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Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education

CVTI

This course is designed to be a training that familiarizes any faculty or staff member at a college or university with military and veteran culture as well as veteran-specific considerations in the areas of admissions, finances, academic and student life, and health and well-being. Our hope is that the information provided here will deepen the understanding of student veterans, resulting in a more veteran inclusive campus.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The veteran in detail
  • Introduction to military structure
  • A deeper dive into the military
  • Why do people join the service?
  • Military culture
  • Veteran stories and experiences
  • Why do people leave the service?
  • The veteran in society
  • Veterans: definitions
  • Transitioning to civilian life
  • Communicating and connecting with veterans
  • Veterans and education
  • The veteran and the admissions process
  • Introduction to admissions considerations for veterans
  • Recruiting student veterans
  • Examining admission policies for veterans
  • Partnering between two-year and four-year schools
  • Reading the veteran application
  • The veteran and financial considerations
  • Introduction to financing veteran education
  • An overview of veterans educational benefits through the va
  • Assisting veterans in understanding and applying for va benefits and other aid
  • Fafsa and css profile assistance, bah and housing costs
  • Assisting and advising veterans on financial issues after they've enrolled
  • The veteran on campus
  • Academic advising and support
  • Syncing with the rhythm of campus
  • Peer resources
  • Preparation for life after college
  • The veteran and health & wellbeing considerations
  • An introduction to veteran health and wellbeing consideration
  • Physical health
  • Social health
  • Mental health
  • Suicidality

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops an understanding of military culture and its impact on veterans
Examines the challenges and opportunities veterans face in higher education
Provides guidance on how to support veterans in the areas of admissions, finances, academics, and health
Offers insights from experts in the field of veteran higher education
Provides a comprehensive view of the veteran experience, from military service to transition to civilian life
Requires background knowledge of military culture and higher education systems

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Reviews summary

Supporting veteran success in higher education

According to students, this course is a highly valuable training for higher education professionals aiming to support veteran success. Learners appreciate its comprehensive coverage of critical areas including military culture, admissions considerations, financial aid navigation, and health and well-being considerations specific to student veterans. The content is described as providing practical tools and strategies to foster a more veteran-inclusive campus environment. It effectively bridges the gap in understanding, enabling faculty and staff to better connect and communicate with this unique student population.
Primarily beneficial for university faculty and staff.
"This course is perfectly tailored for those of us working directly with students in higher education."
"As a faculty member, I found the insights directly relevant to my interactions with student veterans."
"It felt like this training was designed specifically for my professional development in an academic setting."
Highlights specific issues like financial aid and mental health.
"Understanding VA benefits and FAFSA for veterans was incredibly helpful for my role."
"The section on mental health and suicidality offered critical insights for supporting vulnerable students."
"I appreciated the focus on navigating admissions and academic life specific to veterans."
Deepens appreciation for the veteran experience and challenges.
"The veteran stories helped me gain a profound understanding of their transition experiences."
"I feel much more empathetic towards the unique challenges student veterans face in academia."
"It truly opened my eyes to the nuances of military and veteran culture."
Offers actionable strategies for faculty and staff.
"I learned practical ways to better advise and support veterans in my role."
"The communication techniques were immediately applicable to my interactions with student veterans."
"I now have specific tools to help create a more inclusive campus environment."
Provides a wide-ranging understanding of veteran needs.
"I found the course covered all essential aspects of supporting veterans, from admissions to mental health."
"The modules on military culture and financial considerations were particularly insightful and thorough."
"It’s a complete guide for anyone in higher education working with student veterans."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education with these activities:
Review Military History
Gain a solid understanding of the historical context of military service and culture to enhance your ability to connect with and support student veterans.
Browse courses on Military History
Show steps
  • Read key texts on military history
  • Attend lectures or watch documentaries on military history
Review basic anatomy and physiology
Review how the basic structure and function of the human body relates to veteran-specific considerations, particularly those related to mobility, stamina, and recovery time.
Browse courses on Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review diagrams and descriptions of the major systems of the human body (e.g., skeletal, muscular, nervous).
  • Identify the key functions of each system and how they are related to military service and veteran experiences.
Review Military Culture
Understand the unique customs and norms within military culture will make interacting with student veterans much smoother.
Browse courses on Military Culture
Show steps
  • Read articles and books about military culture.
  • Watch documentaries about the military.
  • Attend a military cultural sensitivity training.
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Organize and review course materials
Reviewing and organizing materials helps prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Military Culture
Show steps
  • Gather course syllabus, readings, and assignments
  • Create a system for organizing notes and materials
  • Review the course materials and identify key concepts
  • Develop a study plan and schedule for the course
Create a Toolkit of Veteran Resources
Organize and expand on course materials by compiling a comprehensive toolkit of resources specifically tailored to supporting student veterans on campus.
Show steps
  • Gather relevant materials from the course and other sources
  • Organize the materials into a logical structure
Create a personal growth plan
Develop a plan that outlines the veteran's goals, challenges, and strategies for personal growth and well-being as they transition to civilian life.
Show steps
  • Reflect on the unique experiences and skills gained during military service.
  • Identify areas for personal growth and development.
  • Set realistic goals and develop a timeline for achieving them.
Connect with Student Veterans
Engage with student veterans on campus to gain first-hand insights and perspectives on their experiences, concerns, and needs.
Show steps
  • Attend student veteran organization meetings
  • Participate in campus events focused on veteran support
  • Initiate conversations with student veterans
Read "On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War" by Dave Grossman
Gain insights into the psychological impact of military service and combat on veterans.
View Stop Teaching Our Kids To Kill, Revised and... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow a copy of the book
  • Read the book in its entirety
  • Reflect on the key concepts and implications for supporting student veterans
Attend a Trauma-Informed Care Workshop
Develop skills in providing trauma-informed care to student veterans, understanding the unique challenges they face and how to create a supportive environment.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a trauma-informed care workshop
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions
  • Apply the knowledge and skills learned to interactions with student veterans
Join a support group for veterans
Connect with other veterans to share experiences, provide support, and learn from one another's perspectives.
Show steps
  • Research and find a support group that aligns with the veteran's needs and interests.
  • Attend meetings regularly and actively participate in discussions.
  • Share experiences and offer support to other veterans.
Case Study Analysis
Develop critical thinking skills through case study exercises that simulate real-world scenarios involving veterans and their unique needs in higher education.
Browse courses on Case Study Analysis
Show steps
  • Review case study materials provided in the course
  • Work independently or in groups to analyze case studies
  • Present and discuss findings with classmates
Contribute to Veteran Support Resources
Enhance your understanding of veteran-specific resources and gain practical experience by contributing to online platforms or community outreach programs supporting veterans.
Show steps
  • Identify organizations or platforms focused on veteran support
  • Offer your skills or volunteer to contribute to their initiatives

