will the army pay for my 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.

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Army's Premier Education Benefits May Be on Chopping Block, with Tuition Assistance Cuts Being Considered, Too

The Army is seeking cuts to two major education benefits -- a move that expands previously reported potential cutbacks to credentialing assistance for soldiers and that could affect more than 100,000 troops who tap the benefits each year.

Last week, Military.com reported the Army was eyeing cuts to its Credentialing Assistance program . But the potential upcoming cuts also include its tuition assistance program , the service confirmed to the publication. This is the first time tuition assistance being on the chopping block has been publicly acknowledged.

The education benefits, which are currently under review and cost the Army about $278 million last year, are broadly popular among the rank and file, and are among the service's premier recruiting and retention tools. The Army has historically seen furthering the education of its troops as key to a well-rounded force.

Read Next: Marine Family Wants Safety, Security Improvements After Child Dies in Military Police Response to Gate Breach

"The Army recognizes the value of both to support our soldiers' professional development and readiness levels," Maj. Andrea Kelly, a service spokesperson, said in a statement to Military.com. "However, in order to ensure their long-term sustainability, the Army is conducting a thorough review of both programs."

The news comes as college degrees and civilian training are becoming more relevant in the service, especially among noncommissioned officers for whom civilian education is quickly becoming expected. The Army is also in the midst of a historic recruiting shortage, and education benefits have long been a critical incentive to fill the ranks.

It's unclear what prompted the benefits review, or whether those funds are even able to be siphoned to other priorities, as law sometimes dictates the services spend money in specific ways. The Army declined interview requests with officials for this story, including with Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer, whose office is traditionally the center of gravity for issues pertaining to the enlisted force, which most often uses the benefits.

Tuition assistance was introduced in 1999, but it was broadly implemented in the Army in 2002 in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks when the service needed to quickly beef up its ranks. At the time, college was also becoming a greater priority both in the service and in the civilian workforce.

Since 2020, about 101,000 soldiers across all Army components use the benefit each year -- averaging about $218 million in cost. But it's unclear what specific cuts or changes to tuition assistance the Army is mulling.

The Army's Credentialing Assistance Program, or Army CA, was introduced forcewide in 2020 in its current form, after evolving from a smaller version of the benefit. It was broadly seen by senior leadership as key during a time in which the service wanted troops to have diverse skill sets outside of their military occupation.

At the same time, the Army CA benefit could set soldiers up for success in the civilian world when they transition out of the service.

In the last four years, 64,500 soldiers have used the benefit, with licensing and qualifications in project management, personal training and piloting being among the most frequently chosen fields. The use of the benefit has ballooned since 2020, costing $8 million then and growing to $60.2 million last year, according to data provided by the Army.

Right now, the service is looking to cut its credentialing benefit in 2025 from $4,000 per year without a cap on use to just $1,000 per year and never to exceed $4,000 in a soldier's career, sources with direct knowledge of the deliberations explained to Military.com. The publication also reviewed an internal brief and emails confirming the plans, though it was unclear whether those plans had been finalized.

The cuts would not impact the GI Bill , which is controlled by the Department of Veterans Affairs , or scholarships through the National Guard , which are controlled by the states.

Service-specific education benefits are built for soldiers to use while in service and can be employed piecemeal -- whereas the GI Bill is generally built to be used in semesters, which is often impractical for active-duty troops. The GI Bill is also a benefit that can be transferred to a spouse or child.

Related : Army Eyes Dramatic Cuts to Key Education Benefits for Soldiers

Steve Beynon

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The Military Wallet

Army Tuition Assistance Benefits – How to Pay for Your College Education

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Army Tuition Assistance Benefits

What does the army tuition assistance program cover, army tuition assistance eligibility, time in service and additional service commitments, eligible study programs, alternative ways to pay for college.

The Army Tuition Assistance (TA) program provides tuition for eligible Soldiers to help them achieve their educational goals.

