A guide for service members separating from the military who are seeking continued education and training for a successful career after honorably

Transcription

1 Veterans Education Guide A guide for service members separating from the military who are seeking continued education and training for a successful career after honorably serving their country.

2 2 Veterans Education Guide Veterans Education Guide Richard A. Fitzpatrick

3 Table of Contents iii Table of Contents Veterans Education Guide... 2 Richard A. Fitzpatrick... 2 Table of Contents... iii Introduction... vii Chapter 1: Veterans Education Benefits... 3 Post-Vietnam-Era Veterans Education... 3 Montgomery GI Bill... 3 $600 Buy-Up Program... 4 GI Bill Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training (OJT) Programs... 4 Post 9/11 GI Bill... 5 Transferability of Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits... 6 Period of Benefit... 8 U.S. Department of Education Financial Aid Programs... 8 Application... 9 VA Benefits and Federal Student Aid... 9 Family Members... 9 Readmission to Postsecondary Institutions State Veteran's Benefits Additional State Veteran Affairs Resources Chapter 2: Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB) VUB Program Services Assistance with applications to the college or university of choice VUB Eligibility... 16

4 iv Veterans Education Guide VUB Scholarship Information Chapter 3: Job Corps Helping Veterans Start New Careers What Happens at Job Corps What Job Corps Offers to Veterans Eligibility Chapter 4: Licensing, Certification and Vocational Services Licensing and Certification Professional Credentialing Collegiate Credit for Professional Certification (CCAF) Vocational Services Transcripts of Military Education and Training Army Navy and Marines Air Force Coast Guard Veterans Chapter 5: Additional Education and Training Options Guidance Counseling Career Assessment Academic Planning Vocational Services Licensing and Certification Chapter 6: Military Friendly Schools and Employers Top 10 Online Military Friendly Colleges Columbia College Strayer University... 40

5 Table of Contents v 3. Northcentral University Cappella University Excelsior College Drexel University Walden University Kaplan University Colorado Technical University Ashworth College Military Friendly Employers Military Resume Writing Services Resources References Index... 51

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7 Introduction vii Introduction Service members leaving the military often struggle to find the civilian career they want and the specific education and training they need to achieve it. The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) was designed to help service member s transition from military to civilian life, and addresses many different challenges facing the service member. This manual addresses specific information and guidance for the service member who is seeking continued education and benefits available to veterans. The transition from military to civilian life includes assessing and evaluating your options for future success, and that success depends on having the right education or training. You need to evaluate your education status and options, now is the best time to start. In order to achieve your career goals, you may need more formal education or training; this manual will advise you on nontraditional educational opportunities that can make it easier for you to get a diploma, vocational certificate, or college degree. Whether you served four years or thirty four years, this manual will identify what benefits are available for you and how to put them to use. You can earn a college degree or get the vocational training you need to get the job you want. We will even provide a list of military friendly colleges and universities, as well as military friendly employers. This manual will be a career guide for the next chapter of your life after honorably serving your country.

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9 Chapter One Veterans Education Benefits

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11 Veterans Education Benefits 3 Chapter 1: Veterans Education Benefits The VA administers and provides financial assistance to several veterans education programs. Included are college degree programs, technical and vocational programs, correspondence courses, flight training courses, and on-the-job training (OJT) and apprenticeship programs. In order for a program to be eligible for VA funding, it must be accredited by a state-approving agency. Programs for which VA financial assistance is available are the Post-Vietnam-era Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP), the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and the Post 9/11 GI Bill. As a rule, the benefits under VEAP and MGIB must be used within 10 years of separation from active duty. You have 15 years to use Post- 9/11 benefits. Post-Vietnam-Era Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP) With the exception of few veterans who signed delayed entry contracts before January 1, 1977, VEAP is for those veterans who first entered active duty between January 1, 1977 and June 30, 1985, and who made a contribution to a VEAP account before April 1, Service members who participated in VEAP but withdrew their contributions may start new allotments or make lump-sum contributions at any time while they are on active duty. Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) With the exception of some officers commissioned after December 31, 1976, the MGIB is for those Service members and veterans who came on active duty on July 1, 1985, or later and who did not decline in writing to participate in the MGIB program. To be eligible for the full 36 months of MGIB benefits, veterans must normally meet the character of service and minimum length of service requirements. Some veterans who are separated from active duty early for the convenience of the government may also receive the full 36 months of MGIB benefits. Depending on the reason for separation, other veterans who are

