Updated by SpouseLink March 28, 2022
Original story written by Nelma Lumme
Guest Blogger
Getting a college education is a high priority for a lot of people in the United States, but many individuals are searching for a way to get their education alongside serving their country in the military. Knowing some of the best senior military colleges in the country can help ensure you get the education you deserve without putting aside your dreams of military service.
The U.S. is considered a top country when it comes to great senior military colleges, and there are also a lot of scholarships you can find for military families to make education easier. Many college options are offering high-quality education and a chance for army service upon graduation. If you’re looking for a list of senior military colleges ranked or if you’re wondering which military college in the U.S. is right for you, read on for some great options!
1. The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina
While everyone’s list of senior military colleges may be a little different depending on preferences and goals, the Citadel is widely regarded as one of the best when it comes to army preparation and military education. The school offers a mix of civilian and army programs that cater to different types of personalities, allowing both civilians and army personnel to enroll in their programs.
The daily regimen consists of standardized leadership training, military physical training as well as academic studies that cover theoretical knowledge. Their Corps of Cadets program is arguably the best army preparation program in the U.S., allowing students to experience army life combined with academic endeavors all in one place.
2. Norwich University, the Military College of Vermont
If you’re looking for the best senior military college, you can’t ignore Norwich, which is one of the oldest and most successful in the whole country. The school was founded in the early 19th century in hopes of delivering an effective military preparation regiment combined with liberal arts studies that ensure quality education for all cadets.
The results are substantial. Students get to choose from 29 majors within six academic divisions, some of which cater to civilians while others are targeted at future military personnel. This private senior military college is a good choice for people who want to dedicate the same amount of attention towards training and formal education all while preparing to join the army upon graduation.
3. U.S. Air Force Academy
Even as one of the youngest military academies in the U.S., USAFA is one of the highest-ranked senior military colleges. While their student enrollment passed well into 4,000, their acceptance rate never goes above 15%. This gives you a clear indication of how dedicated they are to quality and discipline for their students.
With such high standards for acceptance and curriculum, academic essay writing is rarely possible given the strict training and studying regimen. Their Cadet Wing program is reserved for the most prestigious and ambitious students on the campus who often become top stars in the U.S. Air Force upon graduation.
4. West Point – the U.S. Military Academy
With a simple yet profound motto “Duty, Honor, Country,” West Point made a name for itself as one of the top senior military colleges in the U.S. It could very well be the best senior military college for you. The school curriculum focuses on educating officers for the U.S. Army, with very little emphasis on standardized ground personnel that otherwise makes up the bulk of the army.
This allows them an opportunity to change the way they educate officers, with a strong emphasis on character and leadership development. West Point also emphasizes one-on-one studying and consultation with the school board, giving every cadet a chance to shine when the time is right.
5. Annapolis – U.S. Naval Academy
If you’re looking for the best senior military college for the Naval Academy, you can’t overlook this one. As the second oldest military academy in the U.S. — founded just after West Point — the U.S. Naval Academy is the best possible choice for young and aspiring cadets wanting to serve their country’s naval force.
Their three academic divisions cater to different army categories and give potential recruits a plethora of majors to choose from in each. Annapolis’s engineering division is consistently ranked as the number one engineering studies institution in the US, which provides students with an extra incentive to give the academy some serious thought.
Deciding to attend a military academy usually means you are ready and able to serve your country as military personnel as soon as you graduate. All military colleges are unique, target different branches, and offer different skills and coursework. Choose your path carefully to ensure you find the best senior military college for you.
About Nelma Lumme
Nelma is freelance content writer. Originally from Finland, she now lives in Chicago, IL. Nelma studied sociology at the University of Tampere, and after her graduation, she worked as HR manager at the textile company. Now she helps people with career questions, providing useful tips for recruiters and employees through her articles. Her topics of interest cover mostly psychology, career development, self-improvement and relationships. You can follow Nelma on Twitter and Facebook.