However, Soldiers must first meet stringent criteria to be eligible to participate in the TA program.

Let’s dive in and look at what the Army TA program offers, who is eligible, which educational programs are covered, and how to take advantage of this valuable benefit.

The Department of Defense authorizes military branches to provide Tuition Assistance benefits of up to $250 per semester hour of credit. However, each branch can specify its standards within these limitations. The Army, for example, will fund 100% of the tuition for up to 16 hours of credit, not exceeding $250 per credit hour (up to $4,000 per fiscal year).

TA covers tuition only . TA will not pay for fees institutions levy unless authorized by DoD Instruction 1322.25 .

This means the Army does not pay certain fees, including laboratory fees, course fees, some administrative fees, books, and other fees.

To be eligible for TA benefits, Soldiers must be on active duty.

Before obtaining Tuition Assistance, Soldiers must contact their Education Services Specialist or visit an Education Center to declare an educational goal and create an educational plan.

The following also may apply:

• Soldiers can use TA for up to 130 SH for a bachelor’s degree and up to 39 SH for a master’s degree.
• The 39-semester hour limit applies to all credits taken after completing a baccalaureate degree.
• Soldiers can’t use TA to pursue a second bachelor’s degree or doctoral degree, nor can they double up and request TA while on orders in a fully funded degree program.
• TA funds cannot be used for placement exams, competency tests, or evaluation for past experience.
• As other fully funded programs are available for first professional degrees (PHD, MD, JD), TA is not designed for this purpose.
• To be eligible for TA, Soldiers must meet Army physical fitness test (APFT) and height/weight standards and not have a DA adverse action flag.
• TA requests must be submitted and approved prior to the first class date, without exception.
• Reimbursement will be required from the servicemember if a successful course completion is not obtained.

Any enlisted Soldier using TA must have enough time left in service to complete the courses they are signing up for.

By law, officers who use TA incur a service obligation.

• Active Duty officers incur an Active Duty Service Obligation (ADSO) of two years, and
• Reserve Component officers incur a Reserve Duty Service Obligation (RDSO) of four years.
• The ADSO/RDSO is calculated from the date of completion of the last course for which TA was used.

Army Tuition Assistance is available for online courses, by correspondence, or other non-traditional means. The courses must be offered by colleges accredited by accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Professional degrees such as a Ph.D., MD, or JD were listed as ineligible for the Army Tuition Assistance program. However, these degrees are required for hard-to-fill billets and are almost always in high demand.

There are special programs to help Soldiers achieve these degrees.  See your Education and Training Office for more information regarding eligible study programs and schools.

Army Soldiers who aren’t eligible for the Tuition Assistance program still have options to continue their education while serving.

For example, the DoD offers military members the opportunity to take credit by examination tests , including the CLEP and DANTES tests.

Passing these test gives students college credits at a variety of colleges and universities. They can be a great way to reduce the time needed to achieve a degree. I used these extensively while taking classes on active duty . Many colleges and universities also offer credits for military service.

Other ways to pay for college include the Montgomery GI Bill , the Post-9/11 GI Bill , military scholarships , federal grants, grants and scholarships from schools, and other tuition assistance programs .

With a little planning, achieving a Bachelor’s Degree with little to no out-of-pocket expense may be possible without using the Army TA program. This would allow enlisted members to complete a Bachelor’s Degree and then begin working on a post-bachelor’s degree without waiting to reach the 10-year service mark.

About Post Author

Ryan Guina is The Military Wallet’s founder. He is a writer, small business owner, and entrepreneur. He served over six years on active duty in the USAF and is a current member of the Tennessee Air National Guard.

Ryan started The Military Wallet in 2007 after separating from active duty military service and has been writing about financial, small business, and military benefits topics since then.

Featured In: Ryan’s writing has been featured in the following publications: Forbes, Military.com, US News & World Report, Yahoo Finance, Reserve & National Guard Magazine (print and online editions), Military Influencer Magazine, Cash Money Life, The Military Guide, USAA, Go Banking Rates, and many other publications.

