Top Military Friendly Schools (US)

Military veterans and active-duty service members face unique challenges when pursuing higher education, and as a result, many universities and colleges across the United States have taken steps to become more accommodating to their needs. These schools have tailored their programs, services, and financial aid offerings to ensure that veterans and military families can succeed academically and transition smoothly into civilian life. The recognition of "military-friendly" schools is an important designation, highlighting those institutions that go above and beyond in supporting military students.

Among the top-ranked military-friendly schools in the U.S. are Colorado State University (CSU), Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU), Saint Leo University, Western Governors University (WGU), and Clarkson University, each of which provides a unique set of services and programs to support military students, making higher education more accessible and successful for those who have served their country.

Colorado State University (CSU) is consistently ranked among the top military-friendly schools in the nation, earning recognition from G.I. Jobs magazine, which places CSU among the top 15 percent of colleges, universities, and trade schools that make the most effort to accommodate military veterans. CSU's commitment to military students is evident in several aspects of its services and programs. The university was the first four-year institution to partner with Veterans Green Jobs, a nonprofit organization that helps veterans transition into environmental and green energy careers. Through this partnership, CSU provides educational opportunities in sustainable energy and environmental sciences, which are fields that align well with the interests and skill sets of many military veterans. Additionally, CSU has a Veterans Services office that offers guidance on benefits, academic counseling, and peer mentoring, helping to create a supportive environment for veterans. The university is also known for offering a wide range of online programs, allowing veterans to balance their academic pursuits with their work and family responsibilities. CSU’s continued dedication to serving the military community makes it an excellent choice for veterans seeking higher education opportunities.

Hawai‘i Pacific University (HPU) is another university that has earned recognition for its efforts to serve military students. For three consecutive years, HPU was selected by Military Advanced Education (MAE) magazine for inclusion in its "Guide to Top Military-Friendly Colleges and Universities." HPU has consistently been ranked among the top 10 percent of military-friendly schools, thanks to the comprehensive support it provides to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. The university offers a variety of degree programs, both on-campus and online, that cater to the needs of military students, allowing them to balance their education with their military obligations. HPU has a robust Veterans Center that provides counseling, academic support, and assistance with VA benefits, ensuring that military students have access to the resources they need to succeed. The university also offers flexible class schedules and military discounts to make higher education more accessible. Given its location in Hawai‘i, a state with a significant military presence, HPU is well-positioned to serve the educational needs of military personnel, and its continued recognition as a military-friendly school reflects its commitment to this population.

Saint Leo University, located in Florida, has long been recognized as one of the top military-friendly schools in the country. In 2010, G.I. Jobs magazine ranked Saint Leo University among the top 15 percent of colleges and universities for active-duty service members, reserves, and veterans. Saint Leo University offers a variety of programs tailored specifically for military students, including degrees in Criminal Justice, Healthcare Management, Business Administration, and Social Work. The university has strong ties to the military community, with programs such as the Criminal Justice Program, which partners with the FBI National Academy Associates to provide specialized training for veterans. Saint Leo University also offers online degree programs that are highly flexible, making it easier for military students to earn their degrees while managing their service obligations. The university's commitment to veterans is reflected in its veteran-focused services, including counseling, guidance on VA benefits, and access to the Yellow Ribbon Program, which helps to cover the cost of education for veterans using their GI Bill benefits. Saint Leo University’s reputation as a military-friendly institution is backed by its comprehensive support services and its ability to meet the unique needs of military students.

Western Governors University (WGU) has become a leading institution for military students seeking flexible and affordable online education. In 2009, WGU was honored as one of the "Top 20 Military Friendly Schools" by Military Advanced Education magazine. The university offers a wide array of online degree programs, including those in business, education, healthcare, and information technology, all of which are approved for Veterans Administration (VA) education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill. WGU's innovative competency-based education model allows students to progress through their coursework at their own pace, enabling military students to earn their degrees while balancing their education with the demands of their military careers. Additionally, WGU offers scholarships specifically designed for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their spouses, making higher education more affordable for those who have served in the armed forces. The university’s dedication to military students is also evident in its veteran-focused support services, which include guidance on VA benefits, tutoring, and career counseling. WGU's flexible, online education model makes it an ideal choice for military students who require a non-traditional approach to higher education.

Clarkson University, located in New York, has earned a spot on the Military Friendly Schools list for 2011, thanks to its extensive support for military students. Clarkson's military-friendly programs include its ROTC programs, which allow students to receive training while earning their degree. The university also has dedicated veterans' counselors who offer academic and personal support to military students. Clarkson has been recognized for its participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which provides financial assistance to veterans attending private institutions. Additionally, the university hosts events for veterans, offering networking opportunities and a sense of community. Clarkson’s commitment to recruiting and retaining military and veteran students is evident in its robust support system and its active participation in programs designed to ease the transition from military to civilian life. The university’s efforts to serve military students and its strong academic reputation make it a top choice for veterans seeking a high-quality education.

In conclusion, the recognition of military-friendly schools is a testament to the efforts made by universities and colleges across the United States to provide education and support to military service members and veterans. Colorado State University, Hawai‘i Pacific University, Saint Leo University, Western Governors University, and Clarkson University are among the top institutions that have earned praise for their commitment to serving military students. These universities offer a variety of programs, both on-campus and online, that cater to the needs of military students, with flexible schedules, dedicated support services, and financial assistance options like the Yellow Ribbon Program. Their efforts to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment have earned them well-deserved recognition as military-friendly institutions, making them ideal choices for veterans and active-duty service members looking to continue their education.