Active servicemembers may prefer the flexibility offered by a 100% online program, particularly if they are stationed overseas or working unconventional hours. The same holds true for veterans who are considering transitioning to the civilian workforce or who may have a service-related disability that makes attending on-campus classrooms difficult.

The following looks at the advantages of earning an online education and preparing for success in an online classroom.

Tips for Success in Online Education

Online learning is a phrase that encompasses different types of web-based classrooms. For example, some are self-paced and allow students to check in, read the materials, complete assignments and take exams at any time. Others ensure weekly requirements are met before moving forward and provide communication tools that allow instructors to provide immediate help and feedback. The key is finding the program that best fits your learning style. 

Like all online students, active-duty servicemembers and veterans should follow certain guidelines to prepare for success in an online classroom. This includes identifying a quiet space dedicated for classwork, practicing good time management, and using communication tools to keep in touch with faculty and classmates.

Keith Nguyen, a veteran who graduated from Villanova University’s online Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, explained the benefits of the online classroom in this way: “The flexible online format allowed me to successfully complete the program while balancing my other obligations. The connections I’ve made with the professors, staff and my peers were invaluable. Their continued support throughout was greatly appreciated.”

It’s also important to remember that online students must manage their own schedule and workload accordingly and remove distractions while completing class assignments. Compared to a traditional on-campus classroom, online students generally have the flexibility to complete required readings and assignments on their own schedule. However, online classes require the same level of time and energy as on-campus classes. Students should remember to set aside time for weekly studies while balancing career and life commitments.

Expanded Learning Opportunities

The ability to complete coursework anywhere with an internet connection may be advantageous for active-duty personnel who are interested in taking courses online while serving overseas. U.S. Air Force Captain Tom Higginbotham, a Villanova MPA graduate who began courses while stationed overseas, said one unexpected benefit was “the personal connections, mentorship and depth of learning beyond the classroom.”

Online education also is beneficial for veterans who may want to attend school in Pennsylvania but live in Texas or Florida. Online education allows eligible students the opportunity to attend the academic institution they want, even if it’s far away.

Finding the Right Online Program

Villanova University salutes the outstanding individuals who have served and are currently serving in the military while pursuing higher education. Villanova is committed to helping current servicemembers and veterans achieve their educational goals.

You may be eligible to use your Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits for many of Villanova’s 100% online non-credit certificate programs, based upon your individual circumstances. Villanova’s programs offer additional advantages to servicemembers and veterans seeking a high-quality online program. They include the following.

Online Convenience and Communication Channels

Discussion boards, group study, chat rooms and virtual classes provide ways for online students to connect with classmates and instructors from the privacy of their own home. This type of interaction allows students to build networking connections and learn from the perspectives of professionals in a variety of fields. Online programs may also allow students to access course materials anywhere from a computer, tablet or mobile device. Courses are divided into academic weeks, with tasks for each week that are clearly delineated.

According to Ret. Col. Andrew Molnar, Villanova’s online classroom helped him build professional relationships with colleagues while gaining knowledge and skills in the Applied Project Management program.

“The online tool was outstanding. It’s the best online classroom environment I’ve ever seen, and I felt like I was sitting in class with the instructor and fellow students. The tool and the instructors combined to create an environment where students could learn together, collaborate and share products and information. I made lifelong professional friends due to the positive interactions at Villanova.”

Live Lectures

Each week, students meet with their professor and fellow students for real-time, discussion-based class. These sessions provide students with real-time feedback and encourage peer-to-peer learning and practical application of the material.

“Having live lectures and class discussions is critical,” said MPA graduate Higginbotham. “It allows you to build relationships that you could not do through emails and it brings issues to life from classmates and professors with real-world examples.”

Clock Hour-Based Certificate Programs

According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, clock hours “are the total number of actual hours per week a student spends attending class or other instructional activities that count toward completing a program of study.” A list of VA-approved clock hour programs can be found online at https://inquiry.vba.va.gov/weamspub/buildSearchInstitutionCriteria.do.

Military Savings – Villanova also offers a 15% savings per non-credit certificate course and a 10% savings per course on degree programs to active-duty servicemembers, Guardsmen and Reservists, veterans, spouses and dependents (upon verification of military or discharge status).*

Prospective students may also be eligible for the following benefits depending on their unique situation.

