Short Online Learning Programs at Military-Friendly Schools
If you are transitioning out of the military and back to civilian life and want to get tech industry credentials in a short amount of time, there are a variety of options waiting for you.
There are short-duration, military-friendly online tech certification programs that maximize credit for prior service while offering classes on accelerated schedules. Institutions of higher learning like Purdue Global and National University lead this category by integrating military training into degree requirements.
All information below is current as of press time, but plans, programs, and financial aid options are subject to change. Check with your chosen school for the most current information.
Short Online Learning Programs at Military-Friendly Schools
Purdue Global offers an Associate of Applied Science in Small Group Management. This program, at press time, requires only five courses for those with relevant military experience. The university evaluates your Joint Services Transcripts to award credit for leadership and technical training received during active duty, which potentially lowers the time to graduation.
National University has a unique four-week course structure. Students focus on one subject at a time. This intensity allows for faster completion compared to traditional sixteen-week semesters. The university accepts transfer credits for military occupations and training.
Short-Term Technical Certificates
Training Camp offers Information Technology bootcamps that last 5 to 10 days, covering subjects such as network administration and cybersecurity. Veterans can use their GI Bill benefits to cover the costs of these intensive certifications while earning them quickly, but they may also find help from state or local agencies offering scholarships for tech, STEM, or related fields.
SkillStorm operates nine-week technology certification pathways. These online programs focus on in-demand skills, including software development and cloud architecture. SkillStorm works in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide these opportunities.
Academic Leadership Certificates
Syracuse University offers a 15-credit online certificate in Creative Leadership, designed for military-connected students seeking to enhance management skills. This shorter credential can stand alone or serve as a stepping stone toward a full bachelor’s degree.
The University of Maryland Global Campus provides various undergraduate and graduate certificates and some of these are made of only four to six courses. Students can complete these in less than 1 year. The certificates focus on specialized fields like human resources, project management, and homeland security.
Professional Development Resources
Military OneSource offers free self-directed online professional development courses, which do not lead to a degree but provide professional development. Topics include financial management, transition assistance, and soft skills training.
Modern States provides the “Freshman Year for Free” program. This initiative offers free online courses that prepare students for College Level Examination Program tests, allowing test takers to earn college credit without attending a full semester of classes.