12 4 Veterans Education Guide separated from active duty early may be eligible for reduced MGIB benefits, prorated based on length of active duty; one month of benefits for each full month of active duty. Some veterans who were eligible for the Vietnam Era GI Bill (VRA) have increased MGIB eligibility. They must have had some remaining VRA entitlement on December 31, 1989, when all benefits under the VRA expired. With some exceptions, they must have served on active duty from July 1, 1985 through June 30, For these veterans, the 10-year period of time in which they must use MGIB benefits is reduced by any time, from January 1, 1977 through June 30, 1985, that they were not on active duty. Individuals who are involuntarily separated from the military and who were not originally eligible for the MGIB may have a second opportunity to receive MGIB Benefits. This includes officers not normally eligible for the MGIB because they were commissioned after December 31, 1976 as a result of graduating from a service academy or after completing a ROTC scholarship, and people who declined to participate in the MGIB. Contact your Education Center or VA for details. MGIB eligibility can be complex. If you have questions about MGIB eligibility, check with your Education Center, or call the VA toll-free education number, GI Bill-1 ( ). You may also get information at the VA Education Service website $600 Buy-Up Program For every $20 you contribute, you can receive an additional $5 on your monthly MGIB fulltime rate. If you re eligible for the maximum 36 months of MGIB benefits, contributing the total $600 will increase you total benefit by $5,400. GI Bill Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training (OJT) Programs When training on a new job, you can receive benefits from the VA in conjunction with your salary while you are enrolled in the program. You will receive approximately: 75% of the full-time benefit for each full month of training during the first six months of training. 55% of the full-time benefit for each full month of training during the second six months of training.

13 Veterans Education Benefits 5 35% of the full-time benefit for each full month of training during the remainder of the training. If you are qualified for the MGIB or the Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) and you have or are planning to start a new job or apprenticeship program, you can apply for this benefit. In some cases, the VA will even pay retroactively for OJT from the past 12 months. Post 9/11 GI Bill The Post 9/11 GI Bill is an education benefit program that provides Service members, Veterans, and some dependents with college tuition and stipends for housing and books. This program went into effect August 1, 2009 and applies to college courses taken after July 30, To qualify, you must serve a minimum of 90 days on active duty after September 10, This includes active duty service as a member of the Armed Forces or as a result of a call-up or order to active duty from a reserve component (National Guard and Reserve) under certain sections of Title 10 or Title 32. Effective August 1, 2009 but not payable until October 1, 2011, qualifying service expands the Post 9/11 GI Bill to include Active Service performed by National Guard members under title 32 USC for the purpose of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the National Guard; or under section 502(f) for the purpose of responding to a national emergency. Benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill vary depending on a Service member s state of residence, number of education units taken, and amount of post September 11, 2001 active duty service. The total percentage of benefits eligibility aligns with active duty service as follows: 100% 36 or more cumulative months 100% 30 or more consecutive days with disability-related discharge 90% 30 or more cumulative months 80% 24 or more cumulative months 70% 18 or more cumulative months 60% 12 or more cumulative months 50% 6 or more cumulative months 40% 90 or more days

14 6 Veterans Education Guide Some periods of active duty service are excluded. Periods of service under the following do not count toward qualification for the Post 9/11 GI Bill: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Public Health Service (PHS), or Active Guard Reserve ROTC under 10 USC 2107(b) Service academy contract period Service terminated due to defective enlistment agreement Service used for loan repayment Selected reserve service used to establish eligibility under the MGIB (MGIB chapter 30), MGIB-SR (MGIB-SR Chapter 1606), or the Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP chapter 1607). Learn more about the Post 9/11 GI Bill by downloading the VA Post 9/11 GI Bill Pamphlet (PDF) at: Transferability of Post 9/11 GI Bill Benefits In order to transfer this benefit to one s dependents, the Service member must elect the Post 911 GI Bill, at which time all benefits under the MGIB are forfeited. Transferability became effective August 1, 2009, and for those in the PHS and NOAA, the effective date is August 1, Service Secretaries have approval authority for transferability (it is NOT a guaranteed entitlement). To transfer benefits, the Service member must be in the Armed Forces on or after August 1, Members who separate from active duty, or who leave the Selected Reserve prior to this date are ineligible to submit an application. Members who retire or transfer to the Retired Reserve prior to this date are ineligible to submit an application.

