Enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps with a GED: Meeting the 15 Credit Hour Requirement
Introduction
To enter the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) with a General Educational Development (GED) certificate, you typically must secure 15 college credit hours. This requirement can be met through various accredited online colleges and universities. This guide will explore suitable options and provide tips for successfully enrolling in and completing the necessary courses.
Accredited Online Colleges Accepting GED for USMC Enlistment
Multiple accredited online colleges offer programs that can help you attain the required 15 credit hours, making them excellent resources for aspiring Marines. Below are five institutions worth considering:
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU offers a diverse range of online associate and bachelor's degree programs, which can be instrumental in meeting your credit hour requirement. This institution is recognized for its flexibility and comprehensive course offerings, making it a valuable choice for prospective enlisted individuals.
Ashford University (now the University of Arizona Global Campus)
Formerly Ashford University, the University of Arizona Global Campus is renowned for providing online degree programs that offer credit options. This university's flexible and accessible courses can be particularly beneficial for those dedicated to achieving their enlistment goal.
Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers flexible online programs designed to help students gain the required credit hours efficiently. Their courses accommodate various schedules, making it easier to juggle enlistment goals and other commitments.
American Public University System (APUS)
APUS is an excellent choice for those seeking a wide range of online courses and degrees. Specifically designed to cater to students like you, APUS provides flexible options to help you earn the necessary credits toward your USMC enlistment.
Liberty University
Liberty University offers online courses and degree programs with a strong focus on flexibility, making it an ideal choice for students aiming to meet the 15 credit hour requirement for USMC enlistment. The university has a proven track record of assisting enthusiastic and dedicated applicants.
University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix offers a variety of online courses that can help you accumulate the required credit hours. Their programs are designed to be flexible and convenient, ensuring you can balance your military aspirations with other responsibilities.
Important Considerations
Before enrolling in any of these programs, it is crucial to ensure that the institution is fully accredited and that the credits you earn are transferrable and recognized by the USMC. This step is essential to avoid wasting time and resources unilaterally. Additionally, contacting a USMC recruiter or the education office at your local Marine Corps station can provide you with specific guidance and confirm which institutions and programs are accepted.
Preparing for Credit Earning
In addition to enrolling in accredited online colleges, you should also make an appointment with a community college academic counselor to assess your readiness for college-level courses. If you do not have transcripts or a high school diploma, you may need to take proficiency tests to determine your academic preparedness.
Testing results will help you understand if you are prepared for college-level courses. If you are not ready for college-level courses, you may need to pursue adult education courses in English, math, and science. While these courses may not be creditable, they can still be valuable for improving your academic skills.
However, if your test results indicate that you have strong reading comprehension and critical thinking skills, you should be able to handle and take courses in history and humanities. These types of courses can be highly creditable and beneficial for your future in the USMC.
A Word of Caution
It is essential to avoid relying solely on online sources for guidance, as incorrect information can lead to wasted time and resources. Always consult with your recruiter to ensure that the path you choose is the right one. Your recruiter is a valuable resource for personalized advice and guidance. Make an appointment with them to confirm which institutions and programs are accepted by the USMC.
Conclusion
Enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps with a GED is a significant step, and meeting the 15 credit hour requirement is an important aspect of that process. By choosing the right accredited online colleges and working closely with academic counselors and recruiters, you can ensure a smooth and successful path to service.