Military Tuition Assistance –The U.S. military tuition assistance program pays up to 100% of tuition fees for full-time, active-duty servicemembers up to a maximum of $250 per credit hour and a personal maximum of $2,250 per fiscal year for members of the Coast Guard or $4,500 per fiscal year for members of other branches.

Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Montgomery GI Bill®, and Educational Assistance Programs – Military servicemembers and veterans may be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Montgomery GI Bill®, Reserve Educational Assistance Program, Post-Vietnam-Era Veteran’s Educational Assistance Program or other options. Visit the Department of Veterans Affairs website for more information about educational assistance and eligibility.

GI Bill^® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

*This reduction is valid off the standard tuition fee rate of the listed courses offered by Villanova University with online administration by Bisk. This reduction is not stackable with other reduction, and you may not use this reduction in conjunction with other reductions. Reduction is based on eligibility requirements and proof of service.

Information provided as to the availability and eligibility for military or veteran education assistance programs is for general informational use only. Please check with your Education Services Officer or local Department of Veterans Affairs for eligibility, benefit amount and application processes specific to your situation.

VA Benefit Eligibility: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) to view which programs of study or courses are currently certified. Benefit certification depends upon your VA determined eligibility, enrollment status and certified program of study.

How To Apply for Marine Corps TA

Marines must first contact their Marine Corps Voluntary Education Center to receive counseling on creating an education plan, finding a school, and selecting courses.

Marines apply for MCTA through the MyNavyEducation site. The MCTA application should be started 60 days before the start of the term date. All MCTA applications must receive approval from command.

Requirements To Receive Command Approval

Getting command approval involves meeting a list of requirements. In the first group, the answers to the following questions must be “yes.”

• If the Marine is enlisted, does the Marine have an end of active service (EAS) date at least 60 days beyond completion date of the requested course?
• If the Marine is a Reserve component officer on active duty orders, does the Marine have an EAS date at least two years beyond the completion date of the requested class?
• If applicable, has the Marine been recommended for promotion?
• Has the Marine completed the MCI Personal Financial Management Course (Course IDMCIZ3420GZ)?

In this second group, the answers must be “no.”

• Has the Marine received a non-judicial punishment within six months?
• Is the Marine pending administrative separation?
• Is the Marine assigned to MOS school or residential or non-residential PME (e.g., Command Staff College, Corporal’s Course, Sergeants Course, or Career Course)?

This summary of requirements is based on available Marine Corps guidance (MARADMINS 765/20). Please contact your Marine Corps Voluntary Education Center for the most current information.

Even if a Marine meets the above requirements, authorization is not automatic. They will need to ensure that they have been given command approval before the MCTA application is sent to the Voluntary Education Center for final approval before the start date of the class.

Marine Corps TA Details

Eligible Marines may receive MCTA if they attend a school that has signed a Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding. Villanova University is on the list of participating schools. MCTA can be used for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs, as well as certain certificate programs. 

MCTA is available to Marine officers and active duty personnel, certain mobilized Marine Reservists on continuous active duty, certain enlisted mobilized Marine Reservists ordered to active duty, and certain mobilized Marine Reserve officers ordered to active duty. Per a 2019 policy change, there is no longer a minimum time in service requirement to receive MCTA.

Marines can receive a maximum of $4,500 of MCTA per fiscal year for 100% of tuition costs, or up to $250 per semester hour, whichever is less. MCTA covers tuition charges, but it cannot be used for non-tuition fees. MCTA is authorized for first-time applicants for only one course, unless the Marine has an associate degree or at least 60 academic credits with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Marines may not participate in more than two MCTA-funded classes simultaneously. Marines who fail to complete a course will be required to return the MCTA funds. To avoid being required to return MCTA funds, Marines must maintain a “C” grade or higher in undergraduate courses, or a “B” grade or higher in graduate programs.   

Per Marine Corps guidance, Marines are eligible to obtain one MCTA-funded certificate during their career. The Marine Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) site connects Marines with certificate programs that can help them improve their Marine service career and make the transition to a civilian career easier. 

Beyond tuition assistance, Marines may also seek financial aid for their education through other means such as Pell Grants, the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, and scholarships. Information on the Post-9/11 GI Bill® is also available from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. 

