will the military pay for a phd

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Getting a PhD while you're in the Army

Many people join the armed forces as a stepping stone to obtaining a college degree with the help of the G.I. Bill. While this is an excellent way to get the financial assistance you need to pursue your dreams of a higher education, sometimes a Bachelor's Degree isn't enough.

To assist soldiers with long-term academic goals, in 2012 the School of Advanced Military Studies developed a program that combines a professional army education program and a doctoral degree. Located in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, the School created the Advanced Strategic Planning and Policy Program, or ASP3, that lets military officers study history, strategic theory and planning. Although there are only 60 officers currently participating in the program, there's plenty of room to grow.

Why should you get a PhD?

In the past, a Bachelor's Degree would give you a competitive edge in the job market once you transition into civilian life. In some cases, even other post-graduate programs like an MBA or a Master's degree won't suffice in the modern job market.

Obtaining a PhD with the ASP3 allows you to not only further your educational pursuits, but it also provides a pathway to development from a field-grade officer to a strategic planner and future senior military leader.

Not only does a doctorate give you a solid educational foundation and support for your future experiences, it also gives you a personal sense of accomplishment. This is especially true for people who enjoy surmounting challenging situations and for those who truly enjoy the learning-teaching process.

A PhD program is also a great route if you're interested in innovating and inventing new concepts, processes and fields of study. 

"The ASP3 program is a promising career path for bright officers."

How do you know if you should get a PhD?

While earning a PhD will certainly help you obtain a higher-paying job, it isn't a path for everyone.

You'll be required to conduct countless hours of research and write a comprehensive thesis. However, if you have the ambition and the commitment, the program is a promising career path for bright officers who want to progress to the next level of leadership and still hold a command position.

Speaking with the U.S. Department of Defense's new teams, Army Col. Oscar Doward Jr., commander of the U.S. Army Central's 2503rd Digital Liaison Detachment, explained his reasoning for pursuing a PhD at the School of Advanced Military Studies.

"Applying for the program was an opportunity for me to earn a [doctorate], a desire I've always had," said Doward. "I also saw it as a great opportunity to have an effect on the strategic policy level."

Currently, Doward is writing his dissertation on "African-American officer development and evolution in the Army during the 20th century, focusing on the period between World War I and the Korean War." 

Although juggling your military and academic responsibilities can be difficult, it opens the door to a number of great opportunities. But by taking a good look at where you want to be in five or six years time you can draft a plan of action that puts you on a route to getting your PhD while you're in the armed forces.

Guide to Military Education Benefits for Graduate Students

Many hope that when they leave the military for civilian life, there is a perfectly mapped out plan showing them what to do next. Unfortunately, this is not the reality. You often face several questions that are crucial to understanding what your transition to civilian life will look like. Should you reenter the workforce right away? Which professions match up with your skills? Does it make sense to go back to school and earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree?

From choosing a career path to exploring your educational options, the way forward is filled with challenging decisions that could have a big impact on your future. Learning about the military education benefits available to you can help you make the right choices that serve your personal and professional goals.

What military benefits are available for graduate students?

As an active or retired servicemember, the veteran educational benefits you qualify for often depend on the following factors: your length and period of service, educational program, type of enrollment, and the military branch in which you served. You should also be aware that, in most cases, you can’t qualify for multiple programs using the same service period, but reenlisting will increase your options.

If you’re interested in attending grad school, here are several VA programs that can help you pursue a master’s degree.

Post-9/11 GI Bill Ⓡ

The Post-9/11 GI Bill grants funding for postsecondary education or job training to veterans who served at least 90 days on active duty after September 11, 2001. Benefits can go toward tuition, fees, books, and housing, as well as moving costs for eligible rural students who have to relocate for school.

Others who qualify for these benefits include:

• Veterans who were honorably discharged with a Purple Heart after 9/11
• Veterans who were honorably discharged due to a service-related disability and completed at least 30 continuous days of active duty after 9/11
• Army Reserve members who are eligible to restore benefits from the defunct Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)

Montgomery GI Bill for Active Duty and Veterans

The Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD) program is an educational benefit for servicemembers who have completed at least two years of active duty. The benefits cover a variety of educational goals, including graduate degrees, licensure and certification exams, on-the-job training, and high-cost tech courses. For veterans, these benefits typically expire 10 years after their active-duty service ends.

This bill has four qualification categories, which are largely dependent on your service length and the specific years in which you served. In all categories, you must have a diploma, GED, or 12 credit hours from a college program to be eligible.

Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserves

The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) program provides benefits to people serving a six-year obligation. You must be a member of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army National Guard, Air National Guard, or Coast Guard Reserve to initially qualify. Compensation includes up to $466 per month for 36 months.

Veteran Readiness and Employment program

If you have a disability due to active-duty service—or your condition worsened—you may qualify to receive assistance in training for or obtaining a civilian job. The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program provides a variety of tailored services to help disabled servicemembers achieve their career goals and live as independently as possible.

Depending on your individual needs, this could include career counseling, internships, postsecondary education, medical counseling, on-the-job accommodations, or independent living services.

Loan repayment

The Military College Loan Repayment Program (CLRP) provides annual repayment funds to active servicemembers who satisfy a specific service period. Some form of CLRP is available in most branches of the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines.

Servicemembers who agree to a three-year service period are eligible for up to $65,000 in repayment funds for federal loans, as long as their graduate program is in a qualifying Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). Each year, the program covers $1,500 or 33.3% of the principal balance—whichever is greater. To qualify, you must be enlisting for the first time or reenlisting after fully completing your previous active-duty service.

Keep in mind that you’re typically required to enroll when you initially sign your service contract. Additionally, if you decide to use the loan repayment funds, you’ll most likely need to submit forms forfeiting your eligibility for other military education aid, such as GI Bill benefits.

Tuition Assistance Top-Up program

If you qualify for MGIB-AD or the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and the Tuition Assistance (TA) program doesn’t fully cover your course fees, the “Top-Up” program may be able to help you pay the remaining costs. Tuition Assistance Top-Up benefits can make up the difference between the tuition cost and your Department of Defense (DoD) payments for up to 36 months of enrollment.

Work-study program

The veterans’ work-study program is open to applicants attending school through a VA education benefits program. You must have at least a three-quarter-time enrollment and either find a VA-related job at your school or work at a VA facility (e.g., state agencies, local branches of the armed forces, and Veteran Affairs departments in colleges).

