Deciding to earn a Master’s degree to further your career is a big undertaking. There is a strong level of dedication required to complete the program. Some people have the opportunity to take a full load of courses and dedicate their full attention to their Master’s program. However, many others, including men and women who are serving in the military, have to find a way to balance a full time job with an education. If you are active duty in the military, you have options for earning your Master’s degree in psychology while still serving your country.
Earning a Masters in Psychology
The length of time it takes to earn a Master’s degree depends on the academic program offered at the school, as well as your schedule. Some programs may offer certain classes only once a year, which impacts your schedule. In addition, taking a full load of courses will get you through the program faster than if you only take one or two classes a semester.
Online Programs
When you are active duty military, you need to be able to leave where you are to serve anywhere in the world. This can make it difficult to pursue a Master’s degree in a traditional on-campus program.
The good news is that more and more colleges and universities offer online programs that allow you to earn your degree from anywhere. This allows you to complete your degree no matter where you are stationed to serve, even if you are serving outside of the United States.
Academic Assistance
In appreciation to the men and women who serve in the military, some schools offer assistance programs for active duty military to earn degrees. The details of the programs vary by school. Some may offer scholarships and grants, while others may offer stipends to assist with other bills, or full paid tuition.
When you choose a college or university for your Master’s program, ask your admissions counselor or financial aid representative about programs in place for active duty military.
Military Assistance
The military also supports men and women who want to further their education and earn degrees.
The GI Bill is one of the most well known programs in place to help men and women in the military earn degrees and civilian career training. Details about the GI Bill can be found here. Many people think of the GI Bill as being for those who are no longer active duty military, but there are GI Bill benefits for those who are active duty.
Branches of the military have other programs in place, as well, to help servicemen and women continue education while in the military. There are eligibility requirements for different military branches, but the military understands the importance of education, and encourages those serving to better themselves through education.
If you are currently serving in the military, you don’t have to put your goal of a Master’s degree in psychology on hold. With the right combination of support from the military and the college or university you choose for your program, you can earn your degree and further your career goals.