Career center

Learners who complete Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Financial Aid Advisor
As a Financial Aid Advisor, you can benefit from taking the course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education. This course provides a great deal of information on assisting veterans with financial aid and navigating VA educational benefits. Understanding the nuances of veteran education finances can help you better serve this population.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Aid Advisor
Student Success Advisor
For those pursuing the career path of Student Success Advisor, Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education can be extremely useful. This course covers topics on veteran culture, the transition to civilian life, and VA benefits as they relate to education. Such knowledge will be instrumental in providing support to student veterans on and off campus.
See salaries and explore the career path for Student Success Advisor
VA Counselor
Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education may also be useful for those seeking to become a VA Counselor. This course covers a range of topics such as veteran culture, the transition to civilian life, and mental and physical health challenges faced by veterans. The course also delves into veteran educational benefits. Such knowledge equips counselors with the tools to provide well-rounded support to veterans.
See salaries and explore the career path for VA Counselor
College Registrar
One's work as a College Registrar may directly benefit from taking the course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education. This course covers topics such as helping student veterans understand VA benefits and other forms of aid. It also dives into how to read and appraise a veteran application. By understanding the particularities of veterans' educational needs, one may excel in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for College Registrar
Faculty Member
If you wish to become a Faculty Member, you may find that the course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education can be useful. It is important for Faculty Members to understand veteran culture, as it provides context for the unique experiences that veteran students bring to the classroom. The course also discusses the transition from military to civilian life. This knowledge will help Faculty Members foster a welcoming and inclusive learning environment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Faculty Member
Student Life Director
As a Student Life Director, you may find the course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education to be useful. It covers critical topics relevant to your work such as understanding veteran culture, helping facilitate a smooth transition to campus, and knowing where to direct veterans to the appropriate campus resources. This knowledge will enable you to provide a supportive and welcoming environment for veteran students.
See salaries and explore the career path for Student Life Director
Social Worker
Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education can be useful for a Social Worker. The course goes over some of the mental and physical health challenges that veterans face transitioning to civilian life. It also discusses issues around suicidality. This course may also help you connect with veterans who are struggling and refer them to the appropriate resources.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
University Registrar
For individuals seeking to become a University Registrar, taking Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education can be beneficial. This course provides an overview of admissions considerations for veterans and how to examine admission policies. It also discusses how to read and evaluate a veteran application. With this knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to support veteran students throughout the admissions process.
See salaries and explore the career path for University Registrar
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
If your goal is to become a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, you can benefit from the course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education. It covers the challenges veterans face in the transition to civilian life and the resources available to support them. This knowledge can enhance your ability to assist veterans in developing and achieving their career and educational goals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Instructional Designer
For those interested in becoming an Instructional Designer, taking Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education can be useful. This course can help to improve your understanding of how to support veterans' learning experiences. It discusses topics such as academic advising and providing academic support. You will learn how to be supportive and inclusive of veterans through campus resources and how to connect with veterans.
See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer
Recruiter
If you desire to be a Recruiter, you can gain some useful knowledge from the course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education. It delves into topics such as recruiting student veterans, examining admission policies, and working with veterans throughout the admissions process. This knowledge can give you a competitive edge in attracting and enrolling veteran students.
See salaries and explore the career path for Recruiter
Teacher
Teachers may also benefit from taking Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education. The course covers topics such as veteran culture, military structure, and veteran experiences. This knowledge can help teachers better understand and support the needs of veteran students in their classroom. These students may benefit from a modified teaching approach to cater to their unique experiences.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
University Librarian
The course Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education is relevant to someone pursuing the role of University Librarian. It covers the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive campus environment for veterans. It also touches on how to support student veterans with research and academic advising. Gaining this knowledge will help one better serve the veteran population on campus.
See salaries and explore the career path for University Librarian
Human Resources Manager
Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education is a course that can be useful to someone seeking to be a Human Resources Manager. This course will assist in gaining a deeper understanding of veteran culture. Understanding the experiences and challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life can be of great use for any Human Resources Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager
Academic Dean
This course, Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education, can be quite useful for someone desiring to become an Academic Dean. It's key for an Academic Dean to be familiar with veterans along with their unique challenges and needs. By taking this course, one can build a foundation in understanding veteran culture, veterans' educational benefits, and how to support veterans on and off campus. This course also delves into the social, mental, and physical health challenges commonly faced by veterans. Such insight will prove useful in fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Academic Dean