Tutorial assistance program

For veterans who are struggling with difficult coursework, help is available. Tutorial assistance benefits allow you to receive up to $100 per month and $1,200 total to hire a tutor. To qualify, you must be enrolled at least half-time, and the course you need assistance with must be a required course for your program. The instructor must also approve your need for a tutor, so it’s important to be open about any challenges you’re facing if you hope to receive aid.

Military Benefit FAQs

Although the number of benefits available to you can be encouraging, there are several nuances with each that can be difficult to navigate. Here are a few common questions you may have about these different programs.

How many days do I have to serve to receive GI Bill benefits?

To qualify for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, you must serve for at least 90 days after September 11, 2001. Veterans who are disabled due to their time in service and honorably discharged are eligible for benefits after serving 30 continuous days. Veterans who received a Purple Heart can qualify after any period of service.

Are spouses/dependents eligible for the GI Bill?

Eligible servicemembers have the option to transfer some or all Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to aid a spouse or dependent attending school. Transfers are available to active servicemembers or reserve members who served six years and have agreed to enlist for four more years. If you’re the relative of a veteran, here are other options to consider for funding your education.

• Fry Scholarship: The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship is available to children or spouses of veterans who died in service after 9/11. This scholarship is also open to the families of Selected Reserve members who died from a service-related disability.
• Spouse and Dependents Education Assistance: The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance program (DEA) provides benefits to spouses and children of servicemembers who are deceased, disabled, missing, or captured. Children between the ages of 18 and 26 qualify for this assistance, while spouses have 10 years to use the benefits once eligibility is granted.

What housing benefits does the GI Bill provide?

Veterans who are enrolled in school more than half-time may qualify for a monthly housing allowance under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The amount you receive largely depends on the cost of living where you plan to attend school. If you take online classes, your housing allowance will be 50% of the national average. Your benefit tier also plays a role in the maximum stipend you can receive, based on the amount of active duty you have served once you begin attending school.

How long do you have to be in the military to receive benefits?

For active-duty servicemembers who are not disabled, the earliest you can receive veterans education benefits is 90 days under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. If you plan on applying for VA education benefits such as loan repayment, there could be a one-year waiting period before reimbursements begin.

In many programs, you will need to serve several years of active duty or complete your service before satisfying eligibility requirements. Therefore, it’s important to speak with a VA benefits advisor about any programs you’re considering.

Do you get free college if you join the military?

The GI Bill is designed to cover 100% of the tuition cost of public, in-state colleges, but there are several factors that affect your benefit amount. Servicemembers who are not discharged due to disability must serve for 36 months to receive the maximum benefit. If you serve for a period of at least 90 days, but less than 36 months, your benefits will be prorated accordingly. For example, you are eligible to receive 40% of the benefit for serving six months or less, 70% for serving 18 to 24 months, and 90% for serving at least 30 months. Since average educational costs vary annually, the exact dollar amount of educational benefits can change from year to year.

Does the GI Bill cover private schools?

The GI Bill can cover tuition at a private institution, but the amount is always capped. As of 2023, the yearly tuition benefit for private schools is $27,120.05. The cap rates for benefits are published each year, so make sure you have the most up-to-date information when planning your graduate education.

How much does the GI Bill pay for a master’s degree?

The type of degree you’re pursuing doesn’t affect the amount of military education benefits you can receive. Whether you are obtaining a graduate or an undergraduate degree, you’re eligible for the same amount of aid—$227,120.05 per year.

However, your benefit allotments will be reduced accordingly if you have already used a portion for past education. If you want to qualify for more benefits to cover a larger cost of your graduate education, you will need to reenlist and complete the qualifications requirements for your intended program.

Does the GI Bill cover me if I’m retired from active duty?

Retired veterans don’t automatically lose their eligibility for Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. However, your benefits will expire in 15 years if you completed your service before January 1, 2013. Currently, your benefits won’t expire if your last separation date from military service is after January 1, 2013.

Take the next step toward a civilian career.

The transition to civilian life can be a difficult one, but there are many options available to you in furthering your education. By answering the questions above, and the extensive list of veteran-specific education benefits, you should have a better idea of what program and aid best aligns with your career aspirations.

To learn more, explore Northeastern University’s military-friendly programs or contact Andy McCarty , director of the Dolce Center for the Advancement of Veterans and Servicemembers at Northeastern, for assistance with your VA education benefits.

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 .

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Military Tuition Benefits for Doctoral Students

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Don’t pay more than you should for a doctoral degree.

Whether your next phase of leadership is military or civilian, more people should benefit from your experience. So at Liberty University, you’ll find more than one way to reach the pinnacle of your profession — for less.

Two simple pathways for military students:

Already have a graduate degree from Liberty?

• Start your doctoral degree within two years of graduation.
• Pay only $300 per credit hour .

Don’t have a graduate degree from Liberty?

• Start with one of our 21-hour Executive Certificates — available at $300/credit hour .
• Roll those credits into a corresponding doctoral program and continue to pay only $300/credit hour for the rest of your courses.
• Interested in a doctoral program in a different subject? No problem! Just start within 2 years of completing the Executive Certificate and still keep the $300/credit hour rate.

You understand the value of proper training. So do we. Lead your field with the degree you need — at a price you’ve earned. We’re grateful for your service.

Please note:

• The $300/credit hour discounted tuition rate is only available to active service members, eligible veterans, and spouses who are new to a doctoral program in Fall 2020 or after.
• Department of Defense employees are not eligible for the $300/hour tuition rate at the doctoral level.
• Qualifying   military students who confer a master’s degree, executive certificate, postgraduate degree, or doctorate from Liberty University and pursue a doctoral program with Liberty within 2 years of their degree conferral date are eligible for the $300/credit hour doctoral military tuition discount. Please see   additional benefits   for more details on exceptions.
• The $300/credit hour doctoral military rate cannot be combined with the First Responder Discount.
• The Post-BSN DNP-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Post-MSN DNP-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and Postgraduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner are excluded from the discounted military rate.

Nest your certificate credits into one of our doctoral degree programs.

These 21-hour certificates can stand on their own as professional development credentials or lay the groundwork for a full doctoral   degree. All courses are nested into our doctoral degree programs.

Executive Certificates

You can earn postgraduate credits as part of a 21-hour certificate program. These certificates can help you gain advanced standing in one of our   doctoral programs   when you’re ready.

