Best Online Military Studies Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Many people interested in military studies find it hard to attend on-campus programs. They often ask if an online military studies degree offers a practical and effective way to achieve their educational goals. To date, over 1.2 million individuals actively served, forming part of a larger community of more than 2 million people dedicated to the Armed Forces. It's worth noting that beyond military roles, such degrees open doors to diverse career paths, equipping graduates with valuable skills useful in many civilian fields.

By continuing to read, you will discover valuable information about top online military studies programs to help you decide your academic future wisely. For over ten years, the Research.com team has helped many individuals plan their careers. This article shares that expertise by using only reliable sources. 

What are the benefits of getting an online military studies degree program? 

• Getting an online military studies degree program qualifies you for diverse careers, such as military officer, intelligence analyst, defense contractor, emergency management director, and roles in government, law enforcement, and education.
• Median annual salaries for related positions range from $57,100 for archivists, curators, and museum workers to $140,030 for human resource managers, with emergency management directors earning around $86,130.
• Online programs offer flexibility for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and working professionals. They allow you to balance service or work commitments while advancing your education and career prospects. 

What can I expect from an online military studies degree program? 

Pursuing an online military studies degree offers a flexible and comprehensive path for those interested in military careers or related fields. These programs are designed for both active-duty service members and civilians, providing the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in defense, intelligence, or government roles. With online delivery, students can balance their studies with work or military commitments while gaining a strong foundation in military theory, leadership, and strategy.

An online military studies degree program covers a core curriculum that blends military history, leadership, intelligence analysis, and social sciences. Students typically complete a capstone project or thesis, demonstrating their research and analytical skills on a military-related topic. Many programs also require internship hours or practical experiences to build real-world expertise. Tuition varies widely, often ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the institution. Online classes are delivered through interactive platforms. Such a format offers recorded lectures, discussion forums, and flexible schedules to accommodate working professionals and active-duty service members.

Where can I work with an online military degree program? 

An online military studies degree offers strong job prospects across multiple fields. For example, emergency management directors have a projected job growth rate of 4%, while human resource managers are expected to see 6% growth, and archivists, curators, and museum workers have a projected growth rate of 11%. Cybersecurity and IT roles, which are popular among military graduates, are expected to grow by 33% over the next decade. Veterans with a college degree have a low unemployment rate of 1.6%. Approximately 42.4% of male Gulf War-era II veterans and 52.0% of female Gulf War-era II veterans worked in management, professional, and related occupations in 2023. These statistics highlight the degree’s versatility and positive job outlook. 

How much can I make with an online military degree program? 

Graduates with an online military studies degree can expect average salaries ranging from $52,548 to $83,960, depending on their role and industry. Entry-level positions, such as naval officer or marine science technician, offer salaries around $49,945 to $60,975, while experienced professionals in specialized fields, like nuclear medical science officers, can earn up to $157,975 annually. Salary potential increases with experience, advanced degrees, or certifications. Fields like management, research, and intelligence often pay higher, and location can also impact earnings. 

Table of Contents 

1. List of the Best Online Military Studies Degree Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete an online military studies degree program?
3. How does an online military studies degree program compare to an on-campus program? 
4. What is the average cost of an online military studies degree program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online military studies degree program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online military studies degree program?
7. What courses are typically in an online military studies degree program?
8. What types of specializations are available in an online military studies degree program?
9. Is an Online Military Studies Degree Program Accredited and Recognized?
10. What Challenges Might Students Encounter in an Online Military Studies Degree Program?
11. Can an online military studies degree pave the way for military psychology careers?
12. How to Choose the Best Online Military Studies Degree Program
13. What career paths are available for graduates of an online military studies degree program?
14. What is the job market for graduates with an online military studies degree?
15. Other Things You Should Know About Online Military Studies Degree Programs

List of the Best Online Military Studies Degree Programs for 2025

How do we rank schools? 

Paying for a degree is a major investment, so our ranking methodology is built to help students make informed choices with clear, detailed information. It relies on trusted sources like the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and The National Center for Education Statistics. These databases offer strong, reliable data for evaluating and ranking Online Dual Master's Degree programs. For more information, please visit Research.com's methodology page.

