Your Pathway to Promotion & Leadership in the Army National Guard

Serving those who serve, in the Upper Midwest.

At the Global Military Learning Network (GMLN), we understand that for service members in the Upper Midwest, education isn't just about a diploma. It’s about promotion points, rank, career flexibility, and maximizing your military benefits.

And we have built a regional network to get you to the finish line faster.

Army National Guard: The Power of the Liberal Arts AA

Many Soldiers ask, "Why a Liberal Arts degree?" The answer is simple: It is the most efficient currency for your military career.

1. Maximize Your Promotion Points*

Under current regulations (AR 600-8-19), your civilian education is one of the fastest ways to climb the rank structure:

  • 2 Points per Semester Hour: Every credit you earn towards your AA nets you 2 promotion points.
  • The 20-Point Bonus: If you complete your degree while serving, you earn a flat 20-point bonus for your SGT or SSG board.
  • Total Potential: With a 60-credit AA degree plus the completion bonus, you are looking at 140 promotion points toward your next rank.

2. The "Bridge" Advantage (Save 1/4 of Your Degree)

Through our exclusive regional partnerships, two of our partner schools offer bridge programs that recognize your military training at an elite level.

  • The 45-Credit Path: Instead of the standard 60 credits, qualified Soldiers may only need 45 credits to graduate. This saves you months of time and fast tracks you toward a bachelor’s degree.

3. Total Flexibility for the Future

A Liberal Arts AA is the "Universal Key" to higher education.

  • Guaranteed Transfer: All 60 credits are designed to transfer seamlessly into a Bachelor’s program at a MN State University.
  • Keep Your Options Open: If you aren’t sure what you want to major in yet, the AA covers your general education requirements at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to pivot to any field, from Business to Engineering, later on.

* Promotion points referenced are based on AR 600‑8‑19 and are subject to Army review and approval. GMLN does not guarantee the awarding of promotion points or promotion eligibility.

Dedicated Support

Join our supportive military community where you’ll have a dedicated success coach to help you on your journey. 

You’ll be learning alongside other online students who share your passion, and will have regular interaction and assistance from college instructors plus access to tutoring, writing assistance, and more. 

Ready to earn your points?

Let us evaluate your Joint Services Transcript (JST) and show you exactly how many credits you need for your degree and your next promotion. (It might be closer than you think!)