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Elliot says

June 17, 2019 at 7:07 am

Used to be that taking those general education classes in political science, psychology, sociology, economics, history, mathematics, science, foreign language, classics literature, and religious studies meant you had academic excellence.

Now college general education classes are treated like a checklist nowadays to be tested out of via community college credits or AP classes. It’s sad.

james kunz says

February 11, 2016 at 1:15 pm

I am seriously considering joining the Air Force, and I’m curious about something from your article. You wrote, “As other fully funded programs are available for first professional degrees (PHD, MD, JD), TA is not designed for this purpose.”

I was wondering how I could learn more about these other programs. Is this referring to the Post-911 G.I. Bill, or a program that can be utilized while in enlisted as an officer?

Ryan Guina says

February 12, 2016 at 11:14 pm

James, Thank you for contacting me. The military has Tuition Assistance Programs that allow service members to take classes while on active duty, and have some or all of the classes paid for (up to the tuition cost per semester hour and annual limits).

This is separate from the Post-9/11 GI Bill, or the Montgomery GI Bill. There may also be other programs that allow service members to attend specific college programs in exchange for further service commitments. The examples given include professional degrees such as PHD, MD, JD, and other high need degree programs. These vary based on the needs of the branch of service and are highly competitive.

The best thing to do is speak with a recruiter about your interests and about the various educational programs that may be available.

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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.

How much can you make in the military? US officers can earn a $220K salary plus some pretty generous benefits

• Base pay is the same across the military but can increase significantly as you move up the ranks.
• Military personnel can get other tax-free allowances for housing and meals.
• Other benefits include comprehensive healthcare, discounted education, and hefty signing bonuses.  

Most people don't turn to government jobs for high pay — unless they're considering joining the military.

Military service can offer a solid base pay , especially as you rank up. But the full compensation package of active military personnel goes beyond annual salary.

BI talked to various branches in the Department of Defense, including the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, National Guard, and Air Force, as well as military personnel across these branches, to decode the often complex military compensation packages.

Officers can earn a $220k salary

All active duty military personnel adhere to the same pay scale and ranking system for base pay, regardless of which branch they serve in.

The basic pay scale is mainly split into two categories: enlisted members and officers. Enlisted members are ranked from E1-E9 and officers are ranked from O1-O10.

Some military members also receive special pay on top of their base pay if they hold a military specialty or qualification, or are based in a high-risk location. For example, an E5 nuclear specialist in the military receives an extra $150 a month. In the Space Force, specialty personnel get paid in increments of $75 to $450 per month, according to a spokesperson.

An enlisted service member with an E-1 ranking receives $2,017.20 per month in basic pay, according to the DoD 2024 basic pay table. Usually, E1-E4 members are living in the barracks so they have little to no expenses.

Service members receive a routine pay increase about every two years depending on their rank, but promotions can vary and it depends on evaluations, time spent in the military, and the specific branch. For example, if you're in the Navy, you may need to take exams to get promoted. To become an officer, you have to have a college degree.

A new officer's basic pay begins at about $3,826 per month, while a more senior officer with a 0-5 rank with 10 years of service will earn $9,153 per month. Although this rate is listed in the basic pay chart, it often takes 10 or more years to reach this rank.

An O-9 or O-10 officer can make up to about $18,491 per month, which comes out to about $221,900 per year. The earliest you can make that amount is after 20 years of service if you make it to the top ranking, which is difficult to achieve.

Paychecks also include tax-free allowances

Basic pay serves as the primary compensation for service members, but they also get several tax-free allowances on their paychecks.

Basic Allowance for Housing, or BAH, is one of the most common tax-free allowances. Service members start getting BAH when they reach E-5 or E-6, get married, or have kids. BAH rates are determined by the Department of Defense and are based on housing research and market analysis. They typically increase each year.

