• Open to both veteran and non-veteran students
  • Explores the human experience of military conflict across history and cultures
  • Focuses on leadership development and interdisciplinary perspective
  • Steps to apply to Saint Leo University
  • Degree program specifics: frequently asked questions

Introducing the Online Bachelor's Degree in Veteran Studies

Saint Leo University is proud to launch the groundbreaking online Bachelor's degree in Veteran Studies. This fall, we welcome both veteran and non-veteran students from around the world to join this unique opportunity.

Exploring the Intricacies of Military Service

This unique interdisciplinary program delves deep into the human experience of military conflict throughout history and across diverse cultures. Students will hone their research, written, and verbal communication skills while examining the complexities of military service and its impact on our society.

Developing Leadership Skills and an Interdisciplinary Perspective

The bachelor's degree in Veteran Studies equips students with superior research and writing skills to assess complex problems from an interdisciplinary perspective. The program focuses on leadership development for various careers in non-profit, business, government sectors, community organizations, and senior services.

Join Saint Leo University's Innovative Online Degree Program

Dive into a transformative educational experience with Saint Leo University's online bachelor's degree in Veteran Studies. Apply today and be part of our groundbreaking program, available exclusively to online students.

Apply Now

How to Apply to Saint Leo University's Online Programs

To apply for our online bachelor's degree in Veteran Studies or any other online program at Saint Leo University, follow these simple steps:

  1. Fill out the online application https://www.saintleo.edu/apply-online
  2. Provide color copies of a government-issued ID (Driver’s License/State-Issued ID or Passport)
  3. Submit proof of high school graduation
  4. Submit official academic transcripts or email electronic transcripts to transcripts@saintleo.edu 
  5. Submit official scores for standardized examinations, if applicable
  6. Submit professional training documentation for possible academic credit, if applicable

Submit all required application materials directly to Saint Leo University's Office of Admissions.

Office of Admissions
Saint Leo University
33701 County Road 52
PO Box 6665, MC 2008
Saint Leo, FL 33574
Fax: 888.743.8116

Once all documents have been received, you will be notified of the admission decision within three to seven business days. If you're interested in financial aid, be sure to visit the financial aid page, https://www.saintleo.edu/tuition-financial-aid/aid, to determine your eligibility for grants, loans, and scholarships.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.saintleo.edu/admissions/online

Q&A on Saint Leo University's New BA in Veteran Studies Program

We're excited to announce the launch of our new online Bachelor of Arts in Veteran Studies program, starting this Fall 2024. The program is led by our distinguished faculty members, Dr. Eric Hannel (ret. Marine Corps) and Dr. Frank Hernandez (ret. Air Force). Specifically, Dr. Hannel will be teaching VTS 201 online in the Fall of 2024.

Hannel: This program is offered under the College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services within the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies. Students will examine the human experience of military conflict throughout history and across a variety of cultures. The interdisciplinary curriculum draws from the social sciences, humanities, and the arts. The main foundation of this program emphasizes that military service ultimately creates unique and diverse communities.

Hannel: We want to make it clear that this bachelor's degree program and the minor are open to both veteran and non-veteran students. If you think about a student doing this program first and then going into the military, it will help prepare them for any challenges that face active-duty members and might even help them more easily transition out of the military when they decide to leave. I could also see those who grew up in a military family or those interested in the intersection of conflict and culture, like myself, being interested in the program.

Hannel: The program offers a nice variety of courses. Two unique classes I'd like to mention are:

  • Legendary Warriors of the Ancient and Medieval Worlds – This course looks at historical and fictional warriors of the ancient and medieval worlds, such as Alexander the Great, Odysseus, Hannibal, and Joan of Arc. Students will look at how post-conflict issues have been portrayed in history and the developments in equipment, strategy, and how the actions of these warriors created empires. It will explore how some heroic ideals continue to influence how we perceive leadership, military service, and the veteran experience.
  • Native American Warriors and Veterans: Serving Two Sovereigns - This class explores the role of native warriors as Veterans of the United States military and the place of honor they hold in indigenous societies.

Hannel: This program will be heavy on advising, so students will work closely with their advisors on career exploration based on the student's specific areas of interest. I think veteran law and policy, working for veteran-oriented nonprofits, and even working as a headhunter for veterans are just a few examples.

Yes. The bachelor’s degree in Veteran Studies degree program is offered at our University Campus location. This degree program was first offered in Fall 2021. 

Yes. Navy veteran Devon Wilson made history in 2024 as the first graduate of the Bachelor of Arts in Veteran Studies program at Saint Leo University. The milestone was achieved at the university campus, where Dr. Karen Hannel presented Devon with a special graduation stole, recognizing his exceptional accomplishment and military service.

Read article regarding 1st Bachelor's in Veteran Studies awarded at Saint Leo University