15 Veterans Education Benefits 7 Members must have completed at least six years of service in the Armed Forces and agree to serve four more years in the Armed Forces from the date of application in order to transfer benefits. Applicability applies to any member serving in the Armed Forces on or after August 1, 2009, or in the PHS and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration after August 1, 2011, who: Has served a minimum of six years of service in the Armed Forces (active duty and/or Selected Reserve) and agrees to serve an additional four years in the Armed Forces, or Has served more than 10 years of service in the Armed Forces (active duty and/or Selected Reserve) and is precluded by standard service or Department of Defense (DoD) policy (e.g., High Year Tenure, Reduction in Force) from completing the full four year obligation, and agrees to serve such additional time up to the service-specific policy, or is or will become eligible to retire, transfer to Fleet Reserve or Transfer to the Retired Reserve during the period of August 1, 2009 through August 1, 2013 and agrees to serve the additional period, if any, as specified below. (A Service member is considered retirement eligible if he or she has completed 20 years of active Federal service, or 20 qualifying years of service for Selected Reserve). Transfer of benefits may be to a spouse, child, or a combination of both, as reported via Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System (DEERS). The following rules apply: Service members can add dependents, revoke or change election while in the Armed Forces. Service members can only revoke or make election changes after leaving the Armed Forces; they cannot add dependents. Veterans may transfer up to 36 months of educational benefits or remaining entitlement months if benefits are already used prior to conversion from another educational program. This benefit is not considered in any property settlement resulting from a divorce. In Dual Military Couples, both Service members may transfer benefits to dependents.

16 8 Veterans Education Guide Child must enroll full-time in school and Member must update DEERS with this information. Spouse may use benefits immediately if the Service member has completed a minimum of six years of service in the Armed Forces. A child may use benefits after the Service member has completed 10 years of service in the Armed Forces. Period of Benefit Spouse: Up to member s 15 year delimiting date Child: From age 18 up to age 26 (regardless of member s 15 year delimiting date) Must have received High School Diploma, General Education Development (GED), or equivalent, or reached age 18. U.S. Department of Education Financial Aid Programs Federal Student Aid is an office of the U.S. Department of Education and offers billions of dollars in financial aid to help millions of students manage the cost of education each year. There are three categories of federal student aid: 1. Grants 2. Work-study 3. Loans Even if you are still on active duty, you can apply for financial aid such as Pell Grants or Federal Stafford Loans. See the Resources section of this manual for website and Contact information. Eligibility for federal student aid is based on financial need and several other factors. The financial aid administrator at the college or career school you plan to attend will determine your eligibility. Generally, eligible applicants: Demonstrate financial need (except for certain loans your school can explain which loans are not need-based). Have a high school diploma or a GED certificate; pass a test approved by the U.S. Department of Education; meet other standards your state establishes that the Department approves;

17 Veterans Education Benefits 9 or complete a high school education in a home school setting that is treated as such under state law. Be working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program. Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen. Have a valid Social Security Number (unless you re from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau). Register with the Selective Service, if required. Maintain satisfactory academic progress once in school. Certify that you are not in default on a federal student loan and do not owe money on a federal student grant. Certify that you will use federal student aid only for educational purposes. Application You can apply online or in writing by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Get further instructions on the application process at You may also apply for a Federal Student Aid Personal Identification Number (PIN) which allows you to sign your application electronically at You can register with the Selective Service electronically or in writing. For more information, visit or call (TTY users can call ) VA Benefits and Federal Student Aid Veterans educational benefits can still be used in conjunction with Federal Student Aid. The application includes this query, which the school will take into account when computing and preparing your aid package. Family Members Federal Student Aid provides a tool called FAFSA4caster, which is designed to help students and their families plan for college. The FAFSA4caster provides students with an early estimate of their eligibility for federal student financial assistance. Military dependents that are

18 10 Veterans Education Guide enrolled in college and are eligible to receive Pell Grants should check out two new programs: Academic Competitiveness Grants and National Sailor and Marine ACE Registry Transcript Grants (National SMART Grants). Readmission to Postsecondary Institutions The College Affordability and Opportunity Act, commonly referred to as the Higher Education Act, guarantees readmission rights for Service members. An institution of higher education may not deny readmission to a Service member who was a student but had to leave the institution to serve in the uniformed services. Furthermore, the Service member must be promptly readmitted with the same academic status. To qualify for readmission, the Service member must have served voluntarily or involuntarily in the Armed Forces, National Guard, or Reserves on active duty, or on active duty for training or full time National Guard duty under Federal Authority, for more than 30 consecutive days. An otherwise eligible Service member qualifies for readmission if: The institution is given notice of absence for service The cumulative length of absences does not exceed five years The student gives notice of intention to return to school The institution is not required to readmit the Service member if: The institution determines that the student is not prepared to resume the study where the Service member left off There are no reasonable efforts the institution can take to prepare the student to resume or complete the program of study State Veteran's Benefits Many states offer veterans benefits. These benefits may include educational grants and scholarships, special exemptions or discounts on fees and taxes, home loans, veteran's homes, free hunting and fishing privileges, and more.

