Sailors’ Passion for Health Science Pays Off with New Naval Community College Degree Program

Sailors who are passionate about studying health science now have the chance to apply for admission at the U.S. Naval Community College (USNCC). The USNCC, which became fully operational in fall 2020, is part of a broader effort by the Navy to enhance enlisted educational opportunities. The college has partnered with Western Governors University to offer sailors an associate degree in health science that covers key areas such as health science management, planning, coordination, processes, and protocols.

According to Randi Cosentino, President of the USNCC, medical roles are crucial within the fleet and this expertise is essential for various military specialties and humanitarian missions. This degree program is designed to be completed entirely online, allowing sailors to further their education and potentially pursue careers as Hospital Corpsmen or Health Services Technicians.

Once sailors earn their associate degree through the USNCC, they can transfer to a four-year institution to obtain their bachelor’s degree using their tuition assistance or GI Bill credits. Julia Gage, Director of Military Engagement at Western Governors University, highlighted the flexibility and speed at which students can progress through the degree program.

The USNCC was established as part of former Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer’s “Education for Seapower” campaign aimed at enhancing the Navy’s intellectual advancement. The community college launched its first pilot program in January 2021 and plans to be fully operational by 2028, offering associate degrees in up to 25 different areas of study.