Can You Go to College While in the Air Force?
The short answer is: YES, you can go to college while serving in the Air Force. As an Air Force member, you have various options to continue your education and career goals while still serving your country. In this article, we will explore the options available to you.
Contents
Types of Programs Available
The Air Force offers various programs that allow its members to pursue higher education. These programs cater to different needs, interests, and career goals. Some of the notable programs include:
- Air Force Scholarship Program: This program offers scholarships to Air Force personnel who wish to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees in specified fields such as mathematics, science, and languages.
- Air Force Military Tuition Assistance: The Air Force provides up to $4,000 in tuition assistance per fiscal year to support the educational endeavors of its members.
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) for Active Duty: The MGIB is a vocational, technical, and graduate training program that provides benefits for education, training, or apprenticeship programs.
- Troops-to-Teachers: This program allows Air Force personnel to convert their military experience and training into teaching certifications, which can be used to obtain jobs in schools.
Enlisted-to-OFFicer Commissioned Options
In addition to the academic programs mentioned earlier, there are also enlisted-to-officer commissioned options that allow you to join the Air Force as an enlisted member and later receive an officer commission. Here are some options:
- Airman-to-Officers’ Commission Program (AFOCP): This program allows select senior airmen (E-5 and above) to pursue a commissioned officer career. AFOCP participants undergo officer candidate school and complete a 26-week commissioned officer’s orientation course.
- Fleet Enlisted Tactical Controller (FETC): FETCs undergo a rigorous training program to become air traffic control tower controllers and can become officer candidates upon completion.
Benefits of Pursuing College While in the Air Force
Pursuing a higher education while serving in the Air Force has many benefits. These include:
- Development of critical thinking skills: Higher education helps build problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills essential for success in the military.
- Enhanced leadership skills: Pursuing higher education can lead to greater leadership roles within the Air Force and contribute to professional growth and advancement.
- More opportunities for advancement: Educated Air Force members can rise through the ranks and advance to senior positions more easily.
- Tuition assistance: The Air Force provides generous tuition assistance for its members, allowing you to focus on your studies without breaking the bank.
Common FAQ’s and Requirements
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) about going to college while serving in the Air Force, as well as some basic requirements:
| FAQs | Answers |
|---|---|
| Am I eligible for Tuition Assistance if I am serving in the Air Force Reserves? | NO, tuition assistance is available only to active duty airmen. However, the Air Force Reserve does offer some educational assistance. |
| Can I go to college while being an officer? | YES, officer candidates may choose to attend college concurrently or after completion of the officers’ basic course (OBC). |
| Can I use Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) if I am already serving in the Air Force? | YES, MGIB can be used for continuing education, as long as it is in a credit-approved program and meets MGIB requirements. |
- Eligibility: Eligible Air Force members typically hold a valid military identification and have at least two years of military service.
- Transcripts and Accreditation: Colleges should validate the credit transfer for education earned through military schools or training.
Pursuing a Doctorate While Serving in the Air Force
Pursuing a doctoral degree while serving in the Air Force is challenging, but possible. Air Force members may choose to continue their education through the Air Force’s fellowship program, which covers tuition, fees, and living expenses for certain educational pursuits. Additionally, the Uniformed Services University (USU) of the Health Sciences offers master’s and doctoral programs tailored for military officers.
Conclusion
Pursuing a higher education while serving in the Air Force offers a unique set of challenges, but also numerous opportunities. With various programs, eligibility requirements, and fellowship opportunities available, it’s definitely possible to go to college while serving in the Air Force. By making use of the resources offered by the Air Force and working hard to achieve their education goals, Air Force personnel can rise through the ranks, build a better life, and contribute to national security in meaningful ways.
Important Links
