Military
Military 101
The US Military is made up of six branches, each one has its own specific mission to support. Together they have over 250 different occupations and ways to serve your country.
Interested in joining?
Take one of the two paths down below.
Enlisting
Enlisted roles require a high school education.
Most enlisted careers involve hands-on training in the mechanical, transportation, human services or office fields that transfer well into civilian terms.
Basic training (also known as boot camp) helps to prepare you for all elements of service; physical, mental and emotional.
Commissioning as an Officer
Officers are the managers of the military, their roles often include planning, directing operations and making critical decisions.
This requires a college degree or equivalent.
You can become an Officer by...
Earning a commission via enlisted service
Attending one of the highly competitive service academies
Fully funded tuition (including room & board).
Graduates receive a bachelor of science degree.
Participating in a Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program
Provides Officer training for students during college in exchange for a paid college education.
After graduation the students are committed to serve either active duty or reserve for usually 5 years.
Active Duty
Full-Time Military Service
This is a full time job with set work hours (on duty) and set off time (off duty).
Reserve
Part-Time Military Service
Most services have a reserve force that is made up of members who are balancing school or a full-time civilian career while serving in the Military.
Full-Time Civilian
One weekend a month military drill*
Two weeks a year military training*
National Guard
Part-Time Military Service
The Army National Guard & Air National Guard are community based and report to their governor unless called to protect a U.S. domestic interest in times of conflict or a natural disaster.
Full-Time Civilian
One weekend a month military drill*
Two weeks a year military training*