Information provided as to the availability and eligibility for military or veteran education assistance programs is for general informational use only. Benefit certification depends upon, among other things, your eligibility, enrollment status, and certified program of study.

MCVEC: Visit your Marine Corps Voluntary Education Center for more information on the MCTA program, including eligibility, benefit amount, and application processes specific to your situation.

VA Benefits: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Education and Training Benefits page for more information. Also, visit the Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) to view which programs of study or courses are currently certified.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

Earning a college degree or professional certificate in a specific functional area may also help individuals considering transition into the corporate world. Advancing your education is something encouraged by the military through programs such as Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL).

Also, according to LinkedIn, private business, government agencies and nonprofit organizations value many of the soft skills veterans develop and hone during service, including detail orientation, integrity, leadership, problem-solving, critical thinking and the ability to work well on teams.

In 2019, 18.8 million men and women in the United States were veterans, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). About 4.3 million of those are Gulf War-era II veterans, defined as those who have served since September 2001. 

Importance of Education

Earning a degree has an impact on employment for both those in the military and non-veteran workers. According to 2019 data from the federal government (updated as of May 2020), the median weekly pay for workers based on educational attainment is as follows.

• Less than a high school diploma – $592
• High school diploma – $746
• Associate degree – $887
• Bachelor’s degree – $1,248
• Master’s degree – $1,497

The median pay for entry-level workers may be less for each category. Education levels also correlate with unemployment. For example, in 2019, those with a bachelor’s degree had a median unemployment rate of 2.2%, while the unemployment rate for those with a high school diploma was 3.7%.

This is especially important for veterans. About 270,000 veterans are discharged every year, according to Hire Heroes USA, a nonprofit that assists transitioning military members, veterans and military spouses with employment searches. However, according to the organization, only 20% of military members have a job lined up when they leave the service.

In an effort to prepare servicemembers for civilian transition, the Veterans Opportunity to Work and Hire Heroes Act of 2011 requires all veterans to go through a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) where they can get information on finding civilian jobs that match their skills and interests.

Career Opportunities For Veterans

The combination of skills learned in the military and further education has made the following careers as potential transition opportunities for veterans. 

Management Occupations

Veterans who possess team leadership, communication and critical thinking skills may transition well to management occupations. About 40% of all veterans are engaged in professional management positions, according to the March 2020 Employment Situation of Veterans News Release from the BLS.

Management occupations are projected to grow by 7% through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. According to the latest BLS data, the median annual salary of management positions was $105,660 in May 2019, which was the highest annual wage of all the major occupation groups. The median pay for entry-level workers may be less for each category.

Public Agencies

Statistics show employed Gulf War-era II veterans are twice as likely to work in the public sector as non-veterans. According to the BLS news release, in 2019, 15% of Gulf War-era II veterans worked for the federal government.

Transportation Occupations

According to a BLS report showing the 2019 annual averages of employment by occupation for both veterans and non-veterans, production, transportation, and material moving occupations account for 17.1% of all veteran occupations, compared to 11.6% for non-veterans.

Jobs in this area can range from truck drivers to supply chain managers and mechanics. Employment of all transportation and material moving occupations is projected to increase by 3% through 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Engineering, Science and Technical Fields

According to the BLS, thousands of individuals specialize in engineering, science and technical fields. All three translate well into the civilian world, as 16% of all military jobs in 2017 were in these fields, compared to 6% of all civilian jobs. 

Transitioning From a Military to Civilian Career

The U.S. Department of Labor provides a detailed guide and training for active-duty personnel who aspire to transition from the military to a civilian job. The training seeks to teach servicemembers important strategies for seeking employment. They include advice for all those making the transition, including:

• Conducting job research for selected careers
• Understanding the civilian work environment 
• Recognizing basic sections of a resume
• Identifying network contacts
• Drafting a headline and summary for a LinkedIn profile
• Connecting skills and abilities with the needs of an employer

While the transition from military to civilian life may hold certain challenges, veterans should remember that they possess skills and experience that can help them secure a job. Veterans can be especially attractive candidates when skills learned in military service match to those used in civilian jobs. Veterans should accurately highlight all the related experience obtained while actively serving in the Armed Forces.

