Guide to Army Education and Training

Enlist the services of Army education experts to expand your military career options

By R.N. Dolgener, Special Education Teacher

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get the most from Army physical training, Army basic combat training

US Army basic training encompasses combat tactics, physical conditioning and occupation-specific training depending on assigned MOS, or Mode of Service. In a nine-week module, Army basic combat training moves a new soldier through three phases of combat-readiness following a reception week. The first installment is the Red Phase, which focuses on conditioning and team-building exercises. Next comes the White Phase, which moves into Army skills such as rappelling, marksmanship and confidence. Blue Phase continues weapons training and a Night Infiltration Course. After graduation, soldiers move into specialized tactical education called Advanced Individual Training (AIT).

I recommend: Get information on specific competency training and career selection through GoArmy.com. Find specific programs of instruction used in Army basic combat training, the Warrior Transition Course and Drill Sergeant Course through the Directorate of Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.

Get a full-enlistment or Army Reserve education, including college, while still on duty

Many Army training classes are simply college courses that are applicable to your current enlisted occupation. Access the Servicemembers Opportunity Colleges Army Degree (SOCAD) program member institutions to avoid course duplication, earn the most college credit for your military experience and take advantage of flexible course scheduling all while serving your country -- even through location reassignments.

I recommend: Find all the resources you need to begin or continue your education during enlistment using the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) catalog. Find the SOCAD degree that's right for you, and enroll in an institution that works with US Army families around the world. Reservists, visit GoArmy.com's Army Reserve Education website for a summary of benefits and useful links and information.

Take US Army training into a civilian college degree program after discharge

Military education regulating agencies and help sites can assist sorting through options for earning college credits for Army military education you've completed as part of your occupational preparation. The US Military also offers substantial support for civilian transitions and US Army education through the GI Bill and the government's Tuition Assistance program.

I recommend: Use the Military.com college search tool to determine how best to use money from your GI Bill benefits. Begin earning your degree while still enlisted, and finish up with online learning from American Military University, one of the top schools serving the Department of the Army. Consider enrolling in the GoArmyEd at Western Kentucky University, where the institution offers special tuition rates for service members, whether the student is interested in undergraduate, graduate, distance education or correspondence classes.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Entry into Army basic training requires minimum levels of physical fitness for all prospective soldiers. Talk to an Army recruiter about your current diet and exercise plan, and adjust it appropriately before your report date to prepare your body for the rigors of Army physical training.
• •  Contact a local Army recruiting office to get even more information regarding United States Army education and training.