1. Liberty University 

Since 1971, Liberty University has offered a 100% online Master of Arts in Military Operations – Military Leadership for those aiming to elevate their military careers or transition their expertise within the defense sector. This flexible program, with its specialized curriculum and military-focused faculty, builds upon existing knowledge to cultivate well-rounded leaders ready for advanced roles.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 36 
• Cost: $275 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

2. University of New Haven 

Established in 2001, the University of New Haven's Master of Science in National Security provides a robust understanding of homeland and international security, taught by faculty with significant real-world experience in the intelligence and security fields. The program, available on campus and online, emphasizes practical learning through internships, research, or thesis options, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the security community.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 30  
• Cost: $1,092 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: NECHE - New England Commission of Higher Education 

3. Walden University

Walden University's online MS in Human Services with a specialization in Military Families and Culture delves into the unique challenges faced by service members and their families, including PTSD, deployments, and relocation impacts. The curriculum equips students with skills to support this community in various roles within veteran and human services organizations.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 53 quarter credits
• Cost: $555 per quarter hour 
• Accreditation: HLC - Higher Learning Commission 

4. Saint Louis University 

Saint Louis University's online Master of Science in Strategic Intelligence equips students with strategic thinking and data analysis skills for careers in intelligence. The program within the School for Professional Studies emphasizes the intersection of intelligence and policy, offering a flexible curriculum taught by experienced faculty.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 33 
• Cost: $810 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: HLC - Higher Learning Commission

5. American Public University 

American Public University's online Master of Arts in National Security Studies provides an executive-level understanding of today's complex security challenges, including intelligence, cybersecurity, and terrorism. The program, taught by experienced national security professionals, equips students to analyze global threats and formulate effective security policies.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost: $455 per credit hour (with discounts available for military, veterans, and through the APUS Opportunity Grant)
• Accreditation:  HLC - Higher Learning Commission

6. Norwich University

Norwich University, the nation's first private military college, offers a fully online Master of Arts in Military History. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of global military history within its chronological, geographical, political, and economic contexts. Expert faculty focus on enhancing students' historical insight, research, writing, and analytical abilities.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost: $550 - $698 per credit hour (additional fees and military discounts may apply)
• Accreditation:  NECHE - New England Commission of Higher Education

7. Regent University

Regent University's Master of Arts in National Security Studies, offered online and on campus, aims to develop professionals capable of addressing complex security challenges. With a Christian perspective and recognized for military friendliness, the program offers specialized concentrations to prepare graduates for impactful roles in various sectors.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 36-38
• Cost: $695 per credit hour 
• Accreditation:  SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

8. Citadel Military College of South Carolina 

The Citadel, recognized as a top regional and public university in the South and a leading institution for veterans, offers a fully online Master of Arts in Military History. This 30-hour program allows students to collaborate with expert historians to explore the theory, practice, institutions, and societal impact of warfare, with an option to earn a Graduate Certificate in Military Leadership concurrently.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Cost: $700 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 

9. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's online M.S. in Human Security and Resilience addresses global challenges by focusing on population protection and sustainable solutions. This interdisciplinary program, designed for graduates and professionals, emphasizes resilience in the face of diverse threats, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals and current security practices.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 30
• Cost: $1,840 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

10. University of Texas El Paso

The University of Texas at El Paso offers a rigorous interdisciplinary Master of Science in Intelligence and National Security Studies, preparing students for careers in the US Intelligence Community, private sector, or research institutions. The program also serves as strong preparation for doctoral studies in related fields.

• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost: $490 per credit hour 
• Accreditation: SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges 

How long does it take to complete an online military studies degree program?

The time it takes to complete an online military studies degree program varies based on prior credits, course load, and personal circumstances. Below are the typical completion times for online military studies degrees:

Bachelor’s Degree

• An online bachelor’s degree in military studies typically requires around 120 credit hours and takes about four (4) years to complete if attending full-time.
• Some programs offer accelerated eight-week courses and multiple start dates per year, which can provide flexibility but generally do not shorten the standard four-year timeline unless you take heavier course loads or have transfer credits.
• If you have prior college credits, military experience, or an associate degree, you may be able to finish faster by transferring credits.
• For active-duty service members or those studying part-time, completion may take longer-often six (6) to eight (8) years-depending on course load and military commitments.

Master’s Degree

An online master’s in military studies varies by program but generally takes 1.5 to 2 years to complete full-time. Many programs also offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate working professionals and active-duty military personnel.

How does an online military studies degree program compare to an on-campus program?