• Executive Certificate in Bible Exposition (Ph.D. in Bible Exposition)
• Executive Certificate in Business Administration (DBA)
• Executive Certificate in Christian Leadership (Ph.D. in Christian Leadership)
• Executive Certificate in Clinical Leadership (DNP)
• Executive Certificate in Communication (Ph.D. in Communication)
• Executive Certificate in Criminal Justice (Ph.D. in Criminal Justice)
• Executive Certificate in Curriculum and Instruction (Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction and Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction) –  exclusively priced at $275/credit hour*
• Executive Certificate in Higher Education Administration (Ed.S. in Higher Education Administration and Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration: Educational Leadership) –  exclusively priced at $275/credit hour*
• Executive Certificate in History (Ph.D. in History)
• Executive Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology (Ph.D. in Education: Instructional Design and Technology)
• Executive Certificate in Law and Policy (DLP)
• Executive Certificate in Nursing Educational Leadership (Ph.D. in Nursing: Nursing Education)
• Executive Certificate in Psychology (Ph.D. in Psychology)
• Executive Certificate in Public Administration (DPA)
• Executive Certificate in Public Policy (Ph.D. in Public Policy)
• Executive Certificate in School Administration and Supervision (Ed.S. in Administration and Supervision: Educational Leadership and Ed.D. in Administration and Supervision: Educational Leadership) –  exclusively priced at $275/credit hour*
• Executive Certificate in Special Education (Ph.D. in Education: Special Education)
• Executive Certificate in Strategic Leadership (DSL)
• Postgraduate Certificate in Chaplaincy (D.Min. in Chaplaincy) – only 9 credit hours

*In order to retain the $275/credit hour rate, the corresponding doctoral degree must be started within 2 years of completing the Executive Certificate. Transfer of credits into other non-corresponding doctoral degrees does not guarantee the $275 rate.

Additional Benefits for Doctoral Military Students

Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) – Pastoral Counseling

Our D.Min. in Pastoral Counseling is offered at just   $275/credit hour   for   qualifying   service members. With this program, you are not required to complete another degree with Liberty to receive the discounted tuition rate.

Additionally, qualifying service members pursuing our D.Min. in Pastoral Counseling will receive a block rate of just $1,925 a semester when taking 7-15 credits in a single semester – less than   $130/credit hour   when taking 15 credits!

Education Specialist (Ed.S.) and Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Our Ed.S. and Ed.D. programs are offered at a discounted rate of  $275/credit hour  for  qualifying  service members. With these programs, you are not required to complete another degree with Liberty to receive the discounted tuition rate!

John W. Rawlings School of Divinity Doctoral Programs

Qualifying  service members will receive a block rate of just $2,700 a semester when pursuing a doctoral divinity degree and taking 7-15 credits in a single semester. This is only  $180/credit hour  when taking 15 credits!

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Everything you need to know about tuition assistance, by service

Did you know that you can earn a degree in the military without spending a penny of your own money and without using up any of your GI Bill benefits?

Through a benefit called tuition assistance, or TA, active-duty service members can take classes in pursuit of a college degree on the military’s dime.

TA covers $250 per semester hour, with a yearly cap, but each service can set its own requirements, and some rules vary.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rules governing TA, as well as some tips for getting the most out of the benefit.

TA usage limits:

• Up to $4,000 per year
• Up to 130 semester hours toward an undergraduate degree
• Up to 39 semester hours toward a graduate degree
• Up to 21 semester hours toward a certificate

As a first step, soldiers should establish a GoArmyEd account – even if they aren’t quite ready to start school – according to Pamela Raymer, chief of the Army Continuing Education System under Human Resources Command.

This account will give them access to an interactive tool with information about the careers they can pursue, the income they can expect from those careers, the degrees that support those careers and the colleges that offer those degrees, she said. Schools must be registered with GoArmyEd and accredited by agencies recognized by the Education Department to be included.

Recently, the Army ended a policy that required soldiers to delay using TA for one year from the time they complete Advanced Individual Training, for enlisted troops, or the initial Basic Officer Leader Course, for officers. This rule-change opened up the benefit to nearly 95,000 additional soldiers, Raymer said. The Army also recently waived a rule that required troops who used TA to earn a bachelor’s degree to wait 10 years before using the benefit toward a master’s. Service members must complete advanced-level military training for that rule to be waived.

As TA use drops, could recent policy changes get more service members using the education benefit?

Soldiers can also receive college credit based on their military training, Raymer said, although each school decides for itself which credits it will accept. It takes soldiers an average of five years to complete an undergraduate degree and another five to finish a graduate degree, she said.

“Don't wait. Get started now,” Raymer said. “Use your military training to jump start that degree. Education is something no one can take away from you.”

• Up to $4,500 per year
• No semester-hour limits

In June, the Navy rescinded its previous cap of 16 semester hours of TA per year, while bumping up the annual dollar limit from $4,000 to $4,500. This gave sailors “more control and flexibility in their pursuit of higher education,” according to a NavAdmin issued in May. The Navy has also instituted an automated approval process for TA requests and has begun allowing sailors to use the benefit toward certificates.

“With the new TA changes — $4,500 cap and no credit hour limits — TA dollars can go a long way, especially considering that some schools charge less than $50 per semester hour,” said Ernest D’Antonio, director of Navy Voluntary Education.

D’Antonio told Military Times that sailors should contact the Navy College Virtual Education Center or OCONUS Navy College Office to discuss their education goals before applying to college.

“Make sure you have the full support of your command and your family before using TA,” he said. “If a sailor's operational tempo or responsibilities at home won't allow them to prepare properly for their classes, the end result could be wasted money due to mandatory payback for earning bad grades.”

More information for sailors interested in learning more about TA can be found at https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/ .

• Up to 124 semester hours toward an undergraduate degree
• Up to 42 semester hours toward a graduate degree

Airmen considering TA should consult with their base-level education counselor to identify career interests and come up with a plan of action, said Capt. Carrie Volpe, a spokeswoman for the Secretary of the Air Force.

“Execute the plan of action, stay committed, and utilize your maximum yearly tuition assistance benefits,” she said.

Ask the Experts: Education can boost your annual pay by $17,000

Volpe also recommends exploring college programs that maximize academic credit for the knowledge and skills airmen already have. Some schools participate in the Air University Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative Program, she said. That program guarantees that graduates of the Community College of the Air Force will not be required to take more than 60 semester hours to complete a bachelor’s degree, “thus minimizing the amount of (TA) and the time needed to complete a baccalaureate degree.”

Airmen who log into the Air Force Virtual Education Center can review their education record and find additional information about TA, Community College of the Air Force, the Career Skills Program and more.

Marine Corps

• Up to two courses per semester

The Marine Corps also recently changed its TA requirements to let Marines use the benefit earlier in their careers.