Service members receive amounts depending on their rank, number of dependents, and cost of living in their location. For example, an E-5 with dependents in San Diego receives $3,882 per month in BAH, according to Veteran.com .

Service members outside the US may also receive an additional overseas housing allowance to incentivize military members to serve internationally.

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Military personnel may also receive Basic Allowance for Subsistence, or BAS, which is meant to offset the cost of their meals. If they qualify, enlisted members get about $460 a month in BAS, according to the Department of Defense's Finance and Accounting Service.

There are various other allowances that depend on specific circumstances, like clothing allowances for uniforms or family separation allowances for service members who serve a tour of duty.

There can be big bonuses

The US military hands out signing bonuses as a recruiting tool to accelerate and fill certain gaps.

A typical enlistment bonus can range from $1,000 or $2,000, according to an Army spokesperson.

Some programs pay up to $50,000 for enlistment bonuses offered to those entering a key specialty like cyber military intelligence, according to an Army spokesperson.

The military also pays retention bonuses that target critical specialties. Some officers can receive as high as a $245,000 bonus over a 7-year contract. Bonus amounts are dependent on qualified officer types and when they sign the contract in their careers.

The dispersal of funds depends on the service designator program, a Navy spokesperson said. While some branches may give 50% upfront and disperse the rest over five years, others may disperse it evenly within the contract period.

The majority of the bonuses are taxable, with the exception of bonuses given to service members in a non-taxable zone, like Bahrain.

Common positions that receive bonuses include pilots, nuclear sailors, and service warfare officers, according to a Navy spokesperson.

Free education, free healthcare, and a pension

The military offers large education benefits with the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which helps service members and their families pay for some of — or in some cases all of — the costs for college, grad school, and other training programs.

If you meet the 36-month requirement, you can get full tuition paid at a public school or up to $27,120.05 at a private institution. You may also be eligible for a housing allowance, according to the US Department of Veteran Affairs. You can also get up to 90% of education costs covered if you've served under 36 months.

Service members also qualify for the Blended Retirement System after 20 years of service. The retirement plan offers a traditional pension, which includes roughly 40% of pre-retirement pay calculated by multiplying 2% by their years of service by their highest 36 months of basic pay.

The system also offers a Thrift Savings Plan, which is a government-run 401(k) account, similar to a civilian retirement plan. It allows members to invest their money with a 1% contribution after 60 days of service. The government will also match contributions up to 4% of basic pay starting the second year. TSP can be accessed even if you don't complete 20 years of service.

Active duty service members, their families, and retirees also receive free medical and dental care through Tricare, the military health care program. With Tricare, military members have no premium charges for coverage, and no out-of-pocket costs for medical care or prescriptions.

Service members who serve 40 years in the military qualify for a yearly pension with their full salary.

As a service member, you'll also be eligible for a number of other benefits like discounted commissary and exchange at grocery stores and department stores. The military also covers the cost of moving if you're deployed to a different location.

Do you work in the military and want to share your story? Email the author at [email protected].

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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!

“In the times in which we’re living today, Liberty University’s mission , the mission of training up a generation of Champions for Christ in literally every occupation, has never been more important .”

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As an accredited Christian college with a 7,000-acre campus in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers you an education that is both academically challenging and rooted in a biblical worldview.

At Liberty, you’ll benefit from 35+ years of learning, growing, adapting, and innovating for the distance learner — and more than a decade of researching the needs of the online student. You can be confident that we’ve taken the time to learn what’s important to you.

And what’s that?

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These important factors challenged us to find new financial solutions, get ahead of industry trends, and blaze trails into cutting-edge career fields — and it’s paid off. That’s the difference experience makes.

Ranked in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America   and recognized by multiple institutions for   academic quality, affordability, and accessibility.

Why Choose Liberty University?

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Choose from a wide variety of programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral level, most of which are 100% online*. With an 8-week format and 8 start dates per year, it’s easy to fit your courses around your schedule!