Choosing between an online and an on-campus military studies degree program depends on your personal needs, lifestyle, and career goals. Both formats offer valuable education in military theory, leadership, and strategy, but they differ in delivery, flexibility, and learning experience. Below is a comparison to help you decide which option may be best for you, which is also applicable to the best online space studies degree programs for students interested in combining military strategy with space operations knowledge.

Online vs. On-Campus Military Studies Degree Programs

Flexibility and Convenience

• Online military studies programs offer greater flexibility, allowing students-especially active-duty service members and veterans study on their schedule and from any location with internet access.
• On-campus programs require attendance at set times and locations, which can be challenging for those with unpredictable schedules or deployment obligations.

Cost

• Online programs are generally more cost-effective, with savings on tuition, housing, and commuting expenses. Commuting to campus for in-person classes costs students at least $1,290 annually in transportation expenses, a cost that online students avoid.
• On-campus programs may incur additional costs for room, board, and transportation.

Learning Environment and Interaction

• Online programs may lack in-person interaction, potentially making it harder to build camaraderie and receive immediate feedback, though some platforms offer creative ways to foster online connections.
• On-campus programs provide a focused, distraction-free environment and more opportunities for face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers, which can enhance engagement and networking.

Program Structure

• Online courses often feature asynchronous learning, allowing students to log in and complete coursework at any time, and may offer accelerated terms or multiple start dates throughout the year.
• On-campus programs typically follow a traditional academic calendar with fixed semesters and less flexibility.

Quality and Outcomes

Studies show online and on-campus degrees are generally comparable in terms of educational quality and career outcomes, provided the online program is properly accredited.

Networking and Career Development

Online programs can connect students with a diverse, global network, while on-campus programs may offer stronger local networking and hands-on experiences.

Pursuing a dual masters program online offers the flexibility to combine military studies with complementary fields like international relations or public administration. This format can be ideal for professionals seeking interdisciplinary expertise without compromising current job responsibilities or deployment schedules.

Meanwhile, the chart below shows the 2025 Student Enrollment Forecast by Learning Mode: 

What is the average cost of an online military studies degree program?

The average cost of an online military studies degree program varies by degree level and institution, but generally falls within the following ranges:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Annual tuition for online bachelor’s programs at military-friendly schools typically ranges from about $6,000 to $12,000 per year, with total program costs for a four-year degree usually between $24,000 and $48,000.
• Master’s Degree: Online master’s programs in military studies generally cost between $6,700 and $17,000 in total tuition. Some programs may be higher, but most fall within this range.
• Per-Credit Cost: For undergraduate and graduate courses, military tuition rates are commonly $250 per credit hour for undergraduates and $250–$336 per credit hour for graduate courses. 

For those seeking accelerated options, it's worth noting that while the figures above represent typical costs, individuals looking for cheap one year master's programs online in related fields might find more budget-friendly alternatives, though these may not be specifically focused on military studies.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online military studies degree program?

Students enrolling in an online military studies degree program have access to a wide range of financial aid options:

• GI Bill: Eligible service members, veterans, and their dependents can use the GI Bill to cover up to 100% of tuition and fees at public universities and up to $28,937.09 per year at private institutions. The GI Bill may also help with housing, books, supplies, and relocation expenses.
• Yellow Ribbon Program: This program provides additional funding for expenses not covered by the GI Bill at participating schools, particularly useful for private or out-of-state institutions. The amount varies by school and is available to those who meet GI Bill eligibility requirements.
• Military Tuition Assistance (TA): Each military branch offers tuition assistance programs that may cover up to 100% of tuition expenses, typically up to $250 per credit hour, for active-duty and reserve members.
• Scholarships and Grants: Military students can apply for a variety of scholarships and grants, including those specifically for veterans, active-duty personnel, spouses, and dependents. Federal Pell Grants and state-sponsored grants are also available, along with school-specific scholarships.
• Reduced Tuition and Fee Waivers: Many military-friendly online colleges offer reduced tuition rates, waived fees, and additional discounts for military students and their families.
• Support for Military Families: Spouses and dependents may be eligible for scholarships, tuition discounts, and the transfer of GI Bill benefits, as well as state and private aid programs.
• Federal Financial Aid: By submitting the FAFSA, students may qualify for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.

