The Most Military-Supportive Colleges in the VA Pacific District – Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington
With a renewed emphasis on threats in the Pacific theater, states like Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Washington have always been in focus for every service branch. California alone has the greatest number of service members stationed in any single state in the nation.
Yet the Pacific Rim is also a place where amazing innovation and science are happening. Business is booming in Silicon Valley, the Puget Sound, and even in Las Vegas and Phoenix.
These are all factors that are tied closely to some of the most superb educational systems in the country.
From huge multi-campus public universities, to tiny, elite private schools, universities along the west coast produce graduates that power the startups changing the world today.
With a strong work ethic, extensive military training and experience behind you, and some of the most generous educational benefits in the world today, you have a great opportunity to join their ranks.
How We Identified the Most Military-Supportive Universities in the Pacific Region
First, though, you are going to need to pick a school to earn a degree with those great benefits. That’s where this list comes in.
Many schools claim to be military friendly today. But there’s no official definition of what that is. We searched high and low and came up with our own criteria to establish exactly which schools are the most military supportive in the area.
It turns out that there is a pretty straightforward way to figure out which schools are just offering lip service and which ones are genuinely serious about giving their full support and efforts to service members. And that’s by looking at the kind of cold, hard cash they are willing to put up to get you through school completely tuition free.
All schools on our list offer full Yellow Ribbon program funding to all eligible students who apply—period.
That’s important because it represents a real financial equipment to getting vets the education they deserve. Yellow Ribbon is a joint VA/college program where each participating school agree to kick in a set amount of tuition coverage for a set number of students who don’t have their tuition costs completely covered by GI Bill® benefits.
In practice, this mostly applies to anyone going to one of those elite private schools, where the tuition blows the roof off GI Bill® caps. It also picks up any out-of-state costs over and above your coverage. That gives eligible veterans a shot at attending some of the most famous and well-respected private school programs on the West Coast… free of charge.
Although this isn’t a benefit that all vets will need, it’s a great sign for a school that supports it. And it usually means their other support programs for active duty military, vets, and family members are top notch. That means you can expect service like:
- Dedicated academic and administrative counseling services to help make sense of your benefit options
- Preferential admissions and enrollment policies
- Scholarship offers for military members, vets, or their families who aren’t fully funded through other educational benefits
- Tuition discounts
- Credit awarded for military training or experience
Taken together, these are all things that can make or break your college experience. And with all the opportunities you will find in the Pacific Region, you deserve a school that will support you all the way to your dream job.
Learn more about all these benefits and the criteria we used to put this top list together.
Editor’s Choice for 2024: Top Picks for the Most Military-Supportive Colleges and Universities in the Western U.S.
Explore Your Education Options by State
ALASKA (Private)
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business
- Healthcare
- Information Technology
- Veterinary
- Trades
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $35,160
Only institution in Alaska accepting uncapped Yellow Ribbon Program benefits.
- Financial services team is highly knowledgeable in VA and GI Bill® benefits to ensure maximum benefit
- Flexible course schedules accommodate active duty service members
- Outstanding academic and personal support
Program flexibility, career-ready education programs, and a structured learning environment make Charter College a home run for service members, veterans, and their dependents looking to start or continue their educational goals. Whether you’re interested in further developing the skills you gained in the military or branching out into a new career field, Charter has what you need to succeed. Efficiency is the name of the game at Charter, which is why their programs are focused on getting students into the workplace without any wasted time. And regardless of your scheduling needs, Charter is sure to have a program that works for you, thanks to flexible course times.
ARIZONA (Public)
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Arts and Letters
- Education
- Engineering
- Informatics and Applied Sciences
- Environment
- Forestry and Natural Science
- Health and Human Services
- Honors College
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- College of Business
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $42,600 (in-state), $101,640 (out-of-state)
- Home to the only business college in the nation to have its own veteran center
- Excellent selection of online and on-campus programs for maximum convenience and flexibility
- Outstanding support services and resources offered through the Veteran and Military Services, Department of Military and Veteran Services, and Veteran Success Center
- Priority enrollment for all military students
Northern Arizona University doesn’t skimp when it comes to services and resources for its military affiliated students! The Veteran and Military Services is your hub for assistance and support throughout your academic journey and is there to help you transition from the military to college and then once again from college to a professional career. The Department of Military and Veteran Services provides resources for all its military-affiliated students. And the Veteran Success Center offers a wide range of support services. Whether you choose online or on-campus study, you’ll enjoy unmatched services and support throughout your academic journey. NAU’s business college is the only one in the nation to have its own veteran center! The FCB Veteran Student Center is dedicated to recruiting, transitioning, and developing the next generation of business school students/grads. It was ranked among the top Best for Vets: Business Schools by the Military Times!