While the military offers a variety of services to help transitioning veterans, there are also professional résumé writers and career coaches that can help clarify military experience for civilian executives and hiring managers. Earning an online degree or professional certificate may also provide veterans an advantage when seeking a civilian job.

National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth. Information provided is not intended to represent a complete list of hiring companies or job titles, and program options do not guarantee career or salary outcomes. Students should conduct independent research for specific employment information.

VA Benefit Eligibility: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) to view which programs of study or courses are currently certified. Benefit certification depends upon your VA determined eligibility, enrollment status and certified program of study.

Information provided as to the availability and eligibility for military or veteran education assistance programs is for general informational use only. Please check with your Education Services Officer or local Department of Veterans Affairs for eligibility, benefit amount and application processes specific to your situation.

Veterans who are considering enrolling in a degree or non-credit certificate program at Villanova University can visit the military overview page for information about Villanova’s online programs or the Office of Veterans and Military Service Members page for information about Villanova’s on campus resources.

Veterans can find useful information about many aspects of attending college during or after serving their country, from how to maximize military education benefits to methods of “de-militarizing” a military resume.

The following tips also can help prepare veterans for courses at Villanova, both online and on campus.

Tips For Military Students

In most cases, veterans who become college students have been away from school for several years. They may decide to enroll right after transitioning out of the military or after a break between military service and school. The average age of veterans attending college in 2016 was 25, according to the Postsecondary National Policy Institute.

In the same year, veterans made up about 6% of all undergraduate college students and 7% of graduate students, according to federal numbers reported by Inside Higher Education. 

If you want to count yourself among that number, the following tips may help pave the way to success.

Manage Your Finances

Having school finances in order from the start may help students focus all their energy on classwork. However, navigating the system can seem overwhelming. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a great deal of information on the Post 9/11 GI Bill®, the Montgomery GI Bill®, the Forever GI Bill® and other issues related to funding veterans’ education.

If you are interested in advancing your education through Villanova University, you may be eligible to use your VA education benefits for Villanova’s 100% online non-credit certificate programs, based upon your individual eligibility. The school also offers a 15% tuition savings per certificate course and a 10% savings per course on degree programs for military veterans as well as active-duty servicemembers, Guardsmen, Reservists and military spouses and dependents (upon verification of military or discharge status)*. 

On-campus students may also be eligible to use VA educational benefits at Villanova. Per the University’s Office of Veterans and Military Service Members website: “If you qualify, you must select which benefit to receive. You cannot receive payment for more than one benefit at a time. If you are eligible for more than one benefit, you should contact the VA to discuss your educational plans.”

More information about VA education benefits can be found on the Department of Veterans Affairs website or Villanova’s VA Educational Benefits Information Packet.

Choose the Right School

Veterans may be interested in exploring college programs offered by military-friendly schools. They may also want to attend college at an academic institution that is a GI Bill®-approved school. A list of these schools is maintained by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  Villanova University is on both lists.

Take Advantage of Resources

In addition to the resources offered by Villanova University, veterans also can contact their local VA office for education counseling services. The VA offers educational and career counseling benefits, known as Chapter 36, to those who will be discharged in the next six months or who left military service within the last year.

The U.S. Department of Education also offers the Upward Bound program for veterans to help them to prepare for college. According to the Department of Education, the program assesses and enhances skills veterans need to succeed in school through “counseling, mentoring, tutoring and academic instruction in the core subject areas.”

How to Prepare for Online Success

Veterans who choose to enroll in an online program can prepare for success by focusing on issues such as creating a space at home dedicated to attending class. They also should practice time management and make use of the many communication tools provided to online Villanova students that can keep them in touch with professors and classmates.

Online students also must manage their own school schedule as they have more flexibility on when they complete assignments. It’s important to set a schedule that allows for ample time to focus energy on schoolwork.

Network With Fellow Students

Networking is one of the most important aspects of college. As the American Psychological Association writes: “We often tell our students that what you know gets you in the room but it is who you know that will get you a seat at the table. You should network if you are passionate about your field and want to be engaged in the discipline.” They also note that networking is intended to build relationships over long periods of time, and business contacts often lead to friendships.

Villanova’s programs provide communication channels that allow students to interact, even in an online environment. Veterans will not only have a chance to connect with other veterans who may be in the class, but other students from all backgrounds and experiences.

