Combat Education makes learning count    

Released: Feb. 26, 2004

By Dr. Mica Wells

Ramstein Education Office

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE,  Germany (USAFENS) -- Combat Education focuses on providing wider access to classes through flexible scheduling and ensuring customer satisfaction. U.S. Air Forces in Europe Commander, Gen. Robert H. "Doc" Foglesong, initiated Combat Education to remove barriers preventing airmen from pursuing advanced education.

Educational benefits are one of many reasons people join the military. Yet, once on active duty, many servicemembers become focused on the Air Force mission and put off the achievement of their educational goals. 

Ramstein hosts five on-base schools: Central Texas College, University of Maryland, University of Phoenix, University of Oklahoma and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

These schools offer 10 Vocational/Technical Certificates, 19 associate's degrees, 13 bachelor's degrees and nine master's degrees in a variety of areas. Classes are scheduled around the duty day at lunch, nights and on weekends. Terms run eight weeks to make it easier for those completing training or returning from temporary duty to begin classes. Term IV enrollment takes place March 15 to 26. Classes will run March 29 - May 21. 

Many general education and technical courses offered by the schools can be applied toward an Associate of Applied Science degree from the Community College of the Air Force. One of the top technical schools in the country, CCAF, provides an avenue for enlisted members to obtain college credit from Air Force training and job experience which can be applied to a regionally accredited technical associate's degree in their career field.

The advent of distance learning has opened educational opportunities to many who previously were excluded due to heavy deployment or erratic work schedules. Degrees and certifications can be completed in almost any area by correspondence or via the Internet. Some schools have set term dates. For others, the member can enroll at any time and have up to a year to complete a course.

Senior Airman Johnny Smith of AIRNORTH said "Distance Learning has given me the opportunity to continuously pursue my bachelor's degree no matter where I may be stationed. Even though I have (relocated) to Ramstein, I am able to continue advancing in my studies without switching universities. This is a big help because I don't have to worry about credit transfers and changes in degree plans."

College credit can also be obtained by challenging exams. As an authorized DANTES (Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Educational Support) Test Center, the Ramstein office offers exams from three test developers: College Level Examination Program, DANTES Subject Standardized Tests and Excelsior College Exams. CLEP is currently transitioning to computerized testing. 

However, CLEP will re-issue five general exams and nine subject exams in April bringing the total number of exams available to 87. These tests are free for military members. Civilians and military family members may test on a fee basis. Twenty-three certification exams can also be taken through the testing center on a fee basis. Students taking classes through distance learning may use the testing center for proctoring course exams.

Master Sgt. Dwayne Mosbey, Headquarters, USAFE said, "The credit by exam program provided me with the flexibility to complete my CCAF, spend time with my family and enhance my chance for promotion."

Air Force tuition assistance is available for the active duty member. TA currently pays 100 percent of tuition up to $250 per semester hour with a maximum of $4,500 per fiscal year. TA is available for both in-class and distance learning courses. 

At overseas locations, spouses of active duty Air Force personnel can apply for the Spouse Tuition Assistance Program. STAP pays one-half of the unmet tuition up to $300 per term. Spouses must apply each term. The next cut-off for STAP applications is March 5. 

Education counselors are available to assist with information on degree choice and availability, financial aid, veterans benefits, commissioning, Professional Military Education, Troops to Teachers Program and CCAF degrees. 

Come by the Ramstein Education Office, Bldg. 2120, Room 421 or call 480-2032 to check out the opportunities.

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