Arizona Western College
Yuma, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- General Education
- Arts Humanities & Communication
- Business & Computers
- Education
- Healthcare & Public Safety
- Science Agriculture Engineering & Math
- Social & Behavioral Sciences
- Technology Trades & Food Science
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $11,040 (in-state, includes CA residents), $12,240 (out-of-state). For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $15,840 below the state average for public schools!
- Flexible study options for active military members at the following military installations: Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS)-Yuma and U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds
- Exciting opportunities to earn college credit for your previous military experience and education
- Arizona Western has been designated a Veteran Supportive Campus by the AZ Department of Veterans’ Service
- Veteran awards offered through the Military Legacy Scholarship and the Patriot Gold Heart Fund (financial assistance)
Arizona Western College offers the outstanding services and resources for service members and veterans that make it a stand-out winner in Arizona! You’ll appreciate the option of studying at the Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS)-Yuma and U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds (for active military). Earn college credit for your previous military experience and education (up to 30 credits!) and enjoy a supportive environment that includes services and resources through Veteran Services, the Student Veterans Club, and the Student Military and Veteran Center.
ARIZONA (Private)
Prescott College
Prescott, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Adventure education
- Arts and humanities
- Arts and letters
- Social justice studies
- Education
- Environmental studies
- Interdisciplinary studies
- Psychology and human development
- Sustainable community development
- Sustainability management
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $169,800
- Named an Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus (the first private college in AZ to receive this recognition)
- Exciting selection of online and on-campus programs offer maximum convenience and flexibility
- Outstanding resources and support for military-affiliated students offered through the Veterans Resource Center
Prescott College has long been supportive of its veteran student community, which is why for more than a decade, it’s been certified as an Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus. In fact, it was the first private college in Arizona to earn this recognition! Today, it strives to continue a high level of support for its service members, veterans, and their families. Small class sizes; an outstanding and practical-based learning approach are decidedly military-centric, providing this unique population with an environment that breeds success. Support services are also plentiful here, with the Veterans Resource Center serving as a hub for peer support, community outreach, and local, state, and national resource. The Veteran and Military Family Club serves as a community of service members, vets, and their families. Check out the many online bachelor’s degrees here in areas like Adventure Education, Social Justice Studies, Education, and more!
Arizona Christian University
Phoenix, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
Bachelor’s degrees
- Behavioral and Social Sciences
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Business Administration
- Communication Studies
- School of Education
- Political Science and Government
- Music
- Science
- Interdisciplinary Studies
Associate degrees
- Biblical and Theological Studies
- Early Childhood Education
- General Studies
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $119,400
- Yellow Ribbon Program benefits apply to all undergraduate programs
- Earn college credit for your prior military training and experience
- Ranked among the nation’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report
- Small Christian learning environment features an average class size of just 16
- Excellent selection of online and on-campus programs
Arizona Christian University is where military-affiliated students head for academic success! Offering a small, Christian learning environment; an excellent selection of online bachelor’s degrees; an average class size of just 16; and opportunities to earn college credit for your prior military training and experience are just a few of the reasons that ACU has long been a leader for military-supportive learning. And did we mention that it’s also a national leader for its academic rigor and student success? It’s ranked among the nation’s Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report!
Chamberlain University
Phoenix, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- College of Nursing
- College of Health Professions
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $81,000. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $2,640 below the state average for private schools!
- Yellow Ribbon Program benefits apply to all undergraduate programs
- Outstanding tuition discount of $250 per credit (that’s $30,000 for a bachelor’s degree) for active-duty service members and $430 per credit (that’s $51,600 for a bachelor’s degree)
- Additional military benefits include no application fee, no GRE requirement, and a fully online course delivery
- Dedicated support t and advising for military members, spouses, and veterans
Your previous experience and knowledge as a healthcare specialist in the military makes you a prime candidate for Chamberlin College of Nursing’s RN to BSN degree completion program! As an active-duty service member or military veteran, you’ll have the opportunity to take proficiency examinations for any pre-licensure BSN course that contains material you believe you’ve mastered. This means earning your BSN degree at Chamberlin may be closer than you think! And if you’re an active-duty service member, you’ll enjoy a discounted tuition rate of just $250 per credit! Veterans, retired military, spouses of an active duty/veteran/retired military, and DoD or VA employees — you’ll pay just $430 per credit at Chamberlin! Other military perks at Chamberlin include a waived application fee, a fully online program delivery, and no GRE requirement!
Devry University
Glendale / Mesa / Phoenix, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Technology
- Business
- Accounting
- Healthcare
- Liberal Arts
- Media Arts
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $61,680. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $21,960 below the state average for private schools!
