Enhancing Sailor Healthcare Skills: The USNCC’s Partnership with Western Governors University Provides Flexible Degree Programs for Military Personnel

In 2019, the U.S. Naval Community College (USNCC) was established with the aim of providing educational opportunities to enlisted sailors in the Navy. The college has now reached initial operating capability and is focused on enhancing its offerings for military personnel. Through a partnership with Western Governors University, sailors can pursue an associate degree in health science that covers various aspects of health science management, planning, coordination, processes, and protocols.

The expertise of medical professionals is crucial within the fleet, whether serving in hospitals on land or on warships and other sea vehicles. This skill set is essential for a range of military specialties from emergency operations to medical science and humanitarian missions worldwide. The flexibility of the online degree program allows sailors to complete their education while also opening up opportunities to pursue a four-year degree with tuition assistance or GI Bill credits.

WGU’s Director of Military Engagement Julia Gage emphasized the value of this degree for sailors seeking careers in healthcare such as Hospital Corpsmen or Health Services Technicians. WGU provides a flexible pathway to earning a degree, allowing students to progress at their own pace. The establishment of USNCC was part of former Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer’s “Education for Seapower” campaign aimed at advancing intellectual development within the Navy.

In January 2021, USNCC launched its first pilot program with approximately 600 students focusing on nuclear field, cyber security, data analytics, English math and naval ethics as well as plans to offer associate degrees in up to 25 different areas by 2028. This initiative underscores the Navy’s commitment to supporting its sailors’ educational aspirations and enhancing its workforce capabilities.