19 Veterans Education Benefits 11 Each state manages its own benefit programs. The following is a list of links to the websites for each of the individual states that offer veterans benefits. Be sure to take advantage of the benefits you have earned by clicking on the link to your State Department of Veterans Affairs: Additional State Veteran Affairs Resources The National Association of Directors of State Veterans Affairs (NADSVA) maintains a list of 50 states and four territorial (common wealth) Veterans Affairs offices on their website at:

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21 Chapter 2 Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB)

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23 Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB) 15 Chapter 2: Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB) The VUB Program is a free U.S. Department of Education program designed to help eligible veterans refresh their academic skills so that they can successfully complete the college program of their choosing. VUB staff and instructors assist veterans by developing, improving, and extending educational access and opportunities to eligible veterans through academic needs assessment, instruction, enrichment, and other academic support activities. Veterans Upward Bound projects are funded by the U. S. Department of Education and serve eligible veterans across the nation. Communication and cooperative effort with schools, communities, agencies and other organizations at the local, state, regional, and national level are among the other primary functions of NAVUBPP, which also seeks to improve services and educational opportunities for veterans by serving as a forum for exchange of knowledge and ideas. NAVUBPP provides for continuing professional development of VUB staff members, and serves as a network of communication for information related to quality delivery of veterans' services. NAVUBPP also encourages professional research and publication, as well as cooperative effort with other organizations committed to serving veterans and addressing veterans' issues. Forty-seven Veterans Upward Bound projects are currently funded across the U.S., including Puerto Rico. An annual conference with emphasis on professional development of individual members and VUB project staff is the Association's highlight activity each year. VUB Program Services The VUB Program services include: Basic skills development, which is designed to help veterans successfully complete a high school equivalency program and gain admission to college education programs Short-term remedial or refresher classes for high school graduates that have put off pursuing a college education

24 16 Veterans Education Guide Assistance with applications to the college or university of choice Assistance with applying for financial aid Personalized counseling Academic advice and assistance Career counseling Assistance in getting veterans services from other available resources Exposure to cultural events, academic programs, and other educational activities not usually available to disadvantaged people The VUB program can improve skills in: Mathematics Foreign Languages Composition Laboratory Science Reading Literature Computer Basics Tutorial and Study Skills Assistance Any other subjects you may need for success in education beyond high school VUB Eligibility To participate in VUB, you must meet all of the following criteria: Be a U.S. military veteran with 181 or more days of active duty service and discharged on/after January 31, 1955, under conditions other than dishonorable Meet the criteria for low income, according to guidelines published annually by the U.S. Department of Education, and/or be a first generation potential college graduate Demonstrate academic need for VUB Meet other local eligibility criteria as noted in the local VUB Program s Approved Grant Proposal, such as county of residence, etc.

25 Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB) 17 VUB Scholarship Information During the 2003 Annual Conference, NAVUBPP's membership voted to fund five academic scholarships. These scholarships were awarded to deserving Veterans Upward Bound students who were enrolled in an undergraduate postsecondary program in the following fall academic l semester/quarter. It is with great pleasure that the National Association of Veterans Upward Bound announces its National Scholarship Competition. Veterans Upward Bound participants are invited to compete for a scholarship award for the academic year. Nominating packets are available online. Deadline for submission is Thursday, July 4, Nominations may be made only by the staff of current NAVUB member programs. Nominee must be a current or former VUB student from the nominating project, who will be enrolled in post-secondary education for the following fall academic semester/quarter. Proof of required post-secondary attendance must be furnished by the Nominating project prior to payment of award. Payment of award will be made directly to the student. Nominator must write a Letter of Recommendation indicating familiarity with the applicant s financial need; involvement with VUB activities; academic background; civic, community and/or educational contributions; honors or awards; and other relevant information. Nominee will complete the application, provide a Letter of Recommendation from someone other than the Nominator and write an essay about How Veterans Upward Bound Has Made It Possible For Me To Pursue A College (or Vocational/Technical) Education. For more information go to the NAVUB website:

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27 Chapter 3 Job Corps Helping Veterans Start New Careers