- Yellow Ribbon Program benefits apply to all undergraduate programs, including certificate programs
- Outstanding tuition rate of $250 per credit (that’s about $30,000 for a bachelor’s degree) for active-duty service members and their spouses
- Option to complete your degree entirely online for maximum convenience and flexibility
- Opportunity to earn course credit for your previous military coursework and training
Offering dedicated tuition rates for active-duty service members and their families and flexible online programs, Devry University makes earning a bachelor’s degree more affordable and more convenient than ever before! Choose on-campus courses at any of one of Devry’s locations throughout the country or choose a fully online program for maximum convenience and flexibility – the choice is yours! Devry also makes it easy to fast-track your education by offering course credit for your previous military coursework and training.
Trident University International
Chandler, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- College of Education
- College of Health and Human Services
- Glenn R. Jones College of Business
- Department of Information Systems
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $49,800. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $33,840 below the state average for private schools!
- Military Education Grant provides outstanding tuition reduction rates of just $250 per credit for active-duty military, their immediate family members and just $330 per credit for retired military, veterans, and their immediate family members
- Fully online programs deliver superb convenience and flexibility
Trident’s commitment to our nation’s service members and veterans includes an outstanding tuition rate of just $330 per credit for retired military, veterans, and their immediate family members and just $250 per credit for active-duty military, their immediate family members, and DoD employees. Trident’s longstanding dedication to serving our nation’s military is clear—they’re home to more than 22,000 military and veteran alumni! But their military perks don’t end there. A generous military transfer credit policy… 100% online programs for the best in convenience and flexibility… and dedicated support and resources through the Trident Military Assistance Center (TMAC) make Trident an excellent choice for service members, veterans, and their families.
University of Phoenix
Tempe / Phoenix / Tucson, AZ
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business
- Criminal justice
- Education
- Healthcare
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Behavioral sciences
- Liberal arts
- Technology
- RN to BSN
- Health administration
- Information systems
- Criminal justice and security
- Business fundamentals
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $47,760. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $35,880 below the state average for private schools!
- Outstanding tuition rate of just $250 per credit for service members
- Fully online programs allow you to study anywhere, anytime
- Course design features taking one course at a time for maximum convenience
- Superb credit transfer policy allows you to earn college credit for your previous military experience and training
The University of Phoenix comes in strong for both its affordability and its outstanding resources and services for our nation’s military. They understand the busy life of service members, which is why they offer online classes that are available 24/7 to meet your specific schedule and military duties. Learn anywhere, even overseas! Though you’ll be learning online, you’ll never feel alone, thanks to around-the-clock support and resources. As a student here, you’ll complete just one course at a time, thereby allowing you to balance your military life and your education with ease. Best of all, if you’re a service member, you’ll pay just $250 per credit! You’ll also love the University of Phoenix’s generous credit transfer program that allows you to earn college credits for your previous military experience and training. Check out their BS in Management degree – you can earn up to 90 credits toward this program based on your military experience and training.
CALIFORNIA (Public)
University of Maryland Global Campus
San Diego, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business & Management
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Education & Teaching
- Healthcare & Science
- IT & Computer Science
- Liberal Arts & Communication
- Public Safety
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $37,440 (in-state), $59,880 (out-of-state). Only public institution in California accepting Yellow Ribbon Program benefits.
- Outstanding tuition rate of just $250 per credit for active-duty service members, reservists, Guardsmen, and their spouses and children
- Generous credit transfer policy allows you to earn college credit for your previous military experience and training
- Additional financial assistance available through Veterans Assistance Fund, the Pillars of Strength Scholarship program and the UMGC-NMFA Scholarship for Military Spouses
- Study online or in a hybrid format through one UMGC’s 170+ global locations
The University of Maryland Global Campus’ commitment to our nation’s military comes complete with a superb tuition rate of just $250 per credit for active-duty service members, reservists, Guardsmen, and their spouses and children! UMGC also provides opportunities to fast-track your degree by earning college credit for your previous military experience and training. Connect with the military advising team and learn about the many opportunities you’ll have to earn your degree at UMGC! For example, the school’s One2One Mentorship program provides individualized support to veterans, service members, and their families. As a student here, you’ll have the opportunity to complete your degree through a fully online delivery or through a hybrid format that includes studying at one of their 170+ global locations.
CALIFORNIA (Private)
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- College of Letters Arts and Sciences
- School of Accounting
- School of Architecture
- School of Art and Design
- School of Business
- School of Cinematic Arts
- School for Communication and Journalism
- School of Dance
- School of Dentistry of USC
- School of Dramatic Arts
- School of Education
- School of Engineering
- School of Gerontology
- School of Law
- School of Medicine of USC
- School of Music
- Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
- School of Pharmacy
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy
- School of Public Policy
- USC School of Social Work
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $253,920
- Serving our nation’s military for more than 100 years
- Today, USC is a leading institution for military research, technologies, training, and support for the U.S military and consistently ranks among the top ten private research universities in DoD-sponsored research
- Engelstad Foundation Scholarship for Veterans at USC provides funds to student veterans who have exhausted their VA benefits or have less than 100% eligibility for their VA benefits
The University of Southern California has been supporting our nation’s military for more than 100 years! In fact, USC first served as a training school during both WWI and WWII! Today, it’s home to a growing population of student service members and vets who enjoy the school’s superb selection of services and resources. The Veterans Resource Center supports the school’s veteran community by providing academic, financial, and career development services. Today, USC serves as a leading institution for military research, technologies, training, and support for the U.S military and consistently ranks among the top ten private research universities in DoD-sponsored research. Just some of the centers and institutes in the university system include the Information Sciences Institute, the Institute for Creative Technologies (DoD-sponsored University Affiliated Research Center that works in collaboration with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory), and the USC Center for Innovation and Research on Veterans & Military Families (CIR). The Engelstad Foundation Scholarship for Veterans at USC provides funds to student veterans who have exhausted their VA benefits or have less than 100% eligibility for their VA benefits.
