Is Your Online College Program Military-friendly?

An online college program typically allows a student to complete their requirements from any place and anytime the student has access to the Internet. For that reason, the online option can be a perfect fit for a military student. Before enrolling, however, students should take a close look at the college and the specific online program they are interested in.

Is this a military-friendly college?

Many institutions tack the term "military-friendly" onto marketing materials. A truly military-friendly college will provide concrete, personalized academic and financial support to active and inactive service members and their dependents.

Ask the following questions:

* Does the school recognize you as a military student?
Active duty personnel in the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard,  active Reserve members, members of the National Guard, honorably discharged veterans, and spouses and dependents of the above are eligible for military benefits at military-friendly institutions.

* Does the college have a dedicated military liaison?
As a military student, you will have distinct concerns and should look forward to distinct benefits. It will take someone who understands your situation, ideally a person with a military background, to tie it all together for you. Ask if the school has a liaison or counselor dedicated to assisting military students -- someone you can call or e-mail any questions or when you need an advocate, from your first point of contact through graduation and over the course of your career. That person may be the crucial factor in your academic success and career advancement.

* Does the school offer military scholarships and Veterans Affairs certifications?
A college that is committed to recognizing the contributions of military personnel will offer generous scholarships or grants specifically for those personnel. The financial aid process should be a one-stop shop -- will the military liaison walk you through it? Be sure the college is authorized by the Department of Veterans Affairs to certify students who qualify for the Montgomery GI Bill, the Active Duty/Selected Reserves and the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program; as well as those who qualify for VA Vocational Rehabilitation.  

* Will you receive college credit for military training?
The U.S. military is possibly the most efficient, finely-tuned educational operation in the nation. You deserve recognition for participating in that experience. Ask for a specific commitment from the school regarding college credit toward an associate, bachelor's or master's degree for military training. If possible, discuss this with your military liaison. He or she will steer you to a degree program that will help you achieve your military or civilian career goals in the most efficient manner.

What to look for in an online program

*Academic quality -- what is the college's reputation?
A host of "colleges" and "universities" crowd the Internet. How long has the institution been training students? Was it established just to take advantage of the new market in online learning or is it recognized for a tradition of providing high-quality educational experiences?

* Is the institution accredited?
Whether the school is private or public, be sure that it is accredited by the organization that oversees your career profession.

* Will this online program lead to career advancement?
How was your program developed, and what assurance do you have that you will receive the skills you need to get a job? What is the placement rate of graduates, and in what types of jobs?

For 130 years, Globe University/Minnesota School of Business has provided accredited and military-friendly degree programs. For more information about specific online degree programs offered by Globe University/Minnesota School of Business, log on to www.GlobeUniversity.edu.

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