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29 Job Corps 21 Chapter 3: Job Corps Helping Veterans Start New Careers Job Corps is a program for those separating Service members who need to develop additional job skills. At Job Corps, you can train for a new and rewarding career alongside other veterans. After training, staff will work with you to find a job for up to 21 months. Job Corps offers handson training to eligible veterans through the age of 24 in America s fastest-growing careers. Each year Job Corps provides training and support services to more than 100,000 young people in more than 100 career areas at 123 centers across the nation. Job Corps training for veterans is absolutely FREE. Throughout your training, you will receive a basic living allowance. As your training progresses, your living allowance will increase. Job Corps can also help you get started after you graduate with a transition allowance. This allowance is based on your academic and career skills achievement while in Job Corps. What Happens at Job Corps While most of your time on center will be devoted to career training, you may spend some time taking academic classes. When you arrive you will be required to take a test to assess your academic skill level. Although you already have your high school diploma or GED, you may need to take additional classes in subjects such as math and English to prepare you for your career area. You will have the chance to train with Job Corps employer partners on actual work sites. Job Corps has partners in every corner of the country who are looking for qualified people to train and hire. What Job Corps Offers to Veterans Veterans receive priority enrollment at all Job Corps centers. While you may attend any Job Corps center in the nation, there are three centers that offer dorm areas exclusively for veterans. You will be living among other veterans who are also transitioning from the military to civilian life. Those centers are: Atterbury Job Corps Center Edinburgh, Indiana

30 22 Veterans Education Guide Earle E. Clements Job Corps Center Morganfield, Kentucky Excelsior Springs Job Corps Center Excelsior Springs, Missouri What Job Corps will give you: Hands-on career technical training with real employers to make sure that the skills you learn are the ones you need. Education that applies to real-world business. You can earn a high school diploma or GED at the same time you are learning important career technical skills. Money for each month you're in the program. But just like a real job, taxes are deducted from your allowance. The path to a promising career. Job Corps works with you to develop a personalized career development plan including an area of training that will offer high-paying job opportunities. Services to help you be healthy and happy. Job Corps students have access to on-center health clinics, and some centers even provide special programs for students who are single parents. A safe environment that promotes your growth and development. See our Center Life page for more information. Help finding a job. Job Corps will help you develop interview skills, finalize your resume, and search for a job that matches your career technical skills training. Eligibility All you need to join Job Corps is: Be at least 16 years of age. Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. Meet low income requirements. Visit or call JOBS.

31 Chapter 4 Licensing, Certification and Vocational Services

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33 Additional Education and Training Options 25 Chapter 4: Licensing, Certification and Vocational Services Licensing and Certification There are several resources available to assist you in finding civilian requirements for licensing and certification: America s Career Info Net A Department of Labor (DOL) website. Go to the Career Tools section to look up licenses by state, requirements for licensing, and point-of-contact information for the state licensing board: The DANTES website has information on certification programs: Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) Find civilian credentials related to your military occupational specialty, learn what it takes to obtain the credentials, and see if there are available programs that will help pay credentialing fees: or CCAF Credentialing and Educational Research Tool (CERT) CERT is a valuable resource for Air Force personnel. The purpose of CERT is to increase awareness of professional development opportunities applicable to Air Force occupational specialties. CERT includes information related to specific Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs), such as: Civilian occupation equivalencies (DOL) CCAF degree programs National professional certifications Certification agencies Certification exams by DANTES Professional organizations For more information, visit:

34 26 Veterans Education Guide Professional Credentialing There are two primary types of credentialing: Licensure and Certification. Licensure is a credential normally issued by federal, state or local governmental agencies. A license is issued to individuals to practice in a specific occupation. Licenses are typically mandatory for employment in selected fields and federal or state laws or regulations define the standards that individuals must meet to become licensed. Certification is a credential normally issued by non-governmental agencies, associations, schools or industry-supported companies. A certification is issued to individuals who meet specific education, experience and qualification requirements. These requirements are generally established by professional associations, industry or productrelated organizations. Certification is typically an optional credential; although some state licensure boards and some employers may require a specific certification(s). Professional credentialing is important to the Air Force and our Airmen for several reasons: Helps develop a more diversely skilled workforce. Broadens professional development of our Airmen. Validates the Airman s professional knowledge and skills gained through Air Force technical education and training. Helps prepare our Airmen to meet mission challenges of the future. CCAF awards collegiate credit to Airmen who possess specific national professional credentials that satisfy applicable degree program requirements.

