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Zeppelin34
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I was wondering if one could earn a Physics degree while on active duty. I was thinking about joining the Air Force.
Bryn Sadler said:Hi Bruce, I'm currently studying the BSc Mathematics & Physics course at the OU, happy to answer any questions you may have. I echo Jonathan's comments about the quality of the OU course materials, and the content of the Maths & Physics course in particular (at least so far as the level 1 material, I start level 2 with my next module).
ZapperZ said:If there is, think of how realistic and feasible it will be for you to take a few days off from active duty at wherever you are at, and fly off to Europe or the U.K. to sit for the exam.
Zz.
Zeppelin34 said:Sounds good in theory haha. Only in a perfect life my friend [emoji108]
ZapperZ said:That was why I pointed it out based on Jonathan's response in Post #6. There is no point in you exploring the OU option if there is a requirement that you have to show up somewhere to take an exam.
Zz.
The short answer is that it's tough. One of the ways they mitigate the impact of that is by making it maths and physics rather than just straight physics, which reduces slightly the requirements for practical experiment. In the early units there are a number of straight forward experiments that can be done with household items, there are lots of good online simulations that allow you to virtually perform the experiments, and I believe that some of the final year astrophysics modules actually get remote time on the OUs big telescope. But, in the end, it will necessarily have a much less hands-on aspect than a traditional physics degree.Zeppelin34 said:That's good to hear that Open University isn't a scam or a lousy distance learning program, when I first read about it I thought it was too good to be true. Seeing that I've been looking high and low for a accredited online physics degree program in the states at least and haven't found a single one. I know that any serious physics program requires SOME form of lab. The question I have is how does OU compensate for the lack of the in person aspect of learning?
Cod said:You may have more options depending on where you're stationed and your job
I agree. I just wanted to ensure the OP knew other options were potentially available.Vanadium 50 said:Right, but by the same token, he may not. I certainly wouldn't want to make a major life decision assuming this.
I did exactly this while in the Navy. I did it through the seaman to admiral program so that school was my full time job for 3 years. I got my degree in physics at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA which is where the east coast fleet is stationed. The university was right down the street. So it is conceivable that it could be done at a slower pace while being part of a unit or ship.Zeppelin34 said:I was wondering if one could earn a Physics degree while on active duty. I was thinking about joining the Air Force.
Yes, it is possible to earn a Physics degree while serving in the military. Many universities offer online or distance learning programs that allow students to complete their coursework remotely, making it easier to balance military duties and academic studies.
In most cases, the military will not cover the cost of your Physics degree. However, there are some programs, such as the Navy's Advanced Education Voucher program, that offer financial assistance for certain degrees, including Physics.
The length of time to earn a Physics degree while in the military will vary depending on the specific program and individual circumstances. Typically, a bachelor's degree in Physics takes four years to complete, but with online or distance learning options, it may be possible to finish sooner.
It is possible to receive academic credit for your military experience towards your Physics degree, but this will depend on the policies of your chosen university. Some schools may offer credit for military training or experience that is relevant to your degree program.
Yes, there are several potential benefits to earning a Physics degree while in the military. These may include increased job opportunities within the military, as well as the potential for a higher salary or advancement in rank. Additionally, having a degree in a STEM field like Physics can be valuable in the civilian job market after leaving the military.