June 14, 2025

The Best Online Colleges for Military Members and Their Families

For military members and their families, education is not just a benefit—it’s a pathway to advancement, stability, and life after service. But between deployments, relocations, and unpredictable schedules, attending a traditional on-campus college can be nearly impossible. That’s where online learning becomes a powerful solution.

Online colleges for military students offer the flexibility, support, and accreditation needed to make education accessible—whether you’re stationed overseas, transitioning to civilian life, or supporting a spouse through active duty. The best online institutions tailor their programs to the unique needs of military-connected students.

What Makes an Online College Military-Friendly?

Not all online schools are created equal. A military-friendly online college typically offers:

Flexible scheduling to accommodate irregular hours and deployments
Generous transfer credit policies for military training and experience
Dedicated military support staff for admissions, advising, and financial aid
Participation in VA education programs, including the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance
Reduced tuition rates or military-specific scholarships

These colleges go beyond convenience—they’re built to help service members succeed academically while juggling their responsibilities.

Top Online Colleges for Military and Their Families

Here are some institutions that consistently rank high for their commitment to military students:

1. American Military University (AMU)

AMU was designed with military learners in mind. With 200+ online degree and certificate programs, affordable tuition, and a strong transfer policy, AMU is a top choice for active-duty personnel.

2. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)

UMGC serves tens of thousands of military students worldwide. They offer classes year-round, accept military credits, and have extensive support for veterans and their families.

3. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

SNHU has a dedicated military support team and offers discounted tuition for service members. They also provide 24/7 access to coursework and virtual support.

4. Liberty University Online

A popular option for faith-based learners, Liberty provides generous military tuition discounts and flexible eight-week course terms.

5. Arizona State University (ASU) Online

ASU Online is highly ranked for its academic excellence and military-friendly policies. The school offers dedicated services through its Pat Tillman Veterans Center.

Benefits for Military Spouses and Dependents

Many of these schools extend their support to military spouses and dependents. Educational benefits such as MyCAA (Military Spouse Career Advancement Account) and Post-9/11 GI Bill transfers allow family members to pursue degrees and certifications affordably.

Spouses and dependents benefit from the same flexibility, making it easier to complete degrees even while moving from base to base.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online College

When comparing online colleges for military families, keep the following in mind:

Accreditation: Ensure the school is regionally accredited, which affects credit transfer and job prospects.
Support Services: Look for institutions with military advisors, career counseling, and tutoring services.
Credit Transfer: The more credits accepted from your military training or previous education, the faster you can finish.
Technology Platform: A good online portal should be user-friendly, mobile-accessible, and reliable.
Program Offerings: Choose a college that offers your desired field of study—whether that’s cybersecurity, healthcare, engineering, or education.

Online education is a practical and empowering option for those who serve and support our country. The best online colleges for military members and their families understand the demands of military life and design their programs accordingly. With the right school, military-connected students can earn degrees that support both their service and their long-term goals.

Whether you’re advancing your military career, preparing for civilian life, or helping your spouse achieve their dreams, an online degree can help you take the next step—on your terms.