While exploring funding for military studies, students can benefit from comparing financial aid models used in other programs like ASHA online SLP programs, which often offer federal aid, scholarships, and military tuition assistance to help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online military studies degree program?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online military studies degree program depend on the degree level and the institution, but generally include the following. Many schools that also rank among the best online urban planning degree programs have similar admissions standards for their related offerings:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most undergraduate programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) program.
• Transcripts: Submission of official high school transcripts or GED test scores is typically required. Transfer students must also provide transcripts from any colleges previously attended.
• Minimum GPA: Some programs require a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA), often around 2.0 or higher, for admission in good standing.
• Application and Fee: Applicants must complete an online application and may need to pay a non-refundable application fee, though this is often waived for military-affiliated students.
• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or equivalent English proficiency test scores.
• Alternative Admission Pathways: Some universities offer alternative admission routes, such as self-certification forms or earned admission through successful completion of online courses if standard requirements are not met.
• Age Requirement: Some institutions require students to be a certain age (e.g., 18 or 20), unless they are active-duty service members.

Some prospective students may wonder, is an online psychology degree any good? The same skepticism sometimes surrounds military studies online, but both disciplines now offer accredited, rigorous online programs that match or exceed on-campus standards.

What courses are typically in an online military studies degree program?

Online military studies degree programs offer a diverse curriculum. Much like researching a technology management degree salary to understand the return on investment for a program, exploring the course lineup can help you gauge the skills and knowledge you’ll gain. While specific courses vary by institution and degree level, the following are commonly included:

• Modern Military Geography: Study of how geography impacts military strategy and operations.
• Military Leaders and Leadership: Examination of leadership principles through historical and contemporary military figures.
• Methods of Military Analysis: This course introduces foundational skills and analytical approaches for executing effective military operations and defending national interests. It covers topics such as operational research, campaign analysis, and decision-making tools used in defense contexts.

• Dilemmas in Socialism and Marxism: This course explores the theoretical and practical challenges faced by socialist and Marxist movements. It analyzes their historical development, ideological debates, and the complexities encountered in real-world applications.

What types of specializations are available in an online military studies degree program?

Online military studies degree programs offer a variety of specializations that allow students to tailor their education to specific interests and career goals. Common specializations include:

• Military History: Focuses on the history of armed conflict, major wars, and the impact of military action on societies and international relations.
• Military Science: Emphasizes military processes, leadership, tactics, and the application of organized strategies in warfare and military operations.
• Intelligence: Covers intelligence gathering, analysis, and operations relevant to both military and civilian security roles.
• Homeland Security: Prepares students for roles in national security, emergency management, and counterterrorism.
• Cybersecurity: Focuses on protecting military and government information systems from digital threats. The intersection of cybersecurity vs data science is also increasingly relevant, as cybersecurity professionals utilize data analysis techniques to identify and mitigate threats, while data scientists require robust security measures to protect sensitive datasets.
• Leadership and Management: Develops advanced leadership, decision-making, and organizational management skills for military and civilian careers.
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Teaches the principles of military logistics, transportation, and the management of resources and supply chains.
• International Management: Explores global military operations, coalition warfare, and cross-cultural leadership in international settings.

• Criminology and Forensic Psychology: Examines the intersection of military operations with criminal justice, law enforcement, and psychological analysis, potentially leading to careers in criminology focused on military-related offenses, investigations, or policy development.
• Strategic Leadership and Global Security: At the graduate level, some programs offer advanced study in strategic leadership, global security, and warfare strategies and operations.

Is an Online Military Studies Degree Program Accredited and Recognized?

Accreditation is a critical indicator of academic quality and institutional credibility. Prospective students should ensure that an online military studies degree program is accredited by recognized agencies to guarantee rigorous curriculum standards, eligibility for federal financial aid, and employer confidence in the credential. Verification of accreditation status involves reviewing independent assessments, state authorization, and any available program-specific ratings. In addition to program reputation, potential applicants might explore interdisciplinary alternatives, such as online MSW programs affordable, for a broader academic perspective that complements military studies without compromising on quality.

What Challenges Might Students Encounter in an Online Military Studies Degree Program?

Online military studies programs demand a high degree of self-discipline and time management, as students must navigate rigorous coursework and maintain engagement in a virtual environment. Common challenges include adapting to asynchronous learning formats, limited immediate access to in-person mentorship, and overcoming technological constraints that can affect collaboration and timely feedback. Students are encouraged to actively seek out support services, engage in structured study routines, and participate in online communities to mitigate isolation and optimize learning outcomes. For a comparative perspective on how structured support can enhance online learning, explore our article on online clinical MSW programs.

