Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/What can I do with a degree in Spanish

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Expert: MARK A. HOWELL - 7/15/2009


Question
Which branch of the military (and which occupation) could I have with a B.A. in Spanish?

Answer
Jose,
All branches of the military require only a Bachelor's degree in any subject.  The major doesn't matter because they're more interested in seeing that you have what it takes to successfully complete a 4-year degree.  They're looking for the self discipline and ability to follow instructions (homework), can complete assignments, write well, and can see a job through to completion.

So you can join any branch you wish as an officer.  However, be advised that once they discover you are fluent in Spanish they will have a tendency to send you to assignments where speaking Spanish is desirable, such as the southwestern states and Latin/South America.  The only way they know is if you admit to it on your enlistment forms.  For example, I speak 11 languages and never admitted to knowing any foreign language.  Thus, I have been to all 50 states and 36 foreign countries.  If I had admitted to speaking Arabic for example, I would have undoubtedly been assigned to the Middle East my entire career.  I've seen it happen too many times.

So it's your choice.
Good luck
Colonel H

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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MARK A. HOWELL

Expertise

All military questions, any Service. 30 years experience & two Ph.D.'s. 4 times Base Commander. Worked with Army, Navy, USMC, USCG and several foreign military units. Veteran of Kosovo, Bosnia, Macedonia, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and 10 civil wars in Africa.

Experience

Air Force Colonel with 30 years experience. Air Force Base Commander 4 times. Highly decorated.

Organizations
Org of Am Historians, Wild West History Assoc., Disabled American Veterans - Life Member, Am Motorcyclist Assoc. - Life Member, North Am Hunt Club - Life Member, NWTF - Life Member

Publications
Numerous book reviews published in the Journal of American History. Two books submitted for publication.

Education/Credentials
Ph.D. in military history, Columbus University (Summa Cum Laude) Ph.D. in history, Northfield University, London, England (Summa Cum Laude) Master of Arts degree in history, Marshall University, WV Bachelors degree, double-major in history and mathematics, Salem College, WV Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL

Awards and Honors
Legion of Merit Defense MSM MSM x 5 Joint Commendation Mdl AF Commendation Medal Army Commendation Mdl Joint Achievement Mdl AF Achievement Medal Outstanding Volunteer Mdl

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