Marines who have been in the service for 18 months and “demonstrate significant extraordinary effort beyond the fulfillment of all assignments and normal expectations” can use TA, at an O-5 level commander’s discretion, under the latest policy released in May. The previous policy required Marines to wait two years.

Jim Gallisdorfer, strategic communications manager for the Future Operations Branch of Marine and Family Programs, said before Marines apply for TA, they should review the MARADMIN 255/18 for more details on the benefit, such as grade-point average requirements. They should also meet with education staff at their respective installations.

Marines also need to complete two courses before signing up for TA. One is Higher Education Preparation, available at no cost on Joint Knowledge Online , Gallisdorfer said. The other is Personal Financial Management, available on MarineNet .

“Higher education is expensive, so understanding the financial management principles provided in this course is critical,” he said.

One other way Marines can set themselves up for success is by taking the Test of Adult Basic Education, or TABE, Gallisdorfer said, especially if their general technical scores were low on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test Test prep resources are available through the Marine Corps Community Services Libraries .

Coast Guard

• Up to $2,250 per year
• Up to 40 semester hours toward a graduate degree

“The ultimate goal for using tuition assistance is the obtainment of a degree,” said Public Affairs Officer Lisa Novak. “Establishing educational goals will help members identify their field of study, narrow down school selection, and, equally important, create a plan for completing their degree.”

You should take cost into account. Programs that charge above the $250-per-semester-hour cap could result in out-of-pocket tuition expenses for the service member.

“Maximizing the usage of tuition assistance requires consideration of a school not only based on accreditation and reputation, but also financial advantage,” Novak said. “Considering financial advantage as an additional criterion for school selection may be the difference between the tuition assistance benefit funding three courses or four.”

Coast Guard members should also take advantage of credit-by-exam options, tests that measure college-level readiness and allow service members to earn college credit. These tests “reduce the amount of time it takes to complete your degree, and, most important, reduce the overall costs associated with completing your degree,” Novak said. And when taken at approved testing sites, these exams are offered at no cost.

Military Times contributor and former reporter Natalie Gross hosts the Spouse Angle podcast. She grew up in a military family and has a master's degree in journalism from Georgetown University.

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•       Resources       ROTC as a Graduate Student

ROTC as a Graduate Student

The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) prepares college students for careers as military officers. Dating back to 1916, when it was founded as part of the National Defense Act, today's ROTC program combines academic education with military training. ROTC cadets earn a degree while completing additional military science training. After completing the program, graduates join the military as officers and take on leadership roles in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or other armed service branches.

Grad student ROTC recipients can use the program to pay for a master's degree. ROTC programs provide full tuition and a book allowance for grad students, along with a monthly stipend. During grad school, ROTC cadets complete the same coursework requirements as other students, with additional military training requirements. After graduation, master's students can join the military as officers, typically for a four-year service agreement. When recipients fulfill the service requirement they can transition to civilian jobs in the same field as their master's degree.

This guide covers ROTC in grad school, including requirements and benefits. It also explains the difference between ROTC and officer candidate school and provides information about additional ROTC scholarships.

Is ROTC in Graduate School Right for Me?

ROTC offers several benefits for graduate students. First, students who use ROTC programs to earn a master's degree receive 100% tuition coverage and a stipend while in grad school. Second, ROTC offers leadership training and a career path after graduation. Grad students who use the ROTC two-year scholarship commit to four years of military service after graduation. During this enlistment, ROTC grad students build leadership and technical skills as an officer, and after military service, they can transition into civilian jobs in the business, government, or elsewhere.

Many students believe ROTC only funds undergraduate degrees; however, 32% of ROTC recipients earn graduate degrees . Students who join ROTC for graduate school complete military science prerequisites the summer before beginning their master's program. During a month-long program, ROTC grad students complete the 100-level and 200-level military training ROTC undergrads complete. Students who join ROTC in college can extend their scholarship to cover graduate school if they have not received four years of scholarship funding.

Prospective ROTC grad students must be committed and disciplined because the program adds requirements on top of regular master's degree coursework.

ROTC vs. Officer Candidate School

Both grad student ROTC recipients and cadets at officer candidate school train to become officers; however, the process differs, as do the outcomes after completing the program.

Officer candidate school shares similarities with military grad school programs, providing advanced training in military science. But unlike ROTC for grad school, officer candidate school does not grant a degree. Officer candidate school offers a quick route to advanced military roles, with most branches requiring three months to complete the program. A master's degree, by contrast, often takes two years.

While both programs prepare students for officer responsibilities, ROTC programs also include graduate-level coursework in nonmilitary fields, such as business. For example, ROTC grad students can earn an MBA, which leads to private sector career opportunities after leaving military service. ROTC cadets still complete military training and military science coursework like cadets at officer candidate school, while also earning a master's degree.

Timeline for ROTC Graduate Students

Grad student ROTC recipients complete their degree on the same timeline as other students. Most master's programs require two years of full-time study; ROTC grad students complete the same coursework requirements as other students in their cohort. However, ROTC does add additional requirements. Most programs include a leadership training course, which grad students complete the summer before starting their master's program. The program, which takes several weeks, provides foundational training for future officers. During the course, ROTC members learn about military tactics and study military leadership. They also complete prerequisite ROTC courses in military science.

ROTC grad students who have already completed military training as an undergraduate or enlisted soldier may be able to waive the training program. For example, students who have attended basic training have already met the military science prerequisites.

ROTC programs do place some restrictions on graduate students. For example, recipients must meet age requirements. The Army ROTC only accepts students who will be age 30 or younger the year they graduate and become an officer. Prospective ROTC grad students over that age can apply for an age waiver. As well, recipients must meet academic standards. ROTC programs look for candidates who possess strong academic, physical, and leadership qualities. Unlike other graduate students, ROTC grad students must meet medical qualifications for military service.

Most of the ROTC requirements, like the leadership training course, occur before students begin their graduate program. Once ROTC grad students begin their coursework, they complete the program on the same timeline as other students.

Paying for Graduate School with ROTC and Military Benefits

ROTC programs and military benefits can fully cover grad school. ROTC offers scholarships that provide full tuition plus fees, a book allowance, and a monthly stipend for graduate students. Grad student ROTC benefits will pay for a degree in business, education, STEM, or public policy. These degrees prepare graduates for careers in the military, the government, or the private sector. Recipients agree to a service term after graduation and enlist as officers. ROTC two-year scholarships require a four-year service commitment.

The Army, Navy, and Air Force offer ROTC programs to pay for a master's degree. The requirements vary, with physical fitness requirements, academic standards, and guidelines on eligible institutions and degrees. ROTC or military benefit recipients can often apply for additional scholarships as well. Prospective students can learn more in the military and veteran grad school guide .