Can an online military studies degree pave the way for military psychology careers?

An interdisciplinary approach that blends military studies with advanced psychological expertise can broaden career prospects in areas such as behavioral health management, crisis intervention, and leadership counseling within the defense community. Students may consider supplementing their degree with additional training in psychology to better address the unique mental health challenges faced by service members and veterans. For those interested in clinical expertise, exploring accredited PsyD online programs can provide the necessary credentials to bridge military operations with mental health support, thereby enhancing overall strategic and operational effectiveness.

How to Choose the Best Online Military Studies Degree Program

Choosing the right online military studies degree program involves careful consideration of several key factors to ensure the program aligns with your academic, professional, and personal needs. Much like researching a nursing leadership salary to understand potential career outcomes, evaluating these factors can help you make an informed decision.

• Accreditation: Ensure the program is offered by a regionally or nationally accredited institution. Accreditation is essential for degree recognition by employers and the military, and is required for officer commissioning in all branches.
• Military Friendliness: Look for schools with strong support for military students, such as tuition discounts, flexible scheduling, credit for military experience, and dedicated military support services. 
• Program Reputation and Rankings: Research the program’s reputation, graduation rates, and rankings, especially those tailored for veterans and military students. 

• Curriculum and Specializations: Review the curriculum to ensure it covers your areas of interest. Some programs offer flexible or customizable coursework, while others follow a more structured path.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online military studies degree program?

Graduates of an online military studies degree program can pursue a variety of career paths in both military and civilian sectors, with salaries varying widely by role and industry. Here are some common options, including typical median annual salaries where available:

• Military Service and Officer Roles: Positions as commissioned officers or specialized roles in the armed forces, with median annual wages for military occupations around $76,000.
• Military Police: Enforce law on military bases, with a national average salary of about $40,337 per year.
• Intelligence Analyst: Analyze data for military or government agencies, earning a national average salary of $42,995 per year.
• Instructor: Teach military science or related subjects, with an average salary of $53,172 per year.
• Emergency Management Director: Oversee disaster response and crisis planning, with median annual salaries around $86,130, though averages can be higher depending on location and experience.
• Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers: Manage military history collections and exhibits, with median annual salaries around $57,100.
• Human Resource Managers: Lead personnel and organizational management, with median annual salaries reaching $140,030. Obtaining a degree in human resources is a common pathway to these leadership roles, equipping individuals with the necessary skills in talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development.
• Business Operations and Logistics: Manage acquisitions, contracts, and supply chains, with salaries often ranging from $60,000 to $105,000 depending on the specific role and experience.
• Researcher: Conduct research for the military or defense sector, with an average salary of $81,237 per year.
• Naval Officer: Lead and manage naval operations, earning an average salary of $49,945 per year. 

If you want to provide mental health support and counseling to military personnel and their families, check out military psychologist career opportunities. Meanwhile, the chart below shows the employment distribution of workers with a military degree, by occupational group.

Graduates can pursue a wide variety of military science careers, from strategic analysis roles in defense agencies to civilian positions in homeland security, emergency planning, and intelligence — leveraging both theoretical and practical knowledge from their online degree.

What is the job market for graduates with an online military studies degree?

The job outlook for military studies graduates is generally stable, though some roles—especially within the military—may fluctuate based on defense budgets and operational needs. Given the significant size of the Armed Forces, which in February 2024 comprised over 2 million serving members, including over 1.2 million on active duty, opportunities within this sector remain a key consideration for graduates. To better understand the structure of this active-duty force, the chart below presents the subtotals for each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

While the current force is robust, it is smaller than historical peaks, largely due to ongoing recruitment challenges and evolving defense priorities. This dynamic environment underscores the continued demand for skilled professionals in military and related civilian roles, making a military studies degree relevant for a wide array of career paths both within and outside the armed services. A significant reason for this broad applicability is the fact that these programs cultivate highly valued interdisciplinary skills. These skills, which include leadership, critical thinking, and strategic analysis, are highly valued across sectors, helping graduates remain competitive in a variety of fields.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Military Studies Degree Programs