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All of our courses are taught from a Christian perspective, and our faculty see themselves as mentors. Our mission is to Train Champions for Christ — we’re committed to championing you as you study to go further in your field, become a leader in your industry, or start a new career.

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Throughout your educational journey, you will have access to academic resources that will aid in the completion of your degree. Services include our Jerry Falwell Library, writing center, tutoring, study aids, IT assistance, 30+ tutorial videos, live webinars, and personalized help from our academic advising team.

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As a nonprofit (not-for-profit) university, Liberty is in the business of training skilled professionals to make a difference in the world – not gaining profit, revenue, or producing dividends for shareholders. In keeping with our commitment to your education, we invest our resources back into degree programs and into your student experience.

While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university and has not increased tuition for 9 straight years. Lower tuition means less student loan debt for students.

For Liberty University, nonprofit is more than a status; it is a valuable opportunity to invest in the lives of students who will go out and impact the world.

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Financial aid.

Nearly 80% of all Liberty students in an online program are awarded financial aid. Virginia residents may qualify for additional aid — learn more !

Corporate Tuition Assistance

Deferred – If your company reimburses you for the cost of your education, you pay only a portion of your balance up front. You submit your grades to your employer who pays you, and then you pay the remaining balance for your classes.

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Qualified military service members, veterans, and their spouses can receive up to 55% off their tuition rate for eligible programs!

Contact one of our Admissions Counselors for more information by calling (800) 424-9595 .

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Fewer airmen could receive bonuses for tough jobs in 2025

This story was updated April 10 at 11:46 a.m. to include additional comment from the Air Force.

The Air Force would cut bonus pay for more than 700 enlisted airmen in some of the service’s toughest jobs in fiscal year 2025, according to its most recent budget request.

Air Force to phase out bonuses for airmen in 33 tough jobs

Seventy career fields will be eligible for bonuses ranging from $75 to $450 a month; another 33 will receive half-pay for a year before they are cut..

If approved by Congress, the cuts would reduce the Air Force’s special duty assignment pay program by about $4 million as the service shifts money toward modernization and maintenance efforts while planning for a flat workforce in the coming year.

Airmen receive monthly bonus pay between $75 and $450 — totaling $900 to $5,400 annually — under the program. The Air Force estimates it would spend $91.2 million for 30,134 airmen to receive the money next year, down from an estimated $95.2 million in FY24, in which it projects 30,904 airmen will receive bonus pay.

The Air Force routinely offers bonuses in some of its most demanding jobs, though more details about which career fields will be eligible for special duty pay are expected to be released later this year, and numbers in the FY25 budget could fluctuate based on reenlistments, a shift in bonus scales and airmen who change jobs. Current specialties that qualify range from recruiters to pararescuemen, combat controllers, tactical air control party operators and about 20 others , according to the Air Force’s budget request, issued March 11.

Air Force again looks to cut bonus pay for some airmen in tough jobs

More than 1,000 airmen could lose bonus pay in fiscal 2024 under the new budget proposal..

“These numbers are estimates and the announcement for FY25 SDAP is slated for the summer,” Air Force spokesperson Master Sgt. Deana Heitzman told Air Force Times.

While the number of airmen receiving the bonus would decrease in the coming year, it’s far fewer than the nearly 2,200 personnel who were slated to lose that extra cash in FY24.

Though fewer airmen are eligible for the bonuses this year, the service plans to put more money toward the program. In FY23, the service spent $93.4 million on bonus pay for 33,102 troops; in FY24, which runs through the end of September, the Air Force estimates it will spend $95.1 million on bonuses for 30,904 airmen.

In 2025, the pool of airmen who receive the highest bonuses — $450 each month — would shrink by a little more than 800 troops. Those at the lowest tier, earning $75 monthly, would also decrease by about 1,600 personnel. Meanwhile, the group of airmen who earn an extra $150 a month would balloon by more than 2,000 people to 10,862 airmen next year.

