 64% Average yearly tuition: Avg. cost after aid $14K
The University of Central Missouri is a public institution of higher education in Warrensburg, Missouri, offering its students a wide range of disciplines. University of Central Missouri’s military program is one of the best in the country. Veterans and active-duty service members can take advantage of this program’s educational benefits. The program is to help students achieve academic success by giving them access to military tuition aid, veterans’ benefits, and other services. The institution also has a team committed to easing the transition to college life and meeting military students’ unique academic and personal requirements. The University of Central Missouri takes great pride in its reputation as a pioneer in meeting the educational needs of America’s armed forces. Visit Website Also check: Veterans & Military Family Scholarship 2022
#17. Florida Institute of Technology
Founded: 1958 Location: Melbourne, Florida Acceptance Rate: 70% Average yearly tuition: Avg cost after aid $31K
The Florida Institute of Technology is a private institution of higher education in Melbourne, Florida, USA, offering a wide range of majors and minors, including engineering, business, and international relations. Students at the institution can join ROTC and other military-focused clubs and organizations. Veterans and active-duty military personnel can find support through FIT’s extensive military program. Veterans can get aid adjusting to civilian life and advancing their education and careers through this program. Several resources are available via the program, including help with schoolwork, guidance in choosing a professional path, and money for college. The program also helps military spouses and dependents, including help with job placement and internships. The Florida Institute of Technology will ensure the professional and academic success of military service personnel, veterans, and their families. Visit School
#18. University of North Georgia
Founded: 2013 Location: Dahlonega, Georgia Acceptance Rate: 81% Average yearly tuition: Avg cost after aid $10K
The University of North Georgia is a public institution of higher education in Dahlonega, Georgia. It is home to several highly regarded departments and programs, including engineering, commerce, and international relations. Students at the institution can join ROTC and other military-focused clubs and organizations. North Georgia University takes great pride in its extensive military education offerings. Veterans and active-duty service members can take advantage of the many benefits offered by this program. Mentoring programs, academic advising, career guidance, and other forms of counseling and guidance are all part of these offerings. The institution also hosts several programs for veterans to ease their readjustment to civilian life. The program’s stated goal is to provide all military people with the tools they need to achieve academic and professional success at the University. Visit School
#19. Texas A&M University
Founded: 1942 Location: College Station, Texas Acceptance Rate: 63% Average yearly tuition: Avg cost after aid $19K
Located in the Texas town of College Station, Programs in engineering, commerce, and international relations are just a few available at Texas A&M University, a public research institution. There is also a robust military program at Texas A&M, providing students with access to the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and other military-focused initiatives. Texas A&M University takes great pride in its long history of military service and the many resources it provides to veterans and current service members. To ease veterans’ readjustment to campus life, the University provides them with a Veteran Services Office, a Veteran Success Center, and a Military Education and Transition Office. Many financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, are available to veterans and active-duty military at this University. In addition, the institution boasts a robust ROTC program that provides students with military training alongside academics. Texas A&M University takes great pride in its commitment to serving the educational and professional needs of our nation’s military personnel and veterans. Visit School
#20. Norwich University
Founded: 1819 Location: Northfield, Vermont Acceptance Rate: 74% Average yearly tuition: Avg cost after aid $24K
Norwich University, based in Northfield, Vermont, is a military institution that provides courses in various disciplines, including engineering, commerce, and international affairs. They provide students with a solid military education and training and several athletic and extracurricular options. Norwich University, in Northfield, Vermont, is a private institution of higher learning. As the forerunner of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and the oldest private military institution in the United States, it holds a special place in American history (ROTC). Army ROTC, Air Force ROTC, and Naval ROTC are just a few of the military programs available at the University. It is the University’s largest and most well-attended program, and it trains students to become officers in the United States Army. Students interested in serving as United States Air Force or Navy officers can join the respective Air Force ROTC or Navy ROTC programs, respectively. For military education and training, Norwich University is unrivaled. Visit School
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a variety of colleges that offer great programs for military members and veterans. There is something for everyone, from large public universities to small private colleges. Whether you are looking for a traditional college experience or a more specialized program, these 20 best colleges with military programs offer various options to help you reach your educational goals. With the right resources and support, you can find the perfect school to help you reach your academic and career goals.
References
https://www.usnews.com/ – National colleges for Veterans https://www.accredited-online-college.org – Best colleges for military and ex-military
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