Exploring New Opportunities for Sailors in Health Science: The USNCC Offers a Path to Associate and Bachelor’s Degrees

Sailors looking to pursue a career in health science now have the chance to apply for admission at the U.S. Naval Community College (USNCC). The USNCC, which began operations last fall after launching in 2019, is part of a broader effort to enhance educational opportunities for enlisted sailors within the Navy. Through its partnership with Western Governors University, the college offers an associate degree in health science that covers topics 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. The degree program is designed to be completed entirely online, allowing sailors to further their education while also potentially pursuing careers as Hospital Corpsmen or Health Services Technicians.

Once sailors earn their associate degree through the USNCC, they have the opportunity to transfer to a four-year institution and obtain their bachelor’s degree using their tuition assistance or GI Bill credits. Western Governors University’s Director of Military Engagement, Julia Gage, emphasized 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 to improve 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.