Scholarships for ROTC Students in Graduate Programs

ROTC Two-Year Scholarship : Students attending a two-year master's program can use ROTC two-year scholarships. Recipients agree to serve in the Army for four years.

ROTC Three-Year Scholarship : Students considering a three-year master's program can use an ROTC three-year scholarship to fund their education. Recipients commit to four years of service in the Army.

Tillman Scholar Program : With an average award of $10,000, this program supports military veterans and spouses earning a graduate or professional degree on a full-time basis.

CSU-Global U.S. Military Personnel and Family Scholarship : Offered by Colorado State University, the scholarship supports U.S. military personnel and their families while earning a master's degree.

Army ROTC Green to Gold Scholarship : Current enlisted soldiers can earn a master's degree through the Army ROTC Green to Gold program. After earning the degree, graduates become Army officers.

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Military tuition assistance

Service members, veterans, and their families may be able to get help paying for college or training programs. Learn about the benefit programs, including the GI Bill and more.

Military branch scholarship programs

Each branch of the military offers college scholarships to eligible students. They also pay for books and fees and provide stipends. Accepting this scholarship requires you to serve in the military. After college graduation, a graduate will begin a career as a commissioned officer.

ROTC scholarships

The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) is a scholarship program sponsored by the military. High school seniors, current college students, or enlisted service members can apply for an ROTC scholarship.

Learn more about eligibility, participating campuses, and the application process for each branch of the military.

• Air Force ROTC
• Navy and Marine ROTC

Coast Guard College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative

The Coast Guard offers scholarships through the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI). In addition to school fees, the program also pays a housing allowance and salary. Learn how CSPI works, what schools participate in the program, and find a recruiter to apply.

Education benefits for veterans and dependents

Gi bill and other education benefits for veterans.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers the GI Bill, a benefit that helps veterans pay for college or job training. The GI Bill can cover tuition, housing, fees, and books. Learn about the GI Bill and your eligibility .

If you are not eligible for the GI Bill, learn what other veteran education benefits may be available.

Education benefits for family members

Tuition assistance for military spouses and children.

An active duty service member can transfer their GI bill benefits to a spouse or child. Learn the rules to transfer GI bill benefits .

If a veteran dies or is disabled due to military service, their spouse and children may qualify for survivor education benefits. Learn about the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program , including:

• Eligibility
• How to apply

Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant

If your parent died while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, you may qualify for a tuition grant. Learn about the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant to see if you are eligible and how to apply.

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How Veterans Can Finance Graduate School

Written by Veteran.com Team

As Veterans transition out of military service, many decide to pursue a graduate degree. However, this education can be expensive, leading to the question of how Veterans can finance graduate school. Options include:

• Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
• Special programs for service members at universities.
• Job training options.
• Scholarships.
• Federal and private loans.

Let’s break down what those options look like and what they mean to you.

Post-9/11 GI Bill

The  Post-9/11 GI Bill  remains the best financing option for Veterans seeking graduate school. While the GI Bill began with the  Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 , the current Post-9/11 version offers particularly outstanding education benefits for Veterans. Of note, eligible Veterans can receive up to 36 months of the following:

• Tuition and fees : The GI Bill will cover the in-state, public school maximum for graduate school tuition and fees.
• Monthly housing allowance : Besides tuition and fees, the VA will pay eligible Veterans a  cost-of-living-adjusted, tax-free housing stipend  while enrolled in classes. For Veterans with families, this stipend can make a huge difference in the decision to attend graduate school full-time, as it allows you to focus on your education while still knowing you’ll have housing expenses primarily covered.
• Book stipend : Graduate school books are expensive. Fortunately, the GI Bill provides Veterans up to $1,000 in tax-free book stipends to help offset these costs.

Veterans must first confirm their eligibility by applying directly with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to use this benefit. Once the VA confirms eligibility, it will issue Veterans a  Certificate of Eligibility , which outlines the percentage of benefits available and time remaining. Certifying officials at your graduate school of choice can help you navigate applying these benefits to your tuition.

Yellow Ribbon Program

If you’re considering attending a  private graduate school , you likely noticed in the above section that the GI Bill covers the in-state tuition and fees for public schools. Does this mean you’ll need to pay the difference out-of-pocket if you attend a more expensive private school?

Not necessarily.

If you qualify for 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits and your school participates in the  Yellow Ribbon program , you may not need to pay anything. Yellow Ribbon acts as a financing mechanism to bridge the gap between what the GI Bill will cover and the actual cost of tuition for more expensive private graduate schools.

If your target graduate school participates in the program, you can apply directly with the school for one of its Yellow Ribbon spots. Then, the school will pay a certain amount towards your tuition (up to the GI Bill maximum), and the VA will match that amount!

For example, if your graduate school decides to contribute $20,000 in Yellow Ribbon benefits, you’ll receive:

• Your Post-9/11 GI Bill tuition and fees are up to the in-state, public maximum.
• The $20,000 is directly from the school.
• Another $20,000 from the VA matching the school’s Yellow Ribbon contribution.

While the specific graduate school will dictate whether or not these Yellow Ribbon proceeds cover all tuition and fees, they certainly go a long way to offset out-of-pocket costs for private graduate schools.

Note: If you’re interested in a private graduate school, contacting a currently enrolled Veteran is the best option for determining out-of-pocket expenses. Most U.S. graduate schools have some version of a Veterans’ club, and these are great places to find Veteran points of contact.

Veteran Readiness and Employment (formerly “Voc Rehab”)

Formerly known as “Voc Rehab,”  Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)  offers another potential option for Veterans with a service-related disability to finance graduate school. Per the VA, this program aims to assist Veterans with service-connected disabilities in obtaining suitable employment. Some eligible Veterans will qualify for graduate school tuition assistance through VR&E within this mission.

However, it’s important to note that, unlike the GI Bill, VR&E does not guarantee all Veterans education benefits. Instead, for service members with disabilities that limit their ability to work in some capacity, VR&E may provide employment support services, including graduate school tuition.

In other words, VR&E represents more of an “it depends” option for financing graduate school. Each Veteran’s unique situation will determine whether they qualify for graduate school benefits through this program. Fortunately, the VA makes applying for the program reasonably straightforward, meaning you don’t lose anything by applying.

To apply for VR&E benefits and determine whether the program will cover graduate school tuition, take the following steps:

1. Sign in to eBenefits. 2. Select “apply.” 3. Select “Veteran Readiness and Employment Program.” 4. Apply for “Education and Career Counseling.” 5. If deemed eligible, the VA will invite you to an orientation session where you can discuss specific benefit options.