Air Force offers new bonuses to entice troops to move to cold bases

The department of the air force is offering one-time bonuses for airmen and guardians who agree to yearlong tours at seven frigid bases..

The Air Force approved 70 career fields for special duty bonuses last year , down from about 100 the year prior. The service may adjust jobs, and bonus rates, throughout the year as needs arise. To qualify, jobs must require special qualifications earned through school or screening, “extremely difficult personal effort” or “greater responsibility or difficulty” than typical for airmen in a certain grade.

Previous jobs that have received the bonus but were dropped in recent years from eligibility include flight attendants, loadmasters, contracting specialists and enlisted pilots that fly the RQ-4 Global Hawk reconnaissance drone, which the service is retiring.

Changes in special duty pay would also come as the service plans to dole out $1.1 billion in bonuses and retention pay for 118,000 “critical positions,” including $327 million for aviation jobs and $21 million to retain cyber specialists.

Special compensation is one lever the Air Force uses to reward troops for taking on unique missions and to entice them to remain in uniform. The program may face further changes as the service shrinks to fewer than 495,000 uniformed jobs in 2025 and reshapes its workforce to fight future wars.

Courtney Mabeus-Brown is the senior reporter at Air Force Times. She is an award-winning journalist who previously covered the military for Navy Times and The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Va., where she first set foot on an aircraft carrier. Her work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Foreign Policy and more.

In Other News

Ukraine will soon be outgunned without help, top Europe general says

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Air Force veteran apparently joined Russian army to flee charges in US

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USS George Washington to deploy to South America

The george washington is also poised to return to yokosuka, japan, as the navy’s only forward-deployed carrier later this year..

Bird smacks into Marine F-35B after takeoff, prompting pilot to land

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Young veterans more likely to get dangerous jobs than civilian peers

Young veterans are more likely to work in jobs with significant physical demands and health risks than civilian peers, new research found..

States That Don’t Tax Military Retirement in 2024

E arning a military retirement is a well-deserved benefit for service members who’ve dedicated themselves to the United States and protecting it from threats. It’s been a valuable incentive for encouraging people to choose and stay in a military career. Typically, you’ll be eligible for military retirement after serving at least 20 years on active duty, but you may qualify sooner if you are injured in the line of duty or must leave the military because of a debilitating health condition.

See Also: Owe Money to the IRS? Most People Don’t Realize You Can Do This

Understanding how your military retirement payments are taxed is important for retirement planning because your tax bracket may be greater or less than it is now. This is especially true if you enlist in the military when you turn 18, retire at age 38 and pursue a second career in the private sector. In that case, you may have retirement income from multiple sources, including long-term capital gains from investments.

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Who Receives Military Retirement?

In general, you have to complete at least 20 years of active service in the military to qualify for military retirement. This includes officers and enlisted personnel in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Space Force. Service members who retire for medical reasons or disability may still be eligible for military retirement without the 20-year requirement. Reservists also can qualify for military retirement after they turn 60 and complete 20 years of service. Civilians working in the military qualify for military retirement if they are veterans, but civilians who have not served can receive retirement benefits from the federal civil service.

How Does Military Retirement Work?

Military personnel can choose between a pension and a Thrift Savings Plan, or TSP, which functions similarly to a 401(k) . The pension plan is a defined benefit plan, which means retirees receive a set payment every month for the rest of their lives. Service members enrolled in the TSP contribute 3% of their income to the account during each pay period, and the government matches contributions up to 5%.

The military primarily uses one of three computation methods to calculate retirement payments, depending on the date the individual began their active duty career.

