Online degree programs may prepare students for healthcare careers with the U.S. Army

Online degree programs may prepare students for healthcare careers with the U.S. Army

The U.S. Army has announced that its Medical Department will begin offering the Edward Hebert Armed Forces Health Professionals Scholarship Program (HPSP) to students enrolling in accredited masters programs in healthcare, including those offered by online universities.

The HPSP covers the cost of tuition, books, equipment and most academic fees for advanced medical, dental, veterinary, psychology and optometry degree programs. Program participants will also receive a monthly stipend of $1,992 to cover living expenses and are eligible for a $20,000 signing bonus.

In return, awardees will be required to dedicate a minimum of one year for every year they received the scholarship to active duty service. After graduation, they will enter one of the army's six medical corps with the rank of captain, where they may work toward positions that offer higher salaries or residency and fellowship programs.

The scholarships aim to provide "education and training for thousands of healthcare professionals" without "assuming significant debt to finance their education," said Colonel Rafael Montagno, commander of the army's Medical Recruiting Brigade.

Online nursing programs may help those pursuing careers in healthcare learn at their own pace and take advantage of such scholarship and professional opportunities.