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Supporting Veteran Success in Higher Education.
Cover image
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and...
Save
This official guide provides comprehensive information on the educational benefits and support services available to veterans. It is an essential reference for financial aid professionals and others who assist veterans with accessing these resources.
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and...
Paperback
$
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and...
Paperback
$
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and...
Paperback
$
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and...
Paperback
$
Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and...
Paperback
$
Cover image
Coming Home in Viet Nam
Save
Explores the psychological and spiritual challenges faced by veterans returning from war. It offers insights into the healing process and provides guidance for supporting their recovery.
Coming Home in Viet Nam
Paperback
Check
Coming Home in Viet Nam
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Witness to an Extreme Century
Save
Provides a historical overview of the experience of veterans in American culture, which can be helpful for faculty and staff who want to understand the long-term impact of military service.
Witness to an Extreme Century
Paperback
Check
Witness to an Extreme Century
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Tank Battles of the Cold War, 1948–1991
Save
Provides a comprehensive military history of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. It offers valuable context for understanding the experiences of veterans who served in these conflicts.
Tank Battles of the Cold War, 1948-1991
Hardcover
$$
Tank Battles of the Cold War 1948-1991
Audio CD
$$
Cover image
The Politics of Defense Contracting
Save
Provides a historical overview of the military-industrial complex in the United States. It offers insights into the political and economic forces that shape military spending and the experiences of veterans.
The Politics of Defense Contracting
Paperback
$$$
The Politics of Defense Contracting: The Iron...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Fundamentals of Federal Student Aid Administration...
Save
This handbook provides an overview of federal student aid programs, which can be helpful for faculty and staff who want to understand the financial aid options available to student veterans.
Fundamentals of Federal Student Aid Administration...
Paperback
Check
Fundamentals of Federal Student Aid Administration...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The National Guide to Educational Credit for...
Save
This guide provides an overview of the American Council on Education's (ACE) recommendations for evaluating military experiences for college credit, which can be helpful for faculty and staff who want to understand how to award credit to student veterans for their military training and experience.
The National Guide to Educational Credit for...
Paperback
Check
The National Guide to Educational Credit for...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Don't Lead Alone
Save
This handbook provides an overview of the Student Veterans of America (SVA), which national organization that supports student veterans.
Don't Lead Alone: Think Like a System, Act Like a...
Paperback
$$
Don't Lead Alone: Think Like a System, Act Like a...
Kindle Edition
$

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Course image
Effort
2 to 3 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Columbia University
Instructor
CVTI
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops an understanding of military culture and its impact on veterans
Examines the challenges and opportunities veterans face in higher education
Provides guidance on how to support veterans in the areas of admissions, finances, academics, and health
Offers insights from experts in the field of veteran higher education
Provides a comprehensive view of the veteran experience, from military service to transition to civilian life
Requires background knowledge of military culture and higher education systems
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