*This reduction is valid off the standard tuition fee rate of the listed courses offered by Villanova University with online administration by Bisk. This reduction is not stackable with other reductions, and you may not use this reduction in conjunction with other reductions. Reduction is based on eligibility requirements and proof of service.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Information provided as to the availability and eligibility for military or veteran education assistance programs is for general informational use only. Please check with your Education Services Officer or local Department of Veterans Affairs for eligibility, benefit amount and application processes specific to your situation.

VA Benefit Eligibility: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) to view which programs of study or courses are currently certified. Benefit certification depends upon your VA determined eligibility, enrollment status and certified program of study.

Who Qualifies for Coast Guard Tuition Assistance?

The Coast Guard authorizes tuition assistance for active-duty members, according to the official FY21 Coast Guard Tuition Assistance Policy (“CG Policy”). CGTA is only offered for those who are getting their first certificate or degree. The Coast Guard does not offer CGTA to those seeking a degree at the same or lower level than one they have already earned. CGTA also will not be authorized for any degree above a master’s degree, including Juris Doctor, doctoral degrees, and similar terminal degrees.

In addition, active-duty Coast Guard members must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Satisfactory progress toward completion of unit qualifications,
2. Satisfactory progress toward watch station qualifications,
3. Satisfactory proficiency of craft, and
4. Satisfactory conduct during the prior six months.

How Much Does Coast Guard Tuition Assistance Pay?

The maximum amount of CGTA that the Coast Guard will pay is set at the following levels, according to the CGTA Policy.

• $250.00 per semester hour
• $166.67 per quarter hour
• $16.67 per clock hour

The policy also states that annual CGTA is capped at $2,250 and that lifetime benefits cannot exceed 130 semester hours for an undergraduate degree or 40 semester hours for a master’s degree.

CGTA cannot be applied to fees, such as book, lab, graduation, and internet usage fees. Coast Guardsmen may use CGTA only at schools that have signed a Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding. Villanova University is among the participating schools.

How to Apply For Coast Guard Tuition Assistance

Coast Guardsmen must receive approval to apply for CGTA from their commanding officer. They must also complete a tuition assistance counseling worksheet to determine eligibility. Coast Guardsmen are encouraged to work with their local Education Services Officer (ESO) to develop a plan for completing their degree or certificate program.

Coast Guard members must complete and file a tuition assistance application with the Coast Guard no less than 14 days before classes start. The application is submitted to the Education and Training Quota Management Command (ETQC) via the online MyEducationPortal.

ESOs must validate degree plans prior to approval of the CGTA application.

Sources of Funding Beyond Tuition Assistance

Coast Guardsmen may be eligible to seek financial aid from non-Coast Guard sources, such as federal student aid like Pell Grants and loans. According to the CG Policy, federal student assistance received through the U.S. Department of Education will not subtract from what is received through CGTA. 

Coast Guardsmen may also qualify for the Tuition Assistance Top-Up Program under the GI Bill®. If a Coast Guardsman uses the Montgomery GI Bill® for this purpose, they will receive the difference between CGTA and the total cost of the course. If a Coast Guardsman uses the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”) will pay the school the difference between CGTA and the authorized maximum tuition and fees. The VA recommends using the GI Bill® Comparison Tool before applying for benefits through the Top-Up Program. 

Information provided as to the availability and eligibility for military or veteran education assistance programs is for general informational use only. Benefit certification depends upon, among other things, your eligibility, enrollment status, and certified program of study.

CGTA: Please check with the local Education Services Officer (ESO) for eligibility, benefit amount, and application processes specific to your situation.

VA Benefits: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Education and Training Benefits page for more information. Also, visit the Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) to view which programs of study or courses are currently certified.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/.

Dating back to the U.S. Civil War, Villanova has forged a connection with the military in a variety of ways, including serving as a military hospital, becoming home to officer training programs and establishing a well-known Navy ROTC program.

The following looks at a few of those connections that have played a big role in the university’s development.

Saved By The Navy

One of the biggest connections between the military and Villanova centers on the fact that the U.S. Navy essentially saved the school in the 1940s.

During World War II, many young men were called into the service, putting the university in a tough financial situation, according to the student-run Villanova newspaper, The Villanovan. However, the Navy chose Villanova to host the V-12 officer’s program, a decision that saved the school. 

