How to find out:
1. Contact colleges directly: The best approach is to contact the registrar or admissions office of colleges you are interested in attending. Specifically inquire about their policies on awarding credit for prior learning, military experience, or CLEP/DSST exams (which might cover some of the material you learned in your training). Mention your Naval Nuclear Power School training and provide details of your qualifications.
2. Check for military-friendly schools: Many colleges and universities actively recruit veterans and have established processes for evaluating military training and awarding credit. Look for schools that have strong veteran support services and programs. Websites like the Military.com often have rankings and resources that can help you find these institutions.
3. American Council on Education (ACE): ACE reviews military training and recommends college credit equivalencies. They may have already evaluated some of your Naval Nuclear Power training. Check their database to see what recommendations they've made. This information can be helpful when you contact individual schools.
4. Consider CLEP/DSST exams: Depending on your experience, you might be able to earn college credit by taking CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) or DSST (DANTES Subject Standardized Tests) exams. These exams cover a wide range of subjects and could potentially cover some of the academic knowledge you gained during your training. However, it’s important to check if the specific exams align with your training and if the college you are applying to accepts these credits.
Important Considerations:
* Transferability: Credits earned through prior learning are not always transferable between institutions. Before you enroll, confirm that the credits you receive will be accepted toward your chosen degree program at your target university.
* Documentation: You will need to provide documentation of your Naval Nuclear Power training and qualifications. This might include transcripts, certificates, and possibly letters of recommendation.
* Type of credit: The type of credit awarded (e.g., general education, technical credit) might vary.
In short, while there's no single definitive answer, many colleges are willing to consider your Naval Nuclear Power experience for college credit. Proactive contact with individual schools is essential to determining the specific credits you may receive.