35 Additional Education and Training Options 27 Some civilian colleges and universities award credit for specific professional credentials. Saves Air Force tuition assistance funds toward degree program completion. Prepares Airmen for transition to civilian life. Airmen should consider pursing occupational-related credentials while serving in the Air Force to increase their Air Force occupational skills, broaden their professional development and be better prepared for transition. Students interested in pursuing professional credentials should contact the credentialing agency for information on credentials, eligibility requirements and testing procedures. Graduates of CCAF degree programs or courses accredited by credentialing agencies should contact the credentialing agency for requirements and processes. To support documentary evidence of training, skills and practical experience, students are highly encouraged to maintain records of all previous and current education, training and qualifications. Collegiate Credit for Professional Certification (CCAF) CCAF awards collegiate credit for approved national professional credentials. This credit may be applied towards applicable CCAF degree program requirements. A registered student desiring credit for degreeapplicable credentials must request the credential issuing agency provide a written memorandum of verification that includes full name, SSAN, date of birth, type of credential awarded and current standing, and award date.

36 28 Veterans Education Guide Request the credential issuing agency at: Community College of the Air Force Credentialing Programs CCAF/DEAL 100 South Turner Blvd Maxwell-Gunter AFB, AL Official agency memorandums are handled the same as official transcripts. Refer to the CCAF Catalog for approved national professional credentials applicable to CCAF degree programs. Vocational Services Installation Education Centers have information regarding vocational and technical school programs designed to give you the skills needed to work in occupations that do not require a four-year college degree. Education Center Counselors can also show you how to get course credits for non-traditional learning experience (such as military certifications and OJT). The counselors may also help you find out about certification and licensing requirements (i.e., how to get a journeyman card for a particular trade). Local trade unions may also offer vocational training in fields of interest. Transcripts of Military Education and Training Army The Army s Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (AARTS) automatically captures your military training, Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and college-level examinations scores with the college credit recommended. AARTS website: aarts.army.mil

37 Additional Education and Training Options 29 Navy and Marines The Navy and Marine Corps use the Sailor and Marine ACE Registry Transcript (SMART) system. This system automatically captures your training, experience and standardized test scores. SMART website: Air Force The Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) automatically captures your training, experience, and standardized test scores. Transcript information may be viewed on the website. CCAF website: Coast Guard The Coast Guard Institute (CGI) requires each Service member to submit documentation of all training (except correspondence course records), along with an enrollment form, to receive a transcript. CGI website: Veterans Under most circumstances, veterans are eligible to use their former service branch s transcript program. However if you are not eligible for AARTS, SMART, CCAF, or CGI systems, you will need to fill out DD Form 295, Application for the Evaluation of Learning Experiences during Military Service and provide your DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, to receive credit for your experience.

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39 Chapter 5 Additional Education and Training Options

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41 Additional Education and Training Options 33 Chapter 5: Additional Education and Training Options The transition from military to civilian life is an excellent time to take a serious look at your options for future success. Now is the best time to evaluate your educational options. Guidance Counseling After you return home, take some time to evaluate your education goals. Contact a military installation Education Center nearest to where you live (by phone or for those that do not live near a military installation), Navy College Office, or Marine Corps Lifelong Learning Center. The counselors can provide assistance in determining the goals that are right for you. If you feel you need additional education or training, an Education Counselor can help guide you to the appropriate curriculum and institution, and help you with the paperwork necessary to enroll in an academic or vocational program. You can also contact the VA Regional Office for education assistance. With today's technology, you do not have to live near a military installation to get help. Assistance is just a phone call or away. Career Assessment If you are not sure what you want to do upon leaving the military, then you should talk to a counselor at your VA Regional Office, closest Education Center, Navy College Office, Marine Corps Lifelong Learning Center or Transition Office. Counselors at these various locations can recommend aptitude tests or vocational interest inventories to help clarify your career goals. These tests can help you pinpoint job skills in which you might excel and then relate them to specific occupations and careers in the civilian world. You can also contact the closest Department of Labor Career One Stop Center for assistance in getting a

42 34 Veterans Education Guide skill assessment. It's also a valuable tool that can help you develop your education or training career goals. Some of the assessment instruments available through an installation s Education Center, Navy College Office, or Marine Corps Lifelong Learning Center are the Strong Interest Inventory, Self-Directed Search, or Career Assessment Inventory, as well as computerized counseling systems like Discover. These can help you select jobs and careers that more closely match your personality, background, and career goals. Again, don't forget to check with the Career One Stop Center to find out about the various skills assessment instruments they have available. Visit Career One Stop at to learn more. Academic Planning Once you have identified your career goal, you may find you need a formal education to achieve it. An Education Counselor can explore the possibilities with you. Counselors can also advise you on non-traditional educational opportunities that can make it easier for you to get a diploma, vocational certificate or college degree. These non-traditional opportunities include the following: Take challenge exams, such as a college-level equivalency exam: You can convert knowledge learned outside the classroom into credits toward a college program. This can save you time and money. Go to school part time while continuing to hold down a full-time job: This approach might make adult education more practical. See the veterans coordinator at the college, university or vocational school of your choice: The coordinator can help you understand your VA educational benefits and might lead you to special programs offered to former service members. Determine if your military learning experiences can translate to course credit: Check with your Unit Education Officer or an active duty military