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business School
- College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $249,600
- Home to more than 550 enrolled vets, service members, and their dependents
- Ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges for Veterans list in 2022
- Serving student veterans and service members for more than 75 years
Pepperdine University enjoys a reputation as a leader in higher education for our nation’s veterans, even earning a ranking among the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges for Veterans list in 2022! Pepperdine has been helping veterans and their families for more than 75 years. In fact, Pepperdine has long attributed some of its meteoric growth to its student service member community. Today, the university is home to more than 550 enrolled vets, service members, and their dependents and a host of organizations and resources that ensure this special population is always fully supported.
Chapman University
Orange, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- College of Arts Humanities & Social Sciences
- School of Business & Economics
- School of Communication
- College of Educational Studies
- School of Engineering
- College of Film and Media Arts
- College of Health and Behavioral Sciences
- School of Law
- College of Performing Arts
- School of Pharmacy
- College of Science & Technology
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $241,200
- The Princeton Review calls Chapman “one of the nation’s best institutions for undergraduate education”
- Consistently ranked among the top 15% of colleges and universities in America
Chapman University is where you’ll find a military-supportive learning environment that’s designed for student success! Offering a personalized educational experience; a small, student-centered academic environment; and progressive areas of study like peace studies, philosophy, political science, screenwriting, and religious studies, Chapman offers the best in undergraduate education for today’s military students! It’s little wonder why it’s consistently ranked among the top 15% of colleges and universities in America!
Occidental College
Los Angeles, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- American studies
- Art and art history
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Black studies
- Chemistry
- Chinese studies
- Classical studies
- Cognitive science
- Comparative studies in literature and culture
- Computer science
- Critical theory and social justice
- Diplomacy and world affairs
- East Asian studies
- Economics
- Education
- English
- Environmental science
- Food studies
- French studies
- Gender women and sexuality studies
- Geology
- German studies
- Group language
- History
- Interdisciplinary writing
- Japanese studies
- Kinesiology
- Latino/a and Latin American studies
- Linguistics
- Marine biology
- Mathematics
- Media arts and culture
- Music
- Neuroscience
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Politics
- Psychology
- Public health
- Religious studies
- Russian studies
- Sociology
- Spanish studies
- Theatre and performance studies
- Urban and environmental policy
- Writing and rhetoric
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $239,880
- Participant of the Ahmanson Foundation Veteran Initiative, which provides funding to 24 private colleges in California to allow student vets to graduate with little to no student debt.
- Home to the New Veterans Program, which provides outstanding resources and support for veteran students
- Outstanding selection of progressive majors and minors in areas like classical studies, cognitive science, diplomacy & world affairs, and food studies
Occidental College’s support for its student service members and veterans is better than ever! In Fall 2019, Occidental launched its Veterans Program, a groundbreaking initiative that includes unmatched support for student veterans as they make the transition from the military to college. This initiative includes a host of resources and services, including affordable, off-campus housing for student veterans. Occidental’s location in Los Angeles, home to one of the nation’s largest regional populations of veterans, makes it a popular institution for vets looking to return to college. Occidental is a participant of the Ahmanson Foundation Veteran Initiative, which provides funding to 24 private colleges in California to allow student vets to graduate with little to no student debt.
California College of the Arts
Oakland / San Francisco, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Architecture
- Design
- Fine arts
- Humanities and Sciences
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $215,400
- Outstanding selection of Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in the creative arts
- Superb support and guidance offered for all military-affiliated students
- Home to state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty
California College of the Arts is all about support for its military-affiliated students, which is why you’ll find a comprehensive network of services and resources aimed at this unique student population. This top-ranking art and design college is also where you’ll find extraordinary training leading to a career in the arts. State-of-the-art facilities, a renowned faculty, and a centralized location in the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area make this school a sure bet for service members, veterans, and their dependents who want to prepare for a career in architecture, ceramics, fashion design, graphic design, and more.