Scholarship Options

Unfortunately, many Veterans decide to use their GI Bill benefits for graduate school and don’t consider pursuing other scholarship options. The thought process goes like this: The GI Bill covers my tuition, so why would I need a scholarship?

Well, during a year or two of graduate school, you will have far more expenses than solely tuition: housing, food, and travel, to name a few. While your GI Bill monthly housing allowance will help with some of these, it may only cover some things. That’s where scholarship dollars you receive beyond tuition and fees can go toward other expenses. Also, many Veterans may not realize that military service puts you in a strong position when applying for scholarships.

“Veterans also need to emphasize the skills that they have acquired from their military service when applying for scholarships and grants,” said Paul Dillon, an adjunct Instructor at the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University . He followed up by listing specific skills every service member is required to learn, and that explaining those skills may separate them from others applying for scholarships. They include:

• Following through with a specific mission.
• Committing to work.
• Adapting to different cultures and customs to be accomplish goals as a team.
• Making difficult decisions quickly in a high-pressure or stressful environment.

Dillon mentioned any service member who is a commissioned officer has an added benefit, “the best leadership training in the world is the training that is given to commissioned officers.” Adding, “The United States Army has more than 200 years of experience in training leaders, and some of us got to test out that training on the battlefields—and carry those lessons with us into our business careers.”

So from a financial perspective, you have nothing to lose applying for scholarships (except the time and effort to apply), but you potentially have thousands of dollars to gain.

Example: If you attend a public graduate school, the GI Bill will cover your tuition and fees. If you also receive a $10,000/year scholarship, you could use that $10,000 for other expenses, as the GI Bill already covers your tuition and fees.

Broadly speaking, graduate school scholarships fall into one of the following two categories:

• School-specific : These are scholarships unique to a particular graduate school. Also, many schools include scholarships solely for Veteran students. Ask your target graduate schools for any such scholarships they may offer.
• Private : These are veteran-specific scholarships provided by private foundations or charities that someone can use at any graduate school. A cursory online search will show you the dozens of private scholarships available to Veterans.

Note:  For tax purposes, Veterans need to understand that any scholarship funds received beyond qualified education expenses qualify as taxable income.

Federal Student Loans

If, after looking at all of the above options, financing your graduate school program still seems out of reach, you can take out federal student loans .

For graduate school students, your primary federal loan option will be federal direct unsubsidized loans (as opposed to subsidized loans, which have slightly better terms but are only available to undergraduate students).

According to Federal Student Aid (an office of the US Department of Education), direct unsubsidized loans are available to graduate students, and you are not required to demonstrate financial need.Your graduate program will determine the amount you can borrow based on the cost of attendance and any other financial aid you receive. 

Private Student Loans

Veterans can consider private student loans to finance graduate school as a final option. Private, income-driven student loans may be a good option if you’re still determining what you want to do after graduate school (and therefore can’t accurately forecast future earnings).

With these loans, lenders put a ceiling on repayments between 10% and 20% of your discretionary income. Put simply, instead of needing to pay a set amount every month, your payments will be based on how much money you’re making, which provides far more financial flexibility.

Future Earnings? We’ve intentionally made this section heading a question.

Statistically speaking, a Veteran with a graduate degree will make more money than one without a graduate degree. As such, many Veterans (and people, in general) rationalize going into debt for expensive degrees by looking to future increases in income.

But don’t you have better uses for this future income than paying graduate school tuition?

Bottom line, rather than justifying massive student loans to finance graduate school with a future increase in earnings, Veterans are better off A) pursuing every benefit and scholarship option above to attend graduate school without going into debt and B) putting their increased earnings to better uses (e.g., investing, buying a home, starting a business, etc.).

Final Thoughts

Transitioning out of military service and graduate school represents an outstanding option for many Veterans. Armed with the above information, you can pursue a plan to finance graduate school that best fits your unique situation and goals.

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We welcome veterans of the US military and active duty service members as valued members of our student body. We have a long history of working with current and former members of the Armed Services and we are committed to helping you achieve your educational and professional goals.

The school participates in a wide variety of programs that offer substantial financial assistance to US active-duty service members, as well as to US veterans and their families.

The US Army's Advanced Civil Schooling (ACS) program provides opportunities for officers to pursue advanced degrees at civilian universities on a fully-funded basis. ACS awards low, medium and high cost quotas. If admitted, Johns Hopkins SAIS will work with candidates on tuition and funding obligations. Note that the two-year Master of Arts cannot be fast-tracked and completed in 18 months but the one-year Master of International Public Policy (MIPP) can be completed in one year. 

ACS-related inquiries are managed by the Admissions Office in Washington DC, at [email protected] .

US Army FAOs at Johns Hopkins SAIS typically pursue the one-year, Master of International Public Policy (MIPP) degree program for experienced professionals. Students may choose to start in the fall or spring semester.  For guidelines on meeting the ACS application timeline, tuition agreements, completion of the DA Form 2125, and other topics pertinent to FAOs, contact Martina Leinz, Director of Executive Education Recruitment and Outreach at  [email protected] . Regardless of deadlines and decision release dates posted on our website, we will expedite applications of ACS candidates to meet the stated deadline for submission of packets to ACS.

GRADSO allows commissioned officers to attend graduate school while serving in the US Army. GRADSO fully funds your attendance at the school of your choice, regardless of cost. Participants essentially take a two-year academic sabbatical while remaining on active duty and retaining all associated pay and benefits. GRADSO-related inquiries are managed by the Admissions Office in Washington DC, at  [email protected] .

The Tuition Assistance (TA) program provides financial assistance for voluntary off-duty education programs in support of a Soldier's professional and personal self-development goals. TA is available for courses that are offered in the classroom or by distance learning and is part of an approved academic degree or certificate program. The courses must be offered by schools that are registered in GoArmyEd, are accredited by accrediting agencies that are recognized by the US Department of Education and are signatories to the current Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding (DOD MOU). Questions?  Request support through SEAM's online form

(PB-GSIP)  (NOTE: CAC or AKO login required to view document.) The program is open to basic branch officers in Operations, Operations Support and Force Sustainment career fields, and the tuition cap is $43,000 per academic year.  PB-GSIP-related inquiries are managed by the Admissions Office in Washington DC, at  [email protected] .

Johns Hopkins SAIS is one of the approved universities for the POL-MIL scholarship program. The PMM program provides US Navy officers a graduate education in strategy and politico-military affairs at leading civilian institutions throughout the United States. Approved officers will be selected for a one-year master's degree program.