43 Additional Education and Training Options 35 installation Education Center, Navy College Office or Marine Corps Lifelong Learning Center for assistance. You can do this after your release from active duty. You can also go online and get a copy of your DD Form 2586, Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document at Take advantage of distance learning opportunities: With today s technological advances, you can enroll in an educational program in which courses are offered by accredited educational institutions in a variety of formats, i.e., CD-ROM, the Internet, satellite TV, cable TV, and video tapes. Vocational Services You can also learn about various vocational services available through a military Education Center, Navy College Office or Marine Corps Lifelong Learning Center, as well through the VA Regional Office. Counselors are available to help you understand the many vocational and technical school programs. The counselors at these centers can also show you how to get course credits for non-traditional learning experience (such as military certifications and on-the-job training). The counselors may also help you find out about certification and licensing requirements for example, how to get a journeyman card for a particular trade. The counselors can give you information on vocational and apprenticeship programs. Note: Local trade unions may also offer vocational training in fields that interest you. Licensing and Certification Your military occupational specialty may require a license or certification in the civilian workforce. There are several resources available to assist you in finding civilian requirements for licensing and certification:

44 36 Veterans Education Guide Department of Labor website. Go to Career Tools section to look up licenses by state, requirements for the license, and point-of-contact information for the state licensing board. DANTES website has information on certification programs. Find civilian credentials related to your military occupational specialty, learn what it takes to obtain the credentials, and see if there are available programs that will help pay credentialing fees. Find civilian credentials related to your Navy rating, learn what it takes to obtain the credentials, and see if there are available programs that will help pay credentialing fees. htttp:// is a valuable resource for Air Force personnel in increasing awareness of professional development opportunities applicable to USAF occupational specialties, crosswalks to CCAF degree programs, national professional certifications, certification agencies, and more.

45 Chapter 6 Military Friendly Schools and Employers

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47 Military Friendly Schools and Employers 39 Chapter 6: Military Friendly Schools and Employers Military Friendly Schools are the top 15% of schools nationwide that deliver the best experience for military students. Select a Degree Type to find the perfect Military Friendly School for you. The following web sites provide more information about military friendly schools: Top 10 Online Military Friendly Colleges Programs offered online by many colleges and universities provide a solid educational foundation for people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Last year, the U.S. had over 1.4 million active military members who offered their skills to support defense. As many of these personnel expand their education, retire, or leave active duty, online studies are often the best path to completing a degree. Online programs offer veterans a number of tuition discounts, credit for previous military training, scholarships, flexibility in scheduling, and other educational benefits. Due to the number of educational options available to military personnel and veterans, we ve created a list to assist in the selection process. 1. Columbia College Columbia College has offered military members, their family, and veterans access to high quality education for almost 40 years. Columbia offers online and evening classes to service members and veterans through 23 online degree programs approved by the Veteran s

48 40 Veterans Education Guide Administration. The College also provides transfer credit for military training, start and stop flexibility to accommodate deployment, and a number of scholarships and tuition discounts to active service members and their spouses. Columbia also has over 18 campuses located on military bases and is dedicated to providing quality education through to the Service members Opportunity Colleges network. The University also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Project and GI Bill tuition program. 2. Strayer University Strayer University s commitment to meeting the educational needs of military service members through internationally recognized, accredited, online undergraduate and graduate programs. Strayer provides maximum flexibility to military service members as they pursue their degree within high demand online programs like health administration, business, criminal justice, accounting, and other technical fields. The University also offers a number of scholarships, tuition assistance programs, and veteran s benefits to active duty military personnel, their spouses, and their dependents. Strayer participates in the Yellow Ribbon project, the GI Bill, and even supplements military tuition assistance programs with 100% tuition coverage for all undergraduate tuition and most graduate tuition. As a Service Members Opportunity College program affiliate, Strayer is one of the best options for military members as they expand their educational foundation. 3. Northcentral University Northcentral University s online classes provide efficient, practical, and flexible instruction to active and retired military personnel and their dependents. The University offers online certificates, bachelor s, master s, and doctoral degrees through its well-known School of Business and Technology Management, School of Education, and School of Behavioral Health Sciences. Additionally, the University was recognized by G.I. Jobs magazine as a Military Friendly School for 2010 for its unique ability to meet the educational needs of active duty military members, retirees, reservists, and their dependents via online learning platforms. Northcentral participates in the GI Bill, Reserve

