Back to School: A Quick Primer for Veterans

If you’re thinking about going back to school once you’re no longer on active duty, great. Earning a degree is one of the best ways to immediately boost your income. The Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that earning a master's degree may even net you an $80,000 per year wage premium over someone in a similar position that holds a bachelor’s degree.

Today, Herb Ammons offers insight on going back to school as a veteran so that you can take control of your finances and remove one worry from your life.

Why Should I Go Back to School?

That’s the burning question, isn’t it? Why go back? After all, you have experience and you are an obvious leader. But, just because you have experience, doesn’t mean that you can’t benefit from an education as well. We’ve already mentioned money, but there are many other reasons to earn a degree. These include, according to Money Under 30:

●      You’re switching careers and need credentials

●      You started school before, but now you want to finish

●      You need specific training to go further in your current field

Plus, if you’re a parent that wants your children to go to college, they are more likely to go if you have. It’s also a great way to show the kids that you can do whatever you put your mind to, no matter where you’ve been or where you are in life now.

Best Degrees/Industries for Veterans 

The type of degree that’s best for you depends on your interest. For many veterans, earning a criminal justice degree might be a smart choice, particularly if you choose to work for the federal government, where you can make around $92,000 per year working for the FBI. However, many veterans want to get into business, so earning an MBA is a great option. An MBA will give you the skills you need to be successful across many sectors. You’ll learn about finance, marketing, strategic planning, and corporate accounting. As an MBA holder, you might work as a business manager, GM, administrator, or any other number of high-ranking positions, each of which may open the door to the executive suite.

Regardless of the type of degree you earn or your interests, as a working adult, going back to school online now gives you the flexibility to get your degree without sacrificing work, family, or personal time. 

Special Considerations

Like other working adults, you’ll have special considerations that you want to put at the forefront of your mind as you choose a school, degree, or industry. The Association of American Colleges & Universities explains that, while paying for college likely won’t be a problem thanks to the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, there are other hurdles. As a veteran, you may be older than your peers. You might suffer from PTSD or other issues that might interfere with your ability to learn the same as other students. Look for a school that has a strong veteran community, which should include support groups and access to veteran and disability services. 

When you go back to school, you give yourself an extra weapon in the fight against low wages. You have an opportunity to change careers or enhance the one you’re already in. You’ve already served your country, and now it is time to serve yourself and your family by looking out for your financial future.

Herb Ammons wants you to learn from yesterday, live for today, and hope for tomorrow. His 12 Steps to a Happy Life can help you get there.