The Navy created the V-12 program to quickly add to the number of commissioned Navy officers during the war. The program, which ran from 1943 to 1946, eventually saw 125,000 students go through the program at various universities. 

Students in the Navy V-12 program at Villanova began classes on July 5, 1943, according to a 1943 article in the Villanovan. 

(Interestingly, this news shared space with the announcement that George Hoberg would become the first sophomore to edit the student newspaper. He eventually joined the V-12 program himself, graduated in 1945, served as an engineer on a Navy attack ship, then worked on the Project Whirlwind computer team and has his name on 11 U.S. patents).

The Navy students stayed at Fedigan, Mendel (now Tolentine Hall) and Alumni halls. Villanova’s president in 1943, Edward V. Stanford, welcomed students with a speech that focused on the education opportunities offered by the university. However, he also used humor to remind them of other opportunities.

“Fr. Stanford told the trainees of the religious opportunities available to them at Villanova,” the newspaper reported. “He stressed the fact that because it was so easy to attend the services some students were inclined to forget them.”

Stanford had worked hard to get the V-12 program at Villanova and quickly shifted the school to a different schedule, according to Villanova magazine. The school now held three full terms each year, with commencements held after each term. This allowed students in the V-12 program to graduate in three years if they took classes at an accelerated pace. 

The Navy ROTC Program at Villanova

This connection between Villanova and the U.S. Navy has remained strong in the years since. To this day, the Navy ROTC program at Villanova is among the most respected in the country.

The program, which began in 1946 after the V-12 program ended, has produced 22 Admirals and Generals in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The success of the program is due to a commitment to evolve, according to the school webpage on the topic.

“Continually changing over the decades to fit the needs of the Navy and the society that was indirectly funding it, the NROTC unit has each time met that challenge and evolved to maintain this same top-mark level, the page states.

Haunted Villanova

The connection with the military also has its lighter side. In the case of Villanova, it has produced some excellent scary tales for the Halloween season.

As with any university that has older buildings on campus, Villanova has its share of spooky stories. Many of them are founded in the fact that the university served as a hospital for Union soldiers during the Civil War. It also was used as a hospital for influenza victims during World War I.

This has led to persistent rumors through the years that halls on campus remain haunted, especially Alumni Hall. The east wing of Alumni, built in 1848, is the oldest building on the Villanova campus. It served as the college center during the early days of the university. 

The National Paranormal Society even has a page dedicated to the university. On Alumni Hall, they write that students have reported “ghosts of former patients” who wander the halls causing “abnormal creaks in the floors and walls when no one is nearby.”

The Villanova/Military Connection Continues Today

Today, in addition to the Navy ROTC program, Villanova offers degree and certificate programs that offer benefits to military servicemembers and veterans. Some are offered 100% online, giving military students the flexibility and convenience to advance their education.

Villanova also offers savings for military students and support in maximizing their military tuition assistance. Villanova is a military-friendly school that has signed the needed Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Defense, allowing military students to fully use their tuition assistance at the school, based on their individual eligibility.

Former U.S. Air Force Flight Instructor Thomas Higginbotham graduated from the school’s online Master of Public Administration program in 2017. In an interview, Higginbotham said he originally thought that earning an online master’s degree would be like earning a degree “through YouTube videos,” but soon had his mind changed.

“The personal connections, mentorship and depth of learning beyond the classroom were the unexpected benefits from Villanova’s MPA program,” Higginbotham said.

The connection between Villanova and the military has been strong throughout the years, and remains so to this day. The school provides many benefits and options for military servicemembers and veterans who aspire to earn a college education.

The GI Bill® was introduced in 1944, at a time when most legislators agreed that something needed to be done for military veterans. After all, World War I vets received just $60 and a train ticket home upon discharge. The inadequacy of that policy was highlighted during the Great Depression, when veterans faced great difficulties in finding work.

Congress attempted to make things easier by passing the World War Adjusted Act of 1924 (commonly known as the Bonus Act), which provided veterans a bonus based on the number of days served. However, the bonuses were not paid out immediately, which led to protests and standoffs in Washington, D.C., throughout the summer of 1932.

With a consensus that WWII vets deserved more, and a desire to improve upon the Bonus Act, the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 – or GI Bill® – was introduced in Congress.

