What Colleges Accept Military Training as Credits?
The United States Armed Forces offers various forms of training and education to its service members, from basic training to advanced specializations. While military training can be valuable, many colleges and universities struggle to recognize and accept these credits towards a degree. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on which colleges accept military training as credits, making it easier for veterans and service members to transition into civilian life.
What Types of Military Training are Accepted?
Not all military training is created equal, and some colleges may accept certain types of training more readily than others. Here are some common forms of military training that are often accepted by colleges:
- Basic Training: Also known as boot camp, basic training is the initial training for new recruits. Most colleges accept basic training credits towards general education requirements.
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): AIT is specialized training for military occupations. Many colleges recognize AIT credits towards technical or vocational programs.
- Officer Candidate School (OCS): OCS is a commissioned officer training program. Colleges often accept OCS credits towards liberal arts or science programs.
- Service-Specific Training: Colleges may accept training specific to a particular branch of the military, such as Marine Corps boot camp or Army ROTC.
Colleges that Accept Military Training as Credits
The following colleges and universities are known to accept military training as credits:
| College/University | Types of Military Training Accepted | Programs |
|---|---|---|
| American Military University (AMU) | All military training, including Basic Training, AIT, and OCS | Liberal arts, science, engineering, and more |
| Champlain College | Basic Training, AIT, and OCS | Liberal arts, business, and technology programs |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Military aviation training and OCS | Aerospace, engineering, and science programs |
| Marymount University | Basic Training, AIT, and OCS | Liberal arts, business, and nursing programs |
| Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) | AIT and OCS | Engineering, science, and technology programs |
| University of Phoenix | All military training, including Basic Training, AIT, and OCS | Liberal arts, business, and technology programs |
How to Transfer Military Training Credits
To transfer military training credits, follow these steps:
- Research the College’s Military Credit Policy: Contact the college’s admissions or registrar’s office to ask about their military credit policy and what types of training are accepted.
- Gather Military Training Records: Collect your military training records, including Basic Training, AIT, and OCS certificates.
- Apply to the College: Submit your application to the college and request that your military training records be evaluated for credit.
- Get Your Credits Evaluated: The college will evaluate your military training records and provide a credit transfer plan, outlining which credits are accepted and how they apply to your degree program.
Tips for Transferring Military Training Credits
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when transferring military training credits:
- Check the College’s Credit Transfer Policy: Before applying, review the college’s credit transfer policy to ensure they accept military training credits.
- Request a Credit Evaluation: Contact the college’s registrar’s office to request a credit evaluation, which will help identify which credits are accepted.
- Provide Supporting Documentation: Be prepared to provide supporting documentation, such as training certificates and course outlines, to support your credit transfer request.
- Be Patient: The credit transfer process can take time, so be patient and follow up with the college’s admissions or registrar’s office as needed.
Conclusion
Transferring military training credits can be a complex process, but with the right guidance and support, it can also be a valuable way to earn college credits and reduce the time and cost of earning a degree. By researching colleges that accept military training as credits, following the steps outlined above, and being patient and proactive, service members and veterans can make the most of their military training and set themselves up for success in civilian life.
