Expert: Rod Powers - 5/31/2007

Question
I am interested in becoming an officer in any military branch, but preferably the USMC. My question is: Would I be at any advantage(career wise)by joining the military after completing a BA? If so what would this consist of? I plan on graduating with a BA in Political Science (international relations) and Communication. What direction can I take in the military with this education? Also, I read about restrictions based on psychoactive substance use in the past and was just wondering if officers were held to higher standards in this field? I appreciate your attention in the matter.  

Answer
Hi Bryan,

Your chances (in most branches, including the USMC) of being selected for OCS (Officer Candidate School) with a bachelor's degree is about the same, whether you are an enlisted member or a civilian applicant.

With the exception of certain jobs (such as doctor, lawyer, nurse, chaplain, engineer, etc.), the service don't tie commissioned officer jobs to specific degree programs.

When you apply for OCS, your degree program is just *one* of the factors used in branch selection (and -- with the exception of jobs which *require* specific degree types, such as I mentioned above), it's the least factor. During the OCS applicantion process, you'll give up to five branch preferences. The actualy branch you're selected for depends (in order of imporance), your (1) qualifications, (2) the "needs of the service," and (3) your preferences.

For more information about the United States Military, feel free to visit my U.S. Military Information Site at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com