CF vs. random post-secondary

[armyvern]

Does that mean a full time NCM member can get an undergraduate degree without having to upgrade to officer?  Because I've been looking and everything hints that, yes the CF will pay for your education, but you have to be an officer for a certain amount of years afterwards.  I understand why you have to work so many years once you get your degree, it's just if they believe in bettering everyones education why do they only let officers/ reserve [part-time] go to RMC?  Shouldn't it be open to everyone with the right prerequisites?

Yes. We have PhD's in the enlisted ranks. You will not "owe time" if you are already enlisted.

Those that "owe time" have had the CF pay for their education outright and are having their costs covered on the condition that they Commission. They are attending post-secondary full-time for the great part. Whereas you, as an enlisted rank would generally be completeing your degree on your own time. You pay for it -- and once you "pass", the CF will reimburse you your cost for the course.

You do NOT have to become Commissioned if you don't want to be (if it's even offered to you -- there is more to being an Officer than a degree after all).

 

[Rowshambow]

Yes (as others have posted) it is totally realistic, I started to get my Uni (part time at Athabasca) while in the ranks, I decided that I wanted to CFR so I did that. No you do not have to become an Officer if you have a degree!
Is it harder to get a degree now..yes, I have been out of school a long time and trying to get back into it is a little hard, also doing the courses part time by DL (distance learning) can also be trying. I have 2 young girls, a wife that nags, and a bulldog that can be annoying, so time is limited. Would I change any of it, NO WAY!!! I love my life, love the things I have done (as an NCM) and look forward to going forward in my new ranks. The only regret I have is that I didn't do schooling while it was all still fresh in my mind.
An NCM is an excellent choice, hey we need worker bees, but IN MY OWN OPINION, schooling is worth it's weight in gold! Right now maybe you don't see the benefits, but in the future you might! Also I think your opinions might change once you do find the right girl (in regards to family) hehe
Good luck, PM if you need anything!

 

[armyvern]

A wife that actually nags?? You must be one of the few!!  >

 

[deej96]

Judging by what you guys have said, I've decided to try for a degree before joining the forces.  I figure, although it isn't my favorite choice to go to university, it will better my future...and hey, I might learn a thing or two...who knows...
Thanks everyone for all you comments, they have helped me majorly!

 

[medaid]

deej where you located? Your profile's blank  :tsktsk: now if you're anywhere close to Vancouver, PM me and we can sort through any more questions you may have and remember CFRC is your best friend ;D

 

[dimsum]

Why? 

You can study, get a degree and serve in the Forces at the same time.  That is one of the great things about our Primary Reserve element - there are literally thousands of people doing the same thing right now. 

+1. 

After grad, I was between choosing a random job (whatever BA Bus Admin grads do) or flying out of Sioux Lookout/Fort McMurray doing pop and chips runs like some of my friends...both not really my cup of tea.  Luckily I was in the Reserves at the time, had some $ saved up through my summer training and had a guaranteed job waiting for me out west  ;D

Plus, it was a quick CT away to the Air Force