University of the Pacific
Stockton, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of Dentistry
- Benerd College
- College of the Pacific
- Conservatory of Music
- School of Business
- School of Law
- School of Engineering and Computer Science
- School of Health Sciences
- School of Pharmacy
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $211,680
- Yellow Ribbon Program benefits apply to all undergraduate programs
- Superb resources and services offered through the Military and Veterans Student Center
- Opportunities to connect with your peers and gain access to a supportive network through the Student Veteran Organization
University of the Pacific’s Military and Veterans Student Center is proof that the university’s dedication to its support of military-affiliated students is unmatched. Here, you’ll find an outstanding array of services and resources that work toward a common goal of producing successful students who make successful grads. As a military-affiliated student of the University of the Pacific, you’ll also enjoy exciting opportunities to get involved through organizations like the Student Veteran Organization, which offers a network of support for service members, vets, and their dependents. Stockton, Sacramento, and San Francisco – the school’s campus sites offer convenience and flexibility wherever you are in CA!
Otis College of Art and Design
Los Angeles, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Communication arts
- Digital media
- Environmental design
- Fashion design
- Fine arts
- Product design
- Toy design
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $196,440
- Student Veteran Committee features military-dedicated academic and social programs
- A growing veteran student population is supported by a dedicated faculty and staff that includes no less than seven veteran alumni
- Choose from seven majors and 17 minors in the applied arts, media, and design
The Otis College of Art and Design is a longtime supporter its student veterans and service members. And as of 2022, it was home to no less than 15 veteran students. We love the veteran alumni here including Dr. Carol Branch, the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs who works closely with the student veteran community and oversees the Student Veteran Committee – home to dedicated academic and social programs. Whether you’re a current service member or a veteran looking to change careers or build upon your current one, you’ll love Otis College’s exciting selection of degrees in the applied arts, media, and design. Choose from seven majors and 17 minors for a personalized program designed to meet you specific needs and interests!
Dominican University of California
San Rafael, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of Liberal Arts and Education
- School of Business
- School of Health and Natural Sciences
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $194,400
- Yellow Ribbon Program benefits apply to all undergraduate programs
- Students who hold or have held a nursing occupation in the military may qualify for advanced placement in the school’s undergraduate traditional nursing program
- Superb support services offered through the Student Success Center include mentoring, coaching, and tutoring assistance
- On-campus organizations include the Student Veteran Organization and the local chapter of the Student Veterans of America
The Dominican University of California serves as an educational beacon for military-affiliated students looking to build upon their military career or branch out into a new one after their military service had ended. You’ll love the support offered through on-campus organizations like the Dominican University Student Veteran Organization and the local chapter of the Student Veterans of America and the academic support offered through the Student Success Center. Peer mentors, integrative coaching, and the creation of a digital portfolio are just a few of the perks of being a student of Dominican University of California. And if you hold or have held a nursing occupation in the military, you may qualify for advanced placement in the school’s undergraduate traditional nursing program!
California Lutheran University
Thousand Oaks, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- College of Arts & Sciences
- School of Management
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $189,960
- Ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the West for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report in 2021
- Outstanding military-focused resources and services available through the Ahmanson Veterans Resource Office
- Vet NETAlly serves as a network of faculty, staff, and administrators who works to create a welcoming campus environment for vets, service members, and their families
California Lutheran University is where military members, veterans, and their families realize their educational goals! Here you may earn college credit for your prior military training and experience. The school’s military resources are all in one central location – the Ahmanson Veterans Resource Office, which is led by a veteran’s coordinator. And the school’s Vet NETAlly program features a network of faculty, staff, and administrators who ensure military-affiliated students enjoy a welcoming campus environment. These are just some of the reasons why California Lutheran was ranked among the Best Regional Universities in the West for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report in 2021!
Menlo College
Atherton, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Human Resource Management
- International Management
- Management
- Marketing
- Psychology
- Real Estate
- Sports Management
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $186,480
- Ranked among the Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report
- Strong liberal arts bachelor’s degree offerings in areas like human resource management, international management, accounting, and financing
Menlo College is where military-affiliated students head for the best in support and the finest liberal arts education! Whether your career goals include a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, human resource management, entrepreneurship, international management, sports management, or beyond, you’ll find a program that meets your specific needs as a military-affiliated student. Menlo is a proud partner of the Yellow Ribbon Program and recognized among the Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News & World Report!
Biola University
La Mirada, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Cook School of Intercultural Studies
- Crowell School of Business
- Rosemead School of Psychology
- School of Cinema and Media Arts
- School of Education
- School of Fine Arts and Communication
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- School of Science Technology and Health
- Talbot School of Theology
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $177,480
- Ranked among Americas Top Colleges by Forbes
- Convenient online degree programs ensure outstanding flexibility for today’s military students
- Outstanding support and guidance throughout your academic journey by the school’s Military Educational Benefits Specialist
Biola University comes with an outstanding online learning platform that ensures today’s military students have what they need to success – regardless of where they are in the world! Conveniently structured in a seven-week course format and ideally situated in a small, Christian learning environment, Biola’s online degree programs provide comprehensive and dynamic courses of study in areas like biblical ministries, business management, and applied psychology. You’re sure to love the dedicated Christian faculty that teaches these programs – they’re the same high-quality teachers as you’ll find on-campus and the school’s solid academic reputation that includes national accolades by esteemed publications like Forbes and U.S. News & World Report. Let the school’s Military Educational Benefits Specialist help you navigate your VA benefits and find a course of study that’s right for you!
Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art
Van Nuys, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- BFA Fine Art Degree
- Fine Art Certificate
- BFA Entertainment Art Degree
- Entertainment Art Certificate
- Intensive Training Tracks
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $126,480
- Three-year intensive bachelor’s degree programs are ideally designed for military students who want an accelerated course of study
- Academy is recognized as a premier institution for producing contemporary figurative and entertainment artis
The Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art features Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees that boast outstanding convenience and flexibility for today’s military students! These three-year, intensive programs include seasoned instructors who are working artists and no less than eighteen months of rigorous training, followed by a period of art mastery where you’ll learn to develop your artistic expression. Complete your fine arts bachelor’s degree through a school that’s now recognized as a premier institution for producing contemporary figurative and entertainment artists!
Academy of Art University
San Francisco, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Acting
- Advertising
- Animation & Visual Effects
- Architecture
- Art Education
- Art History
- Communications & Media Technologies
- Fashion
- Fine Art
- Game Development
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Industrial Design
- Interaction & UI/UX Design
- Interior Architecture & Design
- Jewelry & Metal Arts
- Landscape Architecture
- Motion Pictures & Television
- Music Production & Sound Design for Visual Media
- Photography
- Visual Development
- Writing for Film
- Television & Digital Media
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $102,960. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $9,120 below the state average for private schools!
- Military Scholarship Program, available to service members, includes a total gift of $9,492 per student for 12 units (4 total semesters)
- Waived application fee for all service members
- Outstanding flexibility and convenience offered through dozens of fully online degree programs
The Academy of Art University comes in strong for its dedicated to our nation’s military through its Military Scholarship. This scholarship program, available to service members, includes a total gift of $9,492 per student for 12 units (4 total semesters). Other military-centric resources and services offered through the Academy of Art include a dedicated Veterans Resource Center, your choice of dozens of undergraduate degrees that are offered fully online, and no application fee.
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Medicine
- Graphic design
- Business and legal studies
- Information technology
- Distance education
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $93,360. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $18,720 below the state average for private schools!
- Superb career assistance resources and services
- Generous credit transfer policy includes earning college credits through experiential learning
Platt College understands the needs of our nation’s military, which is why they are proud participants of the Yellow Ribbon Program. Other services and resources available to students here include an active career services department that offers career planning and assistance… free tutoring services… and a generous credit transfer policy that includes earning credit through experiential learning.
Beverly Hills Design Institute
Beverly Hills, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Department of Fashion Design
- Department of Pattern Design
- Department of ESL
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $92,880. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $19,200 below the state average for private schools!
The Beverly Hills Design Institute is proud to be member of the Yellow Ribbon Program! All eligible students can receive benefits through this program, which covers the remaining tuition that the Post-9/11 GI Bill® doesn’t cover (for those qualifying for maximum benefits). There’s no better place to earn a fashion degree than the Beverly Hills Design Institute, located in the Luxury Capital of the World!
Mount St. Mary’s University
Los Angeles, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- American Studies
- Applied Ethics
- Art
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Business Administration
- Chemistry
- Child Development
- Criminology
- Education
- English
- Film and Media
- Film
- Media
- Social Justice
- Geospatial Criminology
- Global Politics
- Healthcare Policy
- History
- Journalism and New Media
- Language and Culture
- Liberal Studies
- Mathematics
- Music
- Nursing
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Professional Photography
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Spanish and Business Administration
- Spanish Studies
- Women and Gender Studies
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $91,440. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $20,640 below the state average for private schools!
- Fast-track your college education by earning college credit from your previous military training and education
- Ahmanson Veteran’s Scholarship Initiative offers $2,000+ for qualifying veterans based on need
- Committed to recruiting, retaining, educating, and graduating student-veterans through the One More Veteran pledge
Mount St. Mary’s dedication to our nation’s military starts with outstanding resources and services available through the Veteran’s Student Life Program Coordinator office. Mount St. Mary’s is also one of 24 California colleges and universities to sign the One More Veteran pledge, which reflects their commitment to recruiting, retaining, educating, and graduating student-veterans. In addition to being a proud participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program, Mount St. Mary’s also offers the Ahmanson Veteran’s Scholarship Initiative ($2,000 or more based on needs). And your previous military experience and training here can earn you up to 15 college credits! Even better news— military services and support at Mount St. Mary’s will only get better in the coming years, thanks to a two-year, $200,000 grant from the Carol Moss Foundation to establish an office of veteran and military student services that will provide unmatched support and advocacy for veterans and military-affiliated students transitioning to college life.
