What Can You Do With a Military Science Degree?

If you're interested in a degree program that can help you prepare for a military career, a military science program may be ideal. But what can you do with this type of credential? Which careers can you pursue after studying military science in college?

A military science degree can lead to various career paths in both civilian and military service. These programs teach history, political science, military skills, and more that are ideal for many career specializations both in and out of the U.S. military.

Students can find on-campus and online military science degree programs. Read on for further information about career paths for military science programs.

Top Careers for Military Science Degree Holders

Whether you're interested in active-duty careers or contributing to military causes as a civilian, a four-year military science program can help you reach your goals. Many military-friendly schools offer these programs. Let's consider some top careers that make use of the military training you receive as part of this college degree program.

1. Commissioned Officer

Commissioned officers are leaders within the various branches of the U.S. military. As the name suggests, commissioned officers receive their commission from the President of the United States or another high-ranking government official, such as the Secretary of Defense.

Commissioned officers differ from noncommissioned officers in that they already had a rank before receiving their commission. For this reason, they have more authority than noncommissioned officers.

2. Military Analyst

Military analysts work for government agencies or within the military. Their primary job is to gather and analyze information used in making military decisions.

These professionals often gather information regarding other militaries, including their weapons, movements, and doctrines. This information is used to inform military strategy and determine the best course of action.

3. Military Scientist

A military scientist is just what the name suggests: a scientist who works for the military. The scientist may specialize in biology, chemistry, physics, or some other science, providing expert consultation or conducting research for the military.

These scientists may perform various duties, such as working on projects to improve military operations or suggesting technological advances. They may also run tests, conduct experiments, and collect and share their findings.

4. Defense Contractor

The term 'defense contractor' is a broad title used to refer to various professionals responsible for providing services or products to the military. Those working in this non-combat role often supply ships, aircraft, vehicles, and other machinery for military use.

Various defense contractor jobs are available. Some professionals are tasked with transporting goods or carrying out the services, while others coordinate the transfer of goods and services. Still, other professionals are needed to supervise and plan these transfers.

5. Homeland Security Analyst

Homeland security analysts play a vital role in national defense. They are responsible for reviewing and analyzing potential security threats and offering recommendations on how to respond.

These professionals must have strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of security protocols. A degree in homeland security is ideal for this position but completing a military science program can also provide key skills and beneficial experience for the role.

6. Federal Law Enforcement Officer

Federal law enforcement officers, also known as federal police officers, enforce national laws and promote national security. They often work for the FBI or U.S. Marshals Service.

A military science program can provide the tactical and soft skills necessary for success in this intense role. Consider combining your military science program with a criminal justice or homeland security degree for additional qualifications.

7. Military Science Instructor

A military science instructor is responsible for training the next generation of military science students and cadets. They commonly have a military service background and may provide training for various ROTC programs throughout the country.

These professionals design lesson plans and work to get the most out of their students as they prepare them for various military careers. Those who have participated in a military science program are often excellent candidates for this role.

8. Veteran Affairs Specialist

Veteran affairs specialists work to meet the needs of military veterans and their families. They commonly provide assistance with government programs and services and supply information regarding military benefits their clients may qualify for.

Those with a military background are well-suited for this position. Consider pairing a military science program with a degree in social work.

9. Military Intelligence Specialist

Military intelligence specialists are responsible for gathering intelligence and determining the best ways to use it. They often fill a management position, overseeing efforts to analyze and distribute the most updated intelligence to military leaders.

Intelligence specialists play a key role in military planning, as military forces rely on updated intelligence to determine their next move. A military science program can help you develop the investigative skills necessary to thrive in this role.

10. Security Consultant

Security consultants can work in both public and private sectors. They identify security threats within procedures, policies, or infrastructures.

A security consultant working for the military might test or analyze weapons or other systems for vulnerabilities, design security protocols, and coordinate teams of security professionals to carry out specific tasks.

Is Military Science a Good Degree?

Whether or not military science is a good degree for you depends on your career goals and interests. Military science programs give students an excellent path into the military or a military-focused career.

If you're interested in a career with the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Marine Corps, or a civilian career related to military operations, this training program can give you the background you need for success.

What Topics Are Covered in Military Science Courses?

Students in these programs complete general education courses relative to military history, military strategy, and more. They also study physical and social sciences to round out their education.

Students may also complete coursework related to specific concentrations in the military science field. Coursework will vary; potential concentrations include:

• military law
• international security
• military technology
• resiliency
• economy

What Colleges Offer Military Science Degrees?

If you're ready to complete the credit hours required as part of a military science or military studies program, keep reading. Below, we'll look at some top schools offering this type of training program.

Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University is a medium-sized public school in Cheney, Washington. It is one of only a few schools in the country that offers a specific bachelor's degree program in military science.

The school's Bachelor of Arts in military science provides an in-depth exploration of military history, strategy, and tactics, along with politics, communication, and other social sciences. The program also offers concentrations and minors, allowing you to learn more about specific areas of interest.

University of Florida

The University of Florida is located in Gainesville, Florida. This large public university is known for being a military-friendly school, and it provides one of the top military science programs in the country.

Students in this program complete various armed forces training courses and classes relative to military leadership and operations. While this program does not lead to a degree, courses can be completed alongside your chosen degree program to supplement your major and help you find success in your chosen degree path.

Florida State University

Florida State University is a large public school located in Tallahassee, Florida. Its Department of Military Science provides a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program to prepare students to enter the military and military-related careers.

Students in this program receive qualifications to become commissioned officers in the Army, National Guard, or Army Reserve. They complete their training in addition to their chosen major, not as the major itself. That said, students can opt to pair a military science minor with their major.