Recipients of this scholarship typically pursue the one-year Master of International Public Policy (MIPP) degree for experienced professionals. The two-year PMM and Arthur S. Moreau Program listed in reference (a) are not funded and are unavailable per the annual quota plan. The PMM program is recommended for junior officers (O3-O4) who are completing their division officer or department head tours, but is open to O5 as well. POL-MIL-related inquiries are managed by the Washington DC Office of Admissions,  [email protected] .

Johns Hopkins SAIS is a participant in the Strategic Thinkers program of the US Office of the Secretary of Defense. This highly competitive program selects military officers with at least 10 years of active duty experience for enrollment in the one-year Master of International Public Policy.

LGEP provides naval officers in paygrades 0-2 to 0-5 with a Navy-funded graduate degree opportunity in international relations through a low-residency delivery model at selected regionally accredited partner universities or colleges, including Johns Hopkins SAIS, for enrollment in the 16-month Master of Arts in Global Policy .

The Office of Student Enrollment and Account Management (SEAM) works cross-functionally to provide support with financial aid, students accounts, and registration. Request Support

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Military to Pay for Ph.d?

I'm an upcoming senior in ME, and I'm fairly set on going to graduate school for a Ph.d. next year. While most (if not all?) engineering Ph.d. students are funded, I wanted to see what do you guys have to say about joining the service, and having them pay for it. Any help would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

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Loved Ones Of American Activist Killed By Israel Condemn Military Probe: 'Wholly Inadequate'

Reporter, HuffPost

The loved ones of an American activist who was killed by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank last week have condemned the military’s claim on Tuesday that a sniper “unintentionally” shot the 26-year-old woman, saying they are “deeply offended” at such a suggestion and still want an independent probe of the incident.

The statements both from Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi’s volunteer group and her family in the U.S. came in response to the Israeli military’s preliminary investigation into itself, the results of which were released Tuesday. Israel launched the probe after eyewitness testimony, the United Nations and Turkish and Palestinian officials all said that an Israeli soldier shot the woman in the head on Friday following a weekly protest against illegal Israeli settlement expansions in Beita, a Palestinian village near the West Bank city of Nablus.

The Israeli military said that its preliminary inquiry found it is “highly likely” that Eygi was shot “indirectly and unintentionally” by Israeli fire “which was not aimed at her, but aimed at the key instigator of the riot.” The military also said it “expresses its deepest regret” for killing Eygi and “sent a request to carry out an autopsy,” adding it has launched a criminal investigation.

Official family statement in response to the Israeli military's preliminary inquiry into Ayşenur's death ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/zDD5Gqh68K — IMEU (@theIMEU) September 10, 2024

Eygi’s family said that the result of Israel’s initial probe is “wholly inadequate” and that the activist’s killing while seeking shelter from Israeli violence “cannot be misconstrued as anything except a deliberate, targeted and precise attack by the military against an unarmed civilian.”

“We are deeply offended by the suggestion that her killing by a trained sniper was in any way unintentional,” the family said in their statement. “The disregard shown for human life in the inquiry is appalling.”

Eygi was from Seattle, where as a graduate student she helped organize the campus protest movement at the University of Washington during the nationwide wave of demonstrations against Israel’s offensive in Gaza. Photos circulating after she was killed show her in a graduation gown while wearing the Palestinian keffiyeh.

She was participating in the West Bank demonstration as a volunteer with the pro-Palestinian International Solidarity Movement (ISM), a human rights group that on Tuesday joined Eygi’s family in rejecting the Israeli military’s claim that the killing was unintentional.

ISM entirely rejects the Israeli army's specious claim that a trained sniper shot Aysenur "accidentally" and continues to demand an independent investigation of the Israeli army’s killing of our comrade #AysenurEzgiEygi #FreePalestine #WestBank #IOF pic.twitter.com/0jBUSYM6la — ISM Palestine (@ISMPalestine) September 10, 2024

“The military’s account of the events is blindly based on the accomplices’ version, which completely contradicts the testimonies of multiple eyewitnesses, whom the military did not even contact,” ISM said in a statement. “All eyewitnesses said immediately following the killing that the scene where Ayşenur was killed was completely quiet and that there could have been no excuse to open fire, let alone directly hitting a woman peacefully standing in an olive grove.”

The Palestinian Authority held a funeral Friday in Beita for Eygi, who also held Turkish citizenship. Turkish officials said they are working to repatriate her body so that she can be buried on the Aegean coast, according to her family’s wishes.

“As we mourn the death of our beloved Ayşenur, we reiterate our demand for the U.S. government leaders … to order an independent investigation into the Israeli military’s deliberate targeting and killing of a U.S. Citizen,” the family said in their statement. “Israeli officials must be transparent and release the evidence they compiled, to be reviewed by the family and independent authorities.”

During a news conference Tuesday in London, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Israeli forces’ killing of Eygi was “unprovoked and unjustified” and that the military should “make some fundamental changes in the way that they operate in the West Bank, including changes to their rules of engagement.”

Despite this being the most forceful statement by Blinken against the Israeli military, he notably did not impose nor threaten to impose any sanctions. He also did not call for an independent investigation into Eygi’s killing, nor did he mention similar cases of excessive force by Israel Defense Forces soldiers against Palestinians in Gaza.

“Apparently it was an accident, ricocheted off the ground and just got hit by accident. I’m working that out now,” President Joe Biden told reporters on Tuesday when asked about Eygi.

“The White House has not spoken with us,” Eygi’s partner, Hamid Ali, said in response to the president’s comment. “For four days, we have waited for President Biden to pick up the phone and do the right thing: to call us, offer his condolences and let us know that he is ordering an independent investigation of the killing of Ayşenur.”

Rachel Corrie’s mother reacts to the killing of another U.S. peace activist, Aysenur Eygi. Israeli soldiers killed Rachel and Aysenur while they were volunteering with the International Solidarity Movement. They died standing up for Palestinian rights. pic.twitter.com/RZ2xYa3LWm — AJ+ (@ajplus) September 10, 2024

Eygi is the 18th activist killed by Israeli forces in Beita since 2020, the other 17 have been Palestinians. She is also the second American activist with ISM to be killed by Israel while protesting for Palestinian rights.

In 2003, activist Rachel Corrie was crushed to death by an Israeli armored bulldozer while defending a Palestinian home in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Blinken at the time was one of several U.S. officials who tried to help Corrie’s parents, Cindy and Craig, in the days following her death.

