Education

Online vs Traditional Education for Military: Making the Right Choice

Wings Ready Team
January 15, 2024
9 min read
The Military Education Landscape

Military personnel face unique challenges when pursuing higher education, including deployments, PCS moves, irregular schedules, and family responsibilities. Understanding the differences between online and traditional education can help you make the best choice for your situation.

Key Considerations for Military Students:

  • Deployment and training schedule flexibility
  • Geographic mobility and PCS moves
  • Time zone changes and irregular hours
  • Family obligations and childcare needs
  • Technology access and internet reliability
Online Education: Advantages and Challenges

Advantages of Online Education:

  • Flexibility: Study anytime, anywhere with internet access
  • PCS-Friendly: Continue education regardless of location
  • Deployment Compatible: Maintain progress during deployments
  • Self-Paced: Work around military schedules and duties
  • Cost-Effective: No commuting or relocation costs
  • Technology Skills: Develop valuable digital competencies

Challenges of Online Education:

  • Self-Discipline Required: Need strong time management skills
  • Limited Interaction: Less face-to-face contact with peers and instructors
  • Technology Dependence: Requires reliable internet and equipment
  • Hands-On Limitations: Some subjects require physical presence
  • Isolation: Can feel disconnected from campus community
Traditional Education: Benefits and Drawbacks

Benefits of Traditional Education:

  • Direct Interaction: Face-to-face learning with instructors and peers
  • Campus Resources: Access to libraries, labs, and facilities
  • Networking: Build relationships with classmates and faculty
  • Structured Environment: Regular schedule and accountability
  • Hands-On Learning: Laboratory work and practical experiences
  • Campus Life: Full college experience and activities

Drawbacks for Military Students:

  • Location Dependent: Difficult with PCS moves and deployments
  • Schedule Conflicts: Fixed class times may conflict with duties
  • Geographic Limitations: Limited options in some duty locations
  • Higher Costs: Commuting, parking, and campus fees
  • Family Impact: Time away from family for classes
Hybrid and Blended Learning Options

Many institutions now offer hybrid programs that combine online and in-person elements, providing flexibility while maintaining some traditional benefits.

Hybrid Learning Models:

  • Flipped Classroom: Online lectures, in-person discussions and activities
  • Weekend Intensives: Online coursework with periodic weekend sessions
  • Residency Programs: Mostly online with short on-campus residencies
  • Local Partnerships: Online courses with local testing and support centers
  • Synchronous Online: Live virtual classes with real-time interaction
Military-Specific Considerations by Branch and Role

Best for Online Education:

  • Deployed personnel
  • Frequent PCS movers
  • Shift workers and irregular schedules
  • Remote or overseas assignments
  • Single parents or primary caregivers
  • Those in areas with limited college options

Best for Traditional Education:

  • Stable, long-term assignments
  • STEM fields requiring lab work
  • Healthcare and medical programs
  • Those near major universities
  • Students needing structured environment
  • Career fields requiring hands-on training
Making Your Decision: Key Questions

Questions to Consider:

  • How often do you PCS or deploy?
  • What are your current family and work obligations?
  • Do you have reliable internet access?
  • What type of learner are you (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)?
  • Does your chosen field require hands-on experience?
  • What educational institutions are available in your area?
  • How important is networking and campus life to you?
  • What are your long-term career goals?
Recommended Military-Friendly Schools

Top Online Programs:

  • Arizona State University Online: Comprehensive degree options
  • University of Maryland Global Campus: Military-focused programs
  • Southern New Hampshire University: Accelerated online degrees
  • Penn State World Campus: Strong online reputation
  • Colorado State University Global: Military partnerships

Military-Friendly Traditional Schools:

  • University of Maryland: Near major military installations
  • Old Dominion University: Strong military presence
  • University of Texas System: Multiple military-friendly campuses
  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Aviation and aerospace focus
  • Troy University: Extensive military campus network
Your Education Decision Framework
  1. Assess your military career timeline and stability
  2. Evaluate your learning style and preferences
  3. Research degree requirements for your chosen field
  4. Consider your family situation and support system
  5. Investigate available schools and programs in your area
  6. Compare costs and available military benefits
  7. Talk to other military students about their experiences
  8. Consider starting with one course to test your preference
  9. Plan for potential changes in your military situation
  10. Choose the option that best fits your current and future needs