When service members hang up their uniforms and step into civilian life, the transition can feel like a leap into the unknown. But for many veterans, the Post-9/11 GI Bill can be a bridge to better opportunities.
The benefit covers tuition, housing and book costs, and allows veterans to set themselves up for greater career opportunities with higher salaries.
Supported by this incredible perk, over 700,000 veterans and their family members enter college or trade school each year.
Workers with bachelor's degrees earn significantly more on average compared to those with only a high school diploma -- about $24,000 more per year than those with a high school diploma, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Over the course of a career, this gap widens. After a forty-year span, workers with degrees generally earn 66% more than those who don't.
If you're one of the 2.7 million veterans eligible for free college education, choosing your major is an important decision. Fortunately, many universities have staff dedicated to making the process of going back to school as painless as possible.
These experts, often veterans themselves, can help you think about your strengths and interests, as well as which degree program can help you accomplish your life and career goals. In a perfect world, your path of study will meet all these criteria. There are, however, some careers that may be a natural fit for veterans given their training and experience.
Here are four degrees to consider.
1. Computer Science/Information Technology
In recent years, the military has become more technically advanced, with many service members working in fields of computer networking, cybersecurity and web development. Add that to the increased demand for IT professionals, and you may conclude a degree in computer science or information technology is the right choice.
The BLS projects that employment for software developers will grow by 25% from 2022 to 2032, significantly faster than the average for all occupations. A shortage of qualified IT professionals helps keep salaries and company perks competitive. Because technology permeates all aspects of life, you can choose to work for a company in an industry you are passionate about.
If you enjoy varied opportunities for learning, working with new tools, and developing innovative solutions for better business and the future, consider a tech career. Some schools offer IT degrees that include certification prep and exams as part of the coursework, saving you money and time.
2. Business
Many of the leadership qualities taught and esteemed in the military are the same as those exemplified by influential business leaders. These include clear communication, goal development, plan execution, evaluation of successes and losses.
Every member of the armed forces receives leadership training, and most have had these skills tested. All have learned how to work under leadership, both good and bad.
Active duty military members are trained to serve and protect, working toward a common goal regardless of background or role. They know that every member of the team is essential to the success of the group. These teambuilding skills translate well into business careers. After entering the civilian world, many veterans miss the teamwork taught in the military.
If combining your military skills with some course work in finance, marketing, and business principles sounds interesting to you, consider a business degree.
3. Nursing
Those who have served their country often want to contribute to the greater good. A post-military career in nursing can not only satisfy this desire, but can provide outstanding job opportunities and security. This field makes sense for those who have a background in the military's medical corps. But even those with no medical training can find a fresh start in nursing school.
The United States is facing a significant nursing shortage, with projections indicating that this issue will persist and potentially worsen in the coming years. The BLS projects an average of 194,500 job openings for registered nurses each year from 2020 to 2030, reflecting both new positions and replacements for retiring nurses.
Nationwide, the median nursing salary is $59,730 for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), $86,070 for registered nurses (RNs), and $123,780 for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience and healthcare setting.
Nursing is one of the more flexible professions. Because nurses are essential, you can pretty much work when you want and where you want. Do you want to work full time or part-time? Do you want to take a year off and return to work? With a career in nursing, all these options are possible.
A nursing career also can offer the potential for career growth. By expanding your education and pursuing an advanced degree, as a nurse, you can become an educator, manager or a nurse practitioner, all of which command high salaries.
Overall job satisfaction in the field remains relatively high at 80%, according to the National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (2022), conducted by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
4. Teaching
Leadership, integrity, and commitment. Recognize a theme? America's best teachers and veterans have these qualities in common. For those who want to serve their country again in a second career, the classroom may offer a rewarding experience.
Some veterans crave a challenge, and a career teaching young people will certainly provide it. No two days are alike.
"After 15 years of teaching, I have experienced everything: elation, frustration, fury, terror, amusement, astonishment -- but never boredom. The job is never the same from day to day, from hour to hour," said Dr. David Nurenberg, a professor, educational consultant and writer in the Boston area who teaches courses at both the high school and graduate level.
There will always be a demand for teachers. While some careers have been replaced by technology, instructors will still be necessary. By pursuing a degree in education and distinguishing yourself as an exemplary teacher, you can secure yourself a lifetime of employment. Interested in an upward career trajectory? Additional coursework can lead you to become an administrator, counselor, or county supervisor.
While there are salary challenges, there are avenues for teachers to secure a decent wage, especially if they are open to continuing education, moving to a district with better pay, or finding supplemental income opportunities. Teachers with advanced degrees (master's or doctoral) typically earn higher salaries than those with only a bachelor's degree. Additionally, educators who teach in specialized areas such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) or special education may have higher earning potential.
Teaching is a highly transferable skill. With the proper certification, you can work almost anywhere in the world. If you're looking for an adventure and an opportunity to change the future, consider a career in education.
A Final Thought
Whatever major you choose, your military service has equipped you with discipline, organizational skills, management ability, and attentiveness to detail. These abilities will serve you well and give you an edge as you face the social and academic challenges of college life.
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