The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (GI Bill® of Rights)

The GI Bill® was intended to help avert another economic crisis, as well as to provide Congress with some redemption. It was introduced in Congress in January 1944, and quickly passed in both the House and the Senate. However, each chamber passed its own version of the bill, and as Senate and House members debated the merits of their individual bills, they deadlocked on unemployment issues. A tie-breaking vote led to the bill being passed, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed it into law on June 22, 1944.

With its key provisions on education and training, loan guaranty for homes, farms and businesses, and unemployment pay, the GI Bill® changed the face of homeownership and college education in America. Some of the bill’s significant impacts include:

• Veterans entered college and training programs by the millions: In 1947, 49% of college admissions were veterans.
• By 1956, nearly half of WWII’s 16 million veterans had participated in education or training programs.
• From 1944 to 1952, nearly 2.4 million WWII veteran home loans were backed by the VA.
• VA loans totaled more than $50 billion by 1962.
• Education and economic assistance provided by the GI Bill® helped fuel demand for goods and services across the country.

Veterans of the Korean War found that the Veterans Adjustment Act of 1952 changed how their benefits were paid. Instead of paying colleges and universities directly, veterans received a flat amount each month (about $110) to pay all of their educational expenses. Eventually, payments decreased as tuitions increased.

The Montgomery GI Bill®

The Montgomery GI Bill® was named for Mississippi Representative G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery, who in 1984 designed legislation to ensure that the GI Bill® would live on as a permanent law. It offered educational benefits that Congress hoped would incentivize college-age individuals to enlist in the military. While the bipartisan bill did pass both houses of Congress, it took seven years of effort and nearly two dozen hearings to make it happen.

Under the bill, servicemembers, reservists and veterans received help with education and training for up to 36 months. Benefits cover college, business school, technical and vocational schools, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, flight training, accredited independent study programs and correspondence courses. With its benefits-for-service model, the Montgomery GI Bill® was influential in the transition to an all-volunteer force.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill®

Congress updated the GI Bill® again in 2008, with a focus on veterans with active duty service on or after Sept. 11, 2001. The latest version provides enhanced educational benefits, a monthly housing allowance, up to $1,000 per year to cover books and supplies, and the ability to transfer unused benefits to spouses or dependents.

Veterans Can Build Brighter Futures With the GI Bill®

For decades, millions of veterans and their families have taken advantage of the benefits provided by the GI Bill®. While the struggles to pass the bill were sometimes tumultuous, lawmakers ultimately saw the positive results of providing educational benefits to those who sacrificed to serve our country. Through the GI Bill®, countless careers have been launched, paths to prosperity paved, and lives improved.

GI Bill^® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

VA Benefit Eligibility: Visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) to view which programs of study or courses are currently certified. Benefit certification depends upon your VA determined eligibility, enrollment status and certified program of study.

Each year, Armed Forces Day centers on a unique theme designed to highlight the hard work and dedication of our servicemembers. Many events take place in cities across the country to honor those who serve. Activities often include parades, military service displays open to the public, educational exhibits to teach children about the armed forces, motorcycle rides and more. Taps is often played at these events as a way to show respect for those who died for their country.

Armed Forces Day Themes

The first Armed Forces Day was held on May 20, 1950 and given the “Teamed for Defense” theme. It was selected as a way to show that all branches of the military had been united under one department of the government.

This inaugural observance was celebrated with parades, receptions, open houses and air shows. Approximately 10,000 American troops marched past the president in Washington D.C., while 33,000 people in New York City commemorated with an air show that included 250 military planes. Famous World War II warships were in harbors across the country for the public to see, and precision flying teams filled the skies. The American people came together across the country to honor members of the Armed Forces.

Since then, other themes of Armed Forces Day have included:

• Appreciation of a Nation
• Freedom Through Unity
• Liberty
• Dedication and Devotion
• Power for Peace
• Honor Those Who Answered the Call to Serve

Military Facts for Armed Forces Day

• On July 26, 1947, President Harry S. Truman signed the National Security Act, which united all four branches of the military under one department of the government.
• In 1947, the National Military Establishment was created as a result of the National Security Act.
• The Department of Defense replaced the National Military Establishment in 1949.
• On the inaugural Armed Forces Day, B-36 bombers flew over every U.S. state capital.
• On March 18, 1961, President John F. Kennedy issued Proclamation 3399, making Armed Forces Day an official national holiday.
• The American flag is traditionally flown on Armed Forces Day. People also frequently wear patriotic colored clothing to commemorate the occasion.
• Sea, air and land military exercises are held on Armed Forces Day to recognize servicemembers and display their state-of-the-art equipment.

