For military personnel looking to expand their career opportunities after service, going back to school can be a beneficial career advancement investment. You’ve had a successful military career, but now it’s time to translate those skills learned into the business world. Whether you are a Veteran business owner or are simply looking to advance your current career, enrollment in a bachelor's completion program (BSM) or a graduate business degree program (MBA or MS) is one way to help you achieve your professional aspirations.

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Tips for Choosing a University That’s Right for You

When choosing the perfect university for your educational needs, it’s important to look beyond the beautiful libraries, landscape, and dining halls. There are many factors to consider when going back to school, including cost, transportation, and living arrangements. When choosing the right university for you, you’ll need to look at several factors.

Tuition Costs

Most colleges offer tuition assistance to service members, making a college education more affordable. To reduce your financial burden upon graduation, be sure to research the school’s tuition, scholarships offered and other financial aid options.

Location

Where you attend college matters. Do you want to stay in state or venture out? Do you plan to live on campus or commute? These are all important factors to consider when enrolling in a university degree program.

Flexibility

For Veterans who make the decision to go back to school, life doesn't just stop. Often you have more responsibiliities and commitments than the average college student. That is why it is important to look for a degree program that is flexible.

Working during the day? Maybe and evening grad program works best for you. Live out of state or travel often for work? Consider looking into an online program. Often, the key to success in any degree program is flexibility.

Course Offerings and Programs

Many schools offer specialized degree programs for certain areas of study, such as nursing, education, or engineering. Have a specific focus area that you want to pursue?  Be sure to check out the college’s degree offerings to see if they align with your long-term goals.

If you are considering applying to grad school after completing your undergrad, it might be worth investigating if the college you are applying to has degree options that you might want to pursue in the future.

What Are the Best Degrees For Veterans?

Going back to school can be a big commitment. That is why you’ll want to ensure that you choose the best degree option that will fulfill your goals and get you to where you want to be career-wise.

If you have your sights on attending the best universities in the US, then you'll want to make sure your application is at its best. Be sure to highlight your military experience, resume, skillsets, and problem-solving skills.

Deciding what college degree is best depends on a number of factors, but it all comes down to personal preference. However, there are certain degree options that student Veterans tend to favor more than others. Check them out below.

Here are the top 6 most popular college degrees for student Veterans:

• Criminal Justice
• Nursing
• Engineering
• Education
• Computer Science
• Business

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Why is Pepperdine One of the Best Military Universities in the US?

The University is committed to providing educational benefits and support. In 75 years, Pepperdine is proud to have supported nearly 500 enrolled service members, Veterans, and dependents.

Annually they invested around $3M in order to cover tuition costs for qualified students as an active member of the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program. This will allow Veterans to finish their studies without any hindrances. Here are some of the reasons why it is mentioned as one of the best universities in the US:

1. There is comprehensive tuition coverage for the nationally ranked programs, which include Doctorate, Master's, Bachelor's degrees, and more.
2. Choose from various setups, such as online, in-person, or hybrid.
3. Further, the University acknowledges and values the experiences and abilities veterans contribute.
4. The school provides teamwork and camaraderie, which is found in the military.
5. Veterans can even further expand their ethical leadership skills.
6. Veterans will have the best mentorship from well-known faculty who understand the challenges in the business world.

Discounts and Programs from the Best Universities in the US

Pepperdine is always giving back to the community. Its number one program is called Scholarships for Veterans, but it also has other programs.

As one of the best universities in the US and a Yellow Ribbon Partner, they cover the fee expenses and all tuition above the post-9/11 GI Bill provides. This is also limitless, so many students can benefit from it.

The University even holds various programs; they will be having an upcoming event on Wed, April 17, 2024, at 6:00 PM PT called Executive Programs Ask Me Anything and on Sat, April 20, 2024, at 10:00 AM PT, Part-Time Programs Virtual Classroom Experience and Information Session.

Pepperdine University - A Top Choice for Civilian and Military Education

Dubbed as one of the best Universities in the US, Pepperdine is committed to providing the highest standards with a balance of academic and Christian values. To help students face the real world, they are prepared to face life purpose, leadership, and service challenges.

The University boasts its five separate graduate and undergraduate schools, eighty-seven degree programs university-wide, being among the top twenty most beautiful campuses by Princeton Review, and lastly, holds the nineteenth spot of the most beautiful college campuses by bestcolledgereview.org.

Pepperdine University is a no-brainer choice for military personnel and civilians who want to get the best education. With a close military community and various programs, there are many opportunities to make your skills and dreams achievable.

Explore why enrolling in this school and building your career is excellent, life-long investment. If you have any further questions regarding getting scholarships or any program you're interested in, contact them via 310.506.4100 or email them at pgbsadm@pepperdine.edu.

This editorial is a result of a collaboration with Pepperdine University.

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