Education Benefits: Excelsior Supports Military Transition

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03/06/2025 12:00pm 6 minute read

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Unlocking Education for Veterans: A Conversation with Patrick Adcock of Excelsior University

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to higher education. Veterans and military families often struggle to navigate their education benefits, understand the best institutions for their needs, and determine how to make the most of their hard-earned resources.

In this episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sat down with Patrick Adcock, Director of Military Programs at Excelsior University, to discuss the various benefits available to veterans, the importance of competency-based learning, and how Excelsior University is helping service members maximize their educational opportunities.

If you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or military spouse looking to further your education, this conversation will help you make informed decisions about your benefits and academic future.

Patrick Adcock’s Journey: From Army MP to Higher Education Advocate

Patrick Adcock

Patrick Adcock’s story is one that many veterans can relate to. Born and raised in Maryland, he joined the U.S. Army in 2007 as a 31 Bravo Military Police Officer and later deployed to RC East Afghanistan in 2012. His military career came to an unexpected halt when he was medically retired in 2014.

Like many transitioning service members, Patrick found himself asking: What’s next?

“I always joke that my transition wasn’t normal, but really, when is a military transition ever normal?” he says.

At 26 years old, Patrick faced an uncertain future. His disability benefits were delayed, his retirement pay took months to kick in, and he had no clear direction. He ultimately decided to go back to school using his GI Bill, a decision that changed the course of his career.

“I did what every good veteran does. I grew a beard and went back to school,” Patrick jokes.

However, he quickly realized that accessing and utilizing education benefits wasn’t as simple as enrolling in classes.

“I didn’t know the process. I didn’t know how to get my Certificate of Eligibility (COE). I didn’t know how to ensure my GI Bill was processed correctly,” he recalls.

After struggling to enroll at his preferred school due to administrative delays, Patrick found a quick and efficient path through Savannah Technical College. There, he pursued an Associate of Science in Business and, over time, developed a passion for helping veterans maximize their education benefits.

Excelsior University: A Top Choice for Veterans

For many in the military community, Excelsior University is a trusted name in higher education.

“It’s one of those institutions you hear about at transition fairs and career events,” Patrick explains. “But I never really looked into it until I got this opportunity.”

Now, as Director of Military Programs, Patrick works to ensure veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses understand and utilize their benefits to achieve academic success.

So what makes Excelsior one of the best universities for veterans?

1. Maximizing Transfer Credits for Military Experience

One of the biggest benefits of Excelsior University is its high transfer credit acceptance rate.

Many veterans enter higher education with prior training, certifications, and real-world experience. Instead of starting from scratch, Excelsior evaluates a veteran’s background and awards credits based on military training.

This means veterans can shorten their degree completion time and save money by not retaking coursework they’ve already mastered.

2. Competency-Based Learning for Military Students

Excelsior also embraces competency-based learning, a model that prioritizes knowledge and skills over time spent in a classroom.

For veterans, this approach is especially beneficial because it allows them to demonstrate proficiency in certain subjects and earn credit accordingly.

“Instead of forcing students to follow a rigid schedule, we assess what they already know and let them move forward at their own pace,” Patrick explains.

3. Fully Online, Flexible Learning for Service Members

Another key benefit of Excelsior University is its 100% online degree programs.

For active-duty military personnel, veterans, and spouses, online education provides the flexibility needed to balance school, work, and family responsibilities.

“Many military students move frequently, have deployments, or are balancing work and family life. The ability to earn a degree from anywhere is a huge advantage,” Patrick says.

4. Expanding Educational Support for Veterans

One of Patrick’s primary goals at Excelsior is expanding veteran support initiatives beyond traditional academics.

“We’re working on creating remote learning campuses in certain locations to help veterans maximize their housing allowance through the GI Bill,” he shares.

Excelsior is also launching community-based education sessions at VFW posts, American Legion halls, and other veteran organizations to help military members and their families better understand how to use their benefits effectively.

“A lot of veterans don’t realize their benefits extend to their spouses and dependents,” Patrick notes. “Educating them on how to navigate the VA process is just as important as offering degree programs.”

How to Maximize Your Veteran Education Benefits

If you’re a veteran or military spouse considering higher education, it’s crucial to understand how to maximize your benefits.

✅ 1. Get Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Early

Your COE is the first step to claiming your GI Bill. Without it, schools can’t process your funding. Request it from the VA before applying to schools to avoid delays.

✅ 2. Explore Additional Funding Opportunities

In addition to the GI Bill, veterans and military families may qualify for:

State education benefits
Military spouse education grants
Scholarships for veterans

These options can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

✅ 3. Choose a Military-Friendly Institution

Some universities lack experience in processing VA benefits, which can lead to delays and funding issues.

It’s essential to choose a school with a dedicated veteran support team that understands how to certify efficiently and assist students throughout their academic journey.

Final Thoughts: Investing in Your Future Through Education

When asked what sets Excelsior University apart, Patrick emphasizes:

✔ High acceptance of military transfer credits
✔ Competency-based learning for flexible degree completion
✔ 100% online programs designed for military life
✔ Personalized support for veterans and military families
✔ Commitment to educating veterans on maximizing their benefits

“Your education benefits are one of the most valuable resources available to you,” Patrick says. “Take the time to research, ask questions, and find the program that truly supports your career goals.”