Sharing these Armed Forces Day facts is a small way for Villanova University to highlight the achievements of the members of our military. We would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to all of the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country every day.

The question many people face is this: Am I better off going to college and then joining the military, or enlisting first and then enrolling in college?

Neither option is “wrong,” as both provide a pathway to future success. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of each option to help you choose the path that is best for your unique situation.

College Before Military Service

Going to college is the route most high school graduates take, at least initially. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in October 2019, 66.2% of high school graduates between the age of 16 and 24 were enrolled in a college or university.

Going to college provides high school graduates with the traditional, coming-of-age college experience. For those considering the military, it also offers the chance to think about the military option longer.

Other advantages of going to college before joining the military including the following:

• With a college degree, you may be eligible to enlist in the military as an officer. According to the U.S. Army, a bachelor’s degree is needed to become a commissioned officer and a master’s degree is needed for those who want to rise to the rank of captain and above.
• You may have a higher chance of being promoted. As noted by the U.S. Navy, officers tend to be highly educated and experienced, hold college degrees and rise to the leadership and management teams. 
• You may qualify for the College Loan Repayment Program (CLRP). It’s important to check each military branch as they have differing rules. In the Army, for example, the CLRP program is available for “highly qualified applicants entering the Army.” The Army will repay 33.3% of outstanding loan amounts each year of service, up to $65,000 in total. Individuals must agree to three years of service and decline enrollment in the Montgomery GI Bill®, among other criteria.
• You may find it easier to transition into the military after gaining more life experience in college, rather than the other way around.

One disadvantage of attending college before joining the military is that you may not qualify for the typical military tuition reimbursement package that individuals receive when they join the military first and then attend college. This means tuition, room and board, books, fees, meal plans and other expenses may initially come from your pocket. You also may have to take out student loans, something that 69% of young adults did in 2019.

Enrolling in College After Enlistment

For those who enter the military before attending college, one advantage is that you may be eligible for military benefits that pay for education both during and after your time of service. The Post-9/11 GI Bill® is one option that provides military servicemembers and veterans with educational benefits that can help make it easier to pay for college.

Other benefits from enlisting in the military before going to college include the following:

• Some of your military training could qualify for college credit as determined by the American College on Education (ACE)*. As of 2019, Villanova University’s College of Professional Studies accepts a maximum of 15 ACE credits from a Joint Military Transcript.
• Joining the military early in life means you may be able to retire earlier. According to U.S. News & World Report, those who serve for at least 20 years can typically collect retirement pay. Conceivably, those who enlist at 17 or 18 could retire before 40 and collect military benefits, and still be young enough to pursue a second career.

One of the disadvantages of entering the military before college is that you may start at the bottom in both rank and pay grade. Also, if you take classes while still serving, it might prove challenging to balance school with service requirements. 

What About ROTC?

The Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) is also an option to consider. If you join ROTC, the military pays for your college education if you commit to join the service. You’ll receive training in military skills and leadership development, as well as academic study. Courses are held in traditional classrooms and in the field. When you complete the program, you may qualify to enter the military as an officer. ROTC programs are available at hundreds of colleges and universities across the country.

Is it Better to go to College First or Enlist in the Military First?

Either choice is valid and has its advantages. Enlisting in the military first means gaining the opportunity to retire earlier, have college paid for and potentially avoiding student loans. On the other hand, graduating from college first and then enlisting may allow you to start off at a higher rank and pay grade, with more opportunities for leadership roles.

Regardless of whether you choose the military or college first, it’s important to stay true to yourself and make the choice that best suits your goals, ambition and personality. 

*Students wishing to earn ACE credit will be required to take a proctored exam for each course. Universities may or may not accept the ACE credits for certificate classes. The fact that a university will accept ACE credit is not a guarantee that any given school is going to accept the credit in transfer. ACE-approved coursework must be evaluated by the registrar at the specific university before it will be accepted for transfer.

GI Bill^® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.