Navy Career
Development and Education

Regardless if you are getting out, getting a college degree, going for a certificate, or other education your time and experience in the Navy counts for vocational or college credits, and will looks great on any resume. And if you believe you are officer material and are considering one of the numerous officer programs, think no longer - just submit that package! Your education, career and your job go hand in hand!

The purpose of Naval Personnel Development and Career Education for Enlisted Sailors is to give you a general view of your opportunities in the Navy and beyond and to help you advance your career. For more details you'll need to talk to your supervisor, Division Chief or Career Counselor.

Navy Education

Education opportunities in the Navy are great. Whether its education online, classroom or on the job training, you have an opportunity to enhance your career more than ever before. Some available educational resources include the Navy College Center, Tuition Assistance, on the job training, GI Bill, E-Learning, Navy Knowledge Online, the numerous Navy schools, nonresident courses online and more. It's up to you to take advantage of this education.

Getting an education while you're working can be difficult sometimes but the Navy has made it easier. Make sure you take advantage of tuition assistance but keep in mind that you can also get some free education. Many installations offer free classes and workshops that are well worth the visit. You can also take some great courses online through Navy Knowledge Online.

Some of the Navy base classes are underutilized even though they may offer both personal and professional growth. Some examples are the computer classes offered on base or the support equipment classes. Many of these classes allow you to sign up on a walk-in basis.

Now some of you may be thinking, "Well, who would want to take a support equipment class?" That's an easy one to answer! You may not want to be an expert in that particular piece of support equipment, but you sure as heck would want, and better have, the knowledge as a manager in a supportability department; or if you were to get an engineering degree, you'd have the background in supportability - take those classes if you think it will benefit you!

That's just one small example of what needs to be done to expand your Navy or personal career. Unconventional yes but remember, always look for opportunities to expand your horizon. The Navy can make you an expert in more than one field and you may never know it! Don't forget to take those basic computer classes regardless of what career field you pursue. Just take a look at any job wanted ad and you'll usually see a "basic computer skills required" note in that ad! The Navy offers many free computer classes online at many Navy bases – take advantage of it!

Take Advantage of Your Military Career Experience

Some of you may be lucky enough to have your personal and professional development/ knowledge cross paths as it happened to me. My computer hobbies along with my knowledge of Naval Aviation provided me with the best tour I had in the Navy - talk about having fun going to work! Those days are over but things are even better now. Don’t forget to take a look at the brag sheet page and military records page for more information on your career.