NewSchool of Architecture and Design
San Diego, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- School of Architecture and Construction Management
- School of Design
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $91,080. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $21,000 below the state average for private schools!
- 15% tuition reduction for active duty, reservists, veterans, and their spouses – that’s a savings of about $13,662 for a bachelor’s degree
- Proud participant of the VA Student Work-Study Allowance Program, which offers an additional allowance to veteran students who perform services related to VA activities on campus and in their community
- Superb resources, support, and guidance available through the Veterans Resource Center
The NewSchool of Architecture and Design backs up their dedication to our nation’s military by offering a 15% tuition reduction for active duty, reservists, veterans, and their spouses! The school’s Veterans Resource Center is where you’ll receive outstanding support and guidance throughout your academic journey and meet and interact with other service members and veterans in a supportive environment. In addition to participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program, NewSchool is proud to be part of the VA Student Work-Study Allowance Program, which offers an additional tuition allowance to veteran students who perform services related to VA activities on campus and in their community.
InterCoast Colleges
Burbank / Carson / Elk Grove / Riverside / Santa Ana / West Covina, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- AAS Substance Use Disorder
- AAS Degree Business Administration
- AAS Degree Cyber Security
- BAS Addiction Studies
- Certificate Programs (business, trades, medical, mental health/counseling)
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $81,600. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $30,480 below the state average for private schools!
- Choose among a number of hybrid programs for the best in flexibility and convenience
- Flexible schedule options thanks to morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend classes
Whether your academic interests lie in the medical, legal, business, computer, or technology fields, InterCoast College has a program for you that’s backed by the Yellow Ribbon Program! Other benefits of attending InterCoast that are decidedly military-centric include career assistance… morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend classes… small class sizes… professional certification programs… and real-world training.
Musicians Institute
Hollywood, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Music performance
- Music production and recording
- Music industry
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $80,800. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $31,280 below the state average for private schools!
- Exciting, fully online programs designed to accommodate your busy military and personal life
The Musicians Institute is a proud participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program! Pursue your passion in music while taking advantage of your VA benefits! Study on-site at their dynamic Hollywood campus or online if you need a more flexible course of study to accommodate your busy military and personal life. Earn a certificate or AA/AS degree in programs like Bass, Drums, Guitar, Keyboard, Independent Artist, Vocal, Studio Recording Technology, DJ Performance & Production, Songwriting, Artist/Producer/Entrepreneur, and Music Business, or earn a bachelor’s in Songwriting and Production through a fully online course delivery!
Laurus College
San Luis Obispo, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Audio video production
- Business systems
- Digital arts and computer animation
- IT systems management
- Medical billing and coding
- Web design and development
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $75,000. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $37,080 below the state average for private schools!
- Superb flexibility includes your choice of on-site, online, or hybrid courses
Laurus College’s career-focused programs provide service members and veterans with an outstanding opportunity to pursue a new career or build upon the skills they gained during their time in the military. Thanks to outstanding course flexibility that includes your choice of on-campus courses at one of the school’s four locations or fully online courses, it’s never been easier to earn that degree you’ve been thinking about. We love Laurus’ fully integrated virtual learning environment that allows distance-based learners to enjoy live, real-time interaction or view recorded classes for maximum convenience.
California Institute of Arts and Technology
National City / San Diego, CA
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $73,200. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $38,880 below the state average for private schools!
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Networking
- Cloud Administration
- Coding
- Data Analytics
- Outstanding tuition rate for active-duty military (active-duty TA rate) of $250 per credit (that’s about $30,000 for a bachelor’s degree)
- Extensive IT curriculum covers 24 industry certifications for unmatched real-world preparation
The California Institute of Arts and Technology is dedicated to providing the most accessible, flexible learning experience for our nation’s military, both active-duty and veterans. At CIAT, you’ll be part of a new educational approach that allows all students to graduate with a portfolio of innovative IT experience. This type of pioneering approach to education produces graduates who are well-positioned to immediately qualify for in-demand IT jobs. Many of the program features here are decidedly military-centric. Hands-on training, small class sizes, live online courses, and excellent career and job placement support make CIAT an outstanding option whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life or you’re building on your current military skills. You’ll have access to more than 24 industry certifications here that come with outstanding support like no exam fees, unlimited exam attempts, and test preparation software and workshops.
Pacific Oaks College
Pasadena, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Early Childhood Education
- Education
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Human Development
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Business and Management
- Teacher Credentialing and Education Degree Programs
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $72,960. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $39,120 below the state average for private schools!