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“Most of the families that I’ve talked to after they’ve had somebody killed like this, what they want to see is that that sort of tragedy does not happen to another family,” Craig Corrie told AJ+ after Eygi’s death. “So I’m not sure that we were ever struggling for anything for Rachel. We were struggling for all the people that came after. And we’ve failed so far.”

From Our Partner

More in world news.

I have a high-stress, high-paying government job that can feel isolating. Here's how I handle it.

• Ebony Grey is an Air Force veteran who works at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.
• She works remotely and participates in therapy and different groups to stay connected to her network.
• She also prioritizes exercise, date nights with her husband, and meditation to maintain balance.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Ebony Grey , a 45-year-old management analyst at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, DC. It's been edited for length and clarity.

I'm a management and senior policy analyst at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in Washington, DC. I have three degrees, including a Ph.D. and a master's certificate in project management and human capital.

My retired Marine father inspired me to pursue a military career from a young age. I joined the Air Force at 17, drawn by the camaraderie, professionalism, and global opportunities it offered.

My career in the Air Force was marked by leadership and resilience

I faced challenges like wartime service in Afghanistan and overcoming domestic violence, sexual trauma, sexism, and racism.

I worked primarily as an intelligence analyst and training manager throughout my service. My military experiences shaped my career and instilled a deep understanding of dedication and the ability to overcome adversity.

After transitioning from military to civilian life in 2012, I worked as a policy analyst and technical writer at Sage Management. In 2014, I joined HUD, where I've advanced IT policy and audit compliance. I earn a six-figure salary, but it's a stressful job.

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The overwhelming stress from leadership demands and the isolation as one of the few female military veterans oftentimes is too much to bear

In my decade at HUD, I've faced significant professional and personal challenges, especially as one of the few women military veterans in a high-stakes government environment. The isolation in this role has been worse since the pandemic. It's tough to find connections and support at work.

To help with this, I attend biweekly therapy sessions and participate on the board for the HUD Veterans Affinity Group and ACT Now Education to network with and mentor veterans and military spouses.

The demands of my role often impact my personal life, affecting my sleep and relationships, with many nights spent sleeping less than three hours. I also faced medical challenges that required surgery, which led to my certification as a 100% disabled veteran in 2023.

I changed to my current position and was granted permission to work remotely from home permanently at the end of 2023. This adjustment has significantly reduced my stress levels and improved my productivity. I love my new role and would've left to pursue a fully remote role if this didn't happen at HUD.

A typical day for me is a mix of strategic oversight and detailed software license management

I work 40 to 50 hours a week. My responsibilities include reviewing IT policies, managing a team of six, and leading the governance of HUD's software management program.

I've faced unnecessary roadblocks to accomplishing my job, like sexism, which I addressed through the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) process. I work around these challenges by building relationships with other program offices within HUD to collaborate and get the work done. Within the HUD Veterans Affinity Group, we established the Women's Group to talk monthly with and support women veterans.

I prioritize my self-care routine and schedule time for relaxation and hobbies to maintain balance. I use my home gym, including a Peloton bike , for stress relief during the workday.

I also practice transcendental meditation to center myself and schedule regular date nights with my husband. These practices are crucial for maintaining my mental and physical health.

My journey highlights the importance of overcoming personal and systemic challenges to pave the way for others in similar positions

I highly encourage professionals seeking a government position to join professional organizations and employee readiness groups for support.

Understanding the value of advocates in navigating a federal career, I co-authored a book titled "A Guide to Unlocking Federal Employment: Identifying & Developing Your Path for Success" to simplify the federal employment process for veterans, military spouses, and prospective government employees.

I've served on multiple board positions within the Veterans Affinity Group, Federally Employed Women, Blacks in Government, African American Federal Executive Association, and Young Government Leaders. These opportunities provided me with a huge network of resources.

If I could give advice to myself 10 years ago, it would be to secure a mentor and build a strong network early. I would also find a stakeholder willing to advocate for me, not be afraid to pivot and leave my organization for better opportunities, and sign up earlier for a leadership development program.

Watch: How 9 gangs and Mafias actually work — from the Crips to the Hells Angels

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Pentagon Chief Says a 6-Month Temporary Budget Bill Will Have Devastating Effects on the Military

WASHINGTON — Passage of a six-month temporary spending bill would have widespread and devastating effects on the Defense Department, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said in a letter to key members of Congress on Sunday.

Austin said that passing a continuing resolution that caps spending at 2024 levels, rather than taking action on the proposed 2025 budget will hurt thousands of defense programs, and damage military recruiting just as it is beginning to recover after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Asking the department to compete with (China), let alone manage conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, while under a lengthy CR, ties our hands behind our back while expecting us to be agile and to accelerate progress,” said Austin in the letter to leaders of the House and Senate appropriations committees.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has teed up a vote this week on a bill that would keep the federal government funded for six more months. The measure aims to garner support from his more conservative GOP members by also requiring states to obtain proof of citizenship , such as a birth certificate or passport, when registering a person to vote.

Congress needs to approve a stop-gap spending bill before the end of the budget year on Sept. 30 to avoid a government shutdown just a few weeks before voters go to the polls and elect the next president .

Austin said the stop-gap measure would cut defense spending by more than $6 billion compared to the 2025 spending proposal. And it would take money from key new priorities while overfunding programs that no longer need it.

Under a continuing resolution, new projects or programs can't be started. Austin said that passing the temporary bill would stall more than $4.3 billion in research and development projects and delay 135 new military housing and construction projects totaling nearly $10 billion.

It also would slow progress on a number of key nuclear, ship-building, high-tech drone and other weapons programs. Many of those projects are in an array of congressional districts, and could also have an impact on local residents and jobs.

Since the bill would not fund legally required pay raises for troops and civilians, the department would have to find other cuts to offset them. Those cuts could halt enlistment bonuses, delay training for National Guard and Reserve forces, limit flying hours and other training for active-duty troops and impede the replacement of weapons and other equipment that has been pulled from Pentagon stocks and sent to Ukraine.

Going forward with the continuing resolution, said Austin, will “subject service members and their families to unnecessary stress, empower our adversaries, misalign billions of dollars, damage our readiness, and impede our ability to react to emergent events.”

Noting that there have been 48 continuing resolutions during 14 of the last 15 fiscal years — for a total of nearly 1,800 days — Austin said Congress must break the pattern of inaction because the U.S. military can't compete with China “with our hands tied behind our back every fiscal year.”

Johnson's bill is not expected to get support in the Democratic-controlled Senate, if it even makes it that far. But Congress will have to pass some type of temporary measure by Sept. 30 in order to avoid a shutdown.

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