9 top college majors for veterans

Discover 9 of the best college majors for veterans. Learn which degrees align with military skills and lead to stable, high-demand careers

Starting college after military service often means translating hard-earned skills, such as leadership, discipline, technical training, into a civilian career. Veterans carry strengths that many employers value: teamwork, adaptability, reliability, and the ability to thrive under pressure.

For veterans, the smartest majors combine existing skills with strong job prospects, offering both financial stability and a sense of purpose. These choices aren’t just about employment. They're also about turning service into a sustainable, rewarding civilian career.

From high-tech roles to healthcare, and from business management to public service, the right academic path can amplify the skills gained in uniform.

Here are 9 of the best majors for veterans.

2 / 10

Computer science or information technology

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According to the University of the Cumberlands, veterans often thrive in software development, network administration, and IT support roles because the discipline, problem-solving skills, and technical aptitude gained during service align well with what tech firms need.

3 / 10

Business administration or management

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A business degree leverages leadership and organizational skills many veterans bring from the military. According to Pacific University, veterans’ stewardship, communication, and teamwork skills are valuable whether they pursue management roles or start their own ventures.

4 / 10

Engineering (electrical, mechanical, civil, aerospace)

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Engineering provides a direct bridge from technical military roles to high-demand civilian careers. According to the University of the Cumberlands, fields such as civil or aerospace engineering align well with discipline and problem-solving backgrounds.

5 / 10

Healthcare or health sciences

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Studying health sciences can be a natural extension of military medical experience or a renewed sense of purpose in serving people. According to Pacific University, health-related majors offer a wide range of options, making them a solid choice for veterans seeking stable, impactful civilian careers.

6 / 10

Cybersecurity / information security

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Cybersecurity gives veterans a chance to apply security-minded training in a booming civilian domain. According to the University of the Cumberlands, cybersecurity programs match well with military backgrounds in security, technical systems, or discipline-heavy operations.

7 / 10

Criminal justice or public safety

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For veterans familiar with structure, law enforcement, or protective roles, a criminal justice degree can pave a path toward policing, corrections, or federal law-enforcement work. Pacific University notes that this major aligns with veterans’ experience in security, teamwork, and discipline.

8 / 10

Human resources or finance

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Roles in HR or finance benefit from veterans’ organizational discipline, attention to detail, and integrity. According to the University of the Cumberlands, finance and HR management degrees translate well from military skills, and can offer stable careers in business operations, financial analysis, or personnel management.

9 / 10

Psychology or social work

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Veterans sometimes choose psychology or social work to help fellow service members or civilians, offering mental health support, counseling, or community services. According to Pacific University, psychology and social work are strong options for those seeking meaningful, service-oriented careers in civilian life.

10 / 10

Education and teaching

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An education degree can channel military leadership and communication skills into classrooms or adult-education contexts. The University of the Cumberlands says that education is recommended for veterans aiming to make an impact through teaching and mentorship.