- Outstanding undergraduate tuition rate of just $250 per credit for all active-duty service members (that’s about $30,000 for a bachelor’s degree)
- Just $360 per credit for upper division undergraduate courses
- Earn up to 24 college credits for your prior military training and experience
Pacific Oaks College offers superb military and veteran tuition rates that are hard to beat! Active-duty service members here enjoy a $250 per credit undergraduate rate, while veterans and dependents pay $360 per credit for lower division undergraduate courses and $685 per credit for upper division undergraduate courses. Plus, at Pacific Oaks College, you may be able to fast-track your education by earning college credit for your prior military experience and training – up to 24 credits! The online programs here are ideally designed to accommodate the busy lives of today’s students
Sofia University
Palo Alto / Costa Mesa, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business Programs
- Psychology
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $72,000. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $40,080 below the state average for private schools!
- Honoring Heroes Scholarship program awards veterans up to $3,000 toward their tuition expenses
- Transfer up to 90 college credits toward a BA in Psychology or BS in Business
Sofia University knows what today’s military students need for success, and their Admissions counselors are there to ensure you’re taking full advantage of your VA benefits and the school’s outstanding resources. Apply for the Honoring Heroes Scholarship here if you’re a veteran using GI Bill® benefits and you could be awarded up to $3,000 to assist with any out-of-pocket tuition expenses. Sofia’s online bachelor completion programs in either psychology or business are the ideal fit for service members or veterans who have already completed up to 90 college credits!
Palo Alto University
Palo Alto, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Counseling
- Psychology
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $71,160. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $40,920 below the state average for private schools!
- Student Veteran Organization provides PAU’s military veteran students with outstanding resources, support, and advocacy to ensure long-term success as both a student and graduate
- Dedicated Veteran and Military Student Services provides unmatched guidance and support throughout your academic journey
Palo Alto University’s support for its military-affiliated students is unmatched! The university’s Veteran and Military Student Services office ensures that all student veterans, reservists, Guardsmen, Active Duty, and their dependents take full advantage of their education benefits. It’s also home to a number of on- and off-campus resources deigned to help transition from military life to student life. And if you’re called to duty, they’ll ensure you receive a full refund of your tuition without fear of financial penalty.
National University
San Diego, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Teaching and education
- Business and marketing
- Healthcare and nursing
- Social sciences and psychology
- Engineering and technology
- Arts and humanities
- Criminal justice and law
- Science and math
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $66,600. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $45,480 below the state average for private schools!
- 25% discount for veterans and their family members who don’t have access to the Post-9/11 GI Bill® or Fry Scholarship
- Winner of the prestigious Ray Ehrensberger Award for Institutional Excellence in Military Education
- Options to complete your degree online or at one of the many military bases nationwide
No e-book and technology fees for active-duty military students is just the beginning of the commitment that National University has made to the success of our nation’s service members! National University’s 75+ degree programs are designed with our nation’s military in mind, which is why they were awarded the prestigious Ray Ehrensberger Award for Institutional Excellence in Military Education! Choose National University and you’ll have the option of completing your degree online or on-site at select military bases nationwide. You’ll love the one-month class format, which allows you to better control the pace at which you complete your degree. As a student of National, you may also be eligible for their Military Tuition Scholarship, a $2,500 award available to military personnel and their dependents, or the Veterans Victory Scholarship, a $5,000 award for veterans based on academic or community achievement and financial need.
Westcliff University
Irvine, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business
- Technology and engineering
- Education
- Law
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $66,000. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $46,080 below the state average for private schools!
- Earn your bachelor’s degree in less than four years
- Choose from live online and/or on-campus courses for the best in flexibility and convenience
Earn your bachelor’s degree in just 3.3 years at Westcliff University and enjoy the school’s exciting military benefits and resources along the way! Choose from online and on-campus courses, receive personalized learning to develop career-ready skills, and receive outstanding mentorship from a dedicated faculty and program advisors at Westcliff. All eligible students receive Yellow Ribbon Program benefits at Westcliff!
Antioch University Los Angeles
Culver City, CA
Departments and Programs Eligible for Uncapped Benefits and Accepting All Eligible Students Under the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- Business
- Healthcare
- Education
- Leadership
Approximate bachelor’s degree cost for students without military benefits: $64,200. For a full bachelor’s degree, that works out to a total cost savings of $47,880 below the state average for private schools!
- Choose from online, low-residency, or online courses
- Collaborative, hands-on learning environment
- Transfer up to 75 credits from your previous military experience and education toward an online bachelor’s degree
Antioch University is dedicated to making a college education more accessible to our nation’s military. They boast hands-on learning experiences and collaborative learning environments designed to enhance the leadership and management skills necessary for success. Antioch’s online programs, including their transfer-friendly bachelor’s completion programs (your previous experience and education can earn you up to 75 credits toward your online bachelor’s degree!), are targeted at today’s service members and veterans whose busy lives demand convenience and flexibility.