49 Military Friendly Schools and Employers 41 Educational Assistance Program, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment for disabled veterans, and Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance for children and spouses of deceased service members. 4. Cappella University Cappella University assists service members, their families, and military veterans means of advancing their educational aspirations with a number of quality, affordable online programs. The University s awareness of the unique complexities active and former duty military members manage caused the University to offer specifically tailored many of its online programs based upon its dedication to support, affordability, and flexibility. Cappella offers studies within numerous degree programs ranging from certificate programs to doctoral programs in many fields. The University also provides tuition discounts, transfer credit/s for military experience and previous training, and participates in the Yellow Ribbon project. The University was recognized from 2007 until 2010 by Military Advanced Education Magazine as one of the Military Advanced Education Top Military Friendly Colleges and Universities and continues to provide some of the best means of cultivating and propelling skills for military personnel and their dependents. 5. Excelsior College Excelsior College provides online courses based in the liberal arts, business, technology, health sciences, nursing, and information literacy to undergraduate and graduate students from nearly any location. The College offers classes through online formats and CD ROM formats to ensure course materials are delivered even without an internet connection. Excelsior has a tradition of providing military members, veterans, and their families high quality educational experiences with maximum Military Tuition Assistance programs, Veterans Affairs Benefits, Military Vocational Rehabilitation, maximum credit for previous credits and military training, and a flexible service member

50 42 Veterans Education Guide friendly deployment policy. The College received a Top 20 Military Friendly College designation by the Military Advanced Education magazine and was recognized as a Military Friendly College by the G.I. Jobs Magazine for its capabilities in extending affordable online education to active duty, reservist, and retired service members. 6. Drexel University Drexel University has a long standing tradition of providing veterans, active duty military members, and their families affordable and flexible online education to meet the busiest schedules. The University has provided world renowned Internet based online education for working professionals since As an innovator of distance learning programs, Drexel s highly ranking degree programs are recognized by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the Top 100 of America s Best Colleges. Online courses offered through the University maintain virtually the same accredited, quality instruction as its on campus tradition of educational excellence. Additionally, Drexel has consistently provided recognition to past and present military personnel with a number of financial options including military tuition reduction plans, participation in the GI Bill Yellow Ribbon program, undergraduate transfer credit for military experiences and previous learning, and offers programs based in the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES). 7. Walden University Walden University s longstanding tradition of offering accredited online instruction to military service members is proven by its enrollment of over 1,700 veterans and active duty military personnel. Listed among G.I. Jobs 2011 list of Military Friendly Schools, Walden provides affordable access to higher education through distance learning programs certified by the Department of Veteran s Affairs. The University offers degrees of all levels in education, health, management, psychology, public policy and administration, counseling and social services, and nursing programs. As a member of the Service members Opportunity Colleges Consortium, Walden offers many financing options for military members and veterans includes: tuition reimbursement through

51 Military Friendly Schools and Employers 43 educational assistance allowances, participation in the Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bills, tuition assistance, the Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program, disabled Veteran s benefits, and the VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program. 8. Kaplan University Kaplan University is a reputable institution of higher education offering many high quality online degree programs to undergraduate and graduate students. Veterans, active duty military service members, and their spouses gain specially tailored educational and financing options. As a member of the Service Members Opportunity Colleges, Kaplan participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a change of orders withdrawal policy for deployed service members, reduced tuition and fee waivers, and a credit transfer program offered through the DANTES program. Kaplan has been listed as a Top Military Friendly College & University by Military Advanced Education magazine and G.I. Jobs 2011 Guide to Military Friendly Schools. 9. Colorado Technical University Colorado Technical University is committed to meeting the complex learning needs of active duty service members, veterans, and their dependents through high quality and flexible online programs. CTU s Colleges of Business and Management, Engineering and Computer Science, Health Sciences, Information Systems and Technology, and Security Studies offer associate through doctoral degrees. CTU has a team of Military Education Benefits Specialists and Prior Learning Assessment Advisers who maximize the benefits available to military members. The University is well known for its familiarity with military protocols and procedures and is affiliated with the Service Members Opportunity College and DANTES programs. It also waives the cost of application fees and books. CTU offers limited areas of academic study yet provides an exceptional amount of support to military members.