Balancing my military commitments with further education once seemed impossible, but the flexibility of the online program allowed me to earn my degree without disrupting my service. The knowledge gained has already proven valuable in my current role, providing a broader strategic perspective I wouldn't have otherwise acquired. - Vico 

Choosing an online format for my military studies degree meant I could continue my professional development while also managing family responsibilities. The engaging course materials and the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of fellow students enriched my learning experience and ultimately led to the completion of my degree. - Don

Completing my online military studies degree has opened up new career possibilities within the defense sector that I hadn't previously considered. The program's focus on critical thinking and analytical skills has boosted my confidence and prepared me for advancement in ways I truly appreciate. - Ethan

Key Findings 

• As of February 2024, over 1.2 million individuals were actively serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Median annual salaries for positions related to military studies range from $57,100 to $140,030.
• Veterans with a college degree had a low unemployment rate of 1.6% in 2024.
• Approximately 42.4% of male and 52.0% of female Gulf War-era II veterans worked in management, professional, and related occupations in 2023.
• Graduates with an online military studies degree can expect average salaries ranging from $52,548 to $83,960.

Other Things You Should Know About Online Military Studies Degree Programs

What degree is best for the military? 

The best degree for the military depends on your career goals, but top choices include strategic intelligence, criminal justice, engineering (mechanical, industrial, or biomedical), management information systems, nursing, and business administration. These fields align well with military leadership, technical, and specialized roles, and also offer strong post-military career prospects. Ultimately, a four-year degree in any of these areas will help you qualify for officer positions and provide valuable skills for both military and civilian careers. 

What do you mean by military studies?

Military studies, also known as military science, is an interdisciplinary field focused on the study of military processes, institutions, warfare, defense strategies, and leadership. It combines coursework from areas like history, political science, communications, management, and technology to analyze military operations, logistics, tactics, and the relationship between the military and society. Students learn about war tactics, military history, leadership, diplomacy, and modern security challenges to prepare for roles in the armed forces, government, or related fields. 

What is the basic military qualification course?

The basic military qualification course in the U.S. is commonly known as Basic Training or "boot camp." It is required for all new enlisted personnel across every branch of the military. This intensive program introduces recruits to the physical, mental, and emotional demands of military service, covering physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, and basic military skills. Each service branch has its own version of Basic Training, lasting from about 7.5 to 13 weeks, and includes rigorous physical fitness requirements and instruction tailored to that branch’s needs. 

What is BS in the military? 

Typically, "BS" stands for Bachelor of Science, a four-year undergraduate degree emphasizing subjects like science, technology, engineering, or math. While not universally mandated for military service, a BS degree is frequently a prerequisite for officer commissioning programs and is particularly advantageous for technical military specialties.

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, December). Employment Situation of Veterans - 2024 (USDL-24-2273). U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/vet.pdf 
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Emergency Management Directors. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/emergency-management-directors.htm
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Information Security Analysts. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm#tab-6
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Military Careers. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/military/military-careers.htm#tab-3
• Indeed Editorial Team. (2025, March 26). 10 Careers You Can Have With a Military Science Degree. Indeed. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/what-can-do-with-military-science-degree
• Lofton, N. (2024, August 31). Cost of Online Education vs. Traditional Education. EducationData.org. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://educationdata.org/cost-of-online-education-vs-traditional-education
• Payscale. (n.d.). Bachelor of Science (BS / BSc), Military Science Degree. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Bachelor_of_Science_(BS_%2F_BSc)%2C_Military_Science/Salary
• Quality Matters. (n.d.). The Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) Project. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.qualitymatters.org/qa-resources/resource-center/articles-resources/CHLOE-project
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2024, November 15). Yellow Ribbon Program. Retrieved May 14, 2025, fromhttps://www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/post-9-11/yellow-ribbon-program
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2025). Part V: Chapter 10 - Tuition Assistance Top-up. Retrieved May 14, 2025, from https://www.benefits.va.gov/warms/docs/admin22/m22_4/part05/ch10.htm
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2025). Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) rates. Retrieved May 14, 2025, fromhttps://www.va.gov/education/benefit-rates/post-9-11-gi-bill-rates
• University of Illinois, Chicago. (n.d.). Are online degrees respected by employers? Retrieved May 14, 2025, fromhttps://onlineprograms.uic.edu/news-stories/are-online-degrees-respected-by-employers