• Anyone who entered active duty before Sept. 8, 1980, is eligible for the Final Pay plan, which has a rate of 50% of the retiree’s basic pay plus 2.5% for each year of service after 20 years.
• Those who started a military career between Sept. 8, 1980, and July 31, 1986, fall under the High-36 model, with pay based on the average of the individual’s 36 highest-paying months. Retirees receive 50% of this average, along with another 2.5% for each year they worked after meeting the 20-year minimum.
• After August 1, 1986, the REDUX plan is an option. Under this plan, pay is based on 40% of the highest-paying 36 months plus 3.5% for each year after 20 years of service. Under this plan, retirees also receive a $30,000 Career Status Bonus.

Do I Have to Pay Federal Taxes on My Military Retirement?

Yes, in most cases, military retirement payments are considered taxable income by federal and state governments. However, disability retirement pay may be exempt if the individual meets certain criteria. For example, someone receiving disability pay after being injured in a war does not have to pay income tax on these payments. No one pays Social Security and Medicare tax out of retirement income.

In What States Is Military Retirement Pay Not Taxed?

Nine states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. No one living in these states pays state income tax. California and Washington, D.C. levy income tax on everyone, including military retirees. The rest of the states exempt all or part of residents’ military retirement pay from state income tax.

Here are the states that do not tax military retirement pay (but they do have a state income tax for other forms of income):

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• West Virginia

The following states exempt a portion of military retirement pay: Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Vermont and Virginia. Like tax write-offs , the exemption can help you lower the amount of tax you have to pay.

Tax planning is an important part of preparing for retirement, so it’s helpful to know which retirement income sources are subject to federal and state taxes. Understanding how your military retirement benefits are taxed can help you make decisions like when to stop working and where to live if lowering your tax liability is part of your strategy to stretch your savings.

• If you're looking for a place where your money stretches farther, consider retiring to one of the states that does not tax military retirement pay. Choosing a place to live is a personal decision, and factors like climate, cost of living and access to healthcare are important. For example, neither Texas nor Florida tax military retirement pay, but the cost of living in Houston is lower than the cost of living in Tampa. As a bonus, Houston Medical Hospital made it to the honorable mention list on U.S. News & World Report's ranking of the best hospitals in the country. Baltimore's Johns Hopkins Hospital also made the list, and the city's cost of living is also lower than Tampa's, which may make it a more attractive option even though Maryland has a state income tax.
• States offer a number of benefits for veterans, including tax exemptions, fee reductions and education assistance. The best state is the one with the benefits that matter most to you. Texas and Florida offer the most generous tax exemptions and education benefits for veterans and their families. Other states to consider include Alaska, Nevada, Illinois and Virginia.
• Your military retirement payment may not be taxable in some situations. For example, if you qualified for disability payments before September 25, 1975, or if your disability is the result of an injury sustained in armed conflict, your military disability retirement pay is not part of your taxable income. Other veteran benefits, including education costs, grants for purchasing accommodated homes or vehicles and insurance payments, do not count as taxable income.
• Some retired people file tax returns, typically if they receive income from a part-time job or self-employment and meet the age and income filing requirements. The process for filing a tax return after you've retired is similar to what tax payers who are still in the workforce do. You can file a return online or by mail, and you may even wonder how long it takes to receive a tax refund if you're expecting one.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : States That Don’t Tax Military Retirement in 2024

US military support for Israel: What does it provide?

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WHAT AID IS MANDATED BY LAW?

What advanced weapons systems does israel get, will israel get more for its campaign against hamas.

HOW ELSE DOES WASHINGTON SUPPORT ISRAEL?

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Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Additional reporting by Mike Stone; Editing by Don Durfee and Bill Berkrot

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Patricia Zengerle has reported from more than 20 countries, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and China. An award-winning Washington-based national security and foreign policy reporter who also has worked as an editor, Patricia has appeared on NPR, C-Span and other programs, spoken at the National Press Club and attended the Hoover Institution Media Roundtable. She is a recipient of the Edwin M. Hood Award for Diplomatic Correspondence.

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A bipartisan group of senators will introduce a bill to renew the United States' trade pact with sub-Saharan Africa ahead of its expiration next year, an aide to one of the senators said on Thursday.