Associate and Bachelor's Degrees in Military Science at a Glance
Military-associated programs at the bachelor's level are designed to prepare students for commissioning as officers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), officers typically need at least a bachelor's degree. Such programs are generally offered with a major or minor in military science and are available at some schools with Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) or equivalent programs. However, not all ROTC programs sponsor a military science major or even minor.
Military-related associate degree programs are designed for prospective soldiers and enlisted-rank veterans. These programs offer a variety of courses that are designed to develop core academic skills, as well as courses in military thought and life. These programs may be used in preparation for transferring to a 4-year program with the goal earning a commission as an officer, but veterans may use these programs in preparation for other career goals as well.
Associate | Bachelor's | |
---|---|---|
Who is this degree for? | - Individuals who are planning to build a foundation of military knowledge and carry on to the bachelor's degree level | - Veteran enlisted soldiers and other students who are planning to become officers in the military - Students who are members of the ROTC who choose to focus their academic interest on military leadership |
Common Career Paths (with approximate monthly salary based on less than two years of experience, plus housing expenses) | - Private, E-1 rank ($1,468 per month) - Sergeant first class, E-7 rank ($2,637 per month) | - Second Lieutenant, O-1 rank ($2,784 per month) - Lieutenant Colonel, O-5 rank ($4,983 per month) |
Time to Completion | 1.5-2 years full-time | 4 years full-time |
Common Graduation Requirements | Approximately 20 courses | - Approximately 35-40 courses - ROTC participation - Contract for commissioning upon graduation |
Prerequisites | - High school diploma | - High school diploma - American citizen or permanent resident in process of applying for citizenship (commission will be denied if citizenship application fails for any reason) |
Online Availability | Some courses | No |
Source: *U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Manpower Data Center (January 2011).