It’s 2017. The Military Still Requires Officers To Have College Degrees. Why?

Having been on both sides of the fence, enlisted and officer, I think that a degree doesn't make any better of a leader than not having one. However, by attaining degree you have put forth 4 years of critical thinking, writing, speaking, and decision making versus an 18 year old who just graduated high school and has none of that. I believe it is necessary to make certain types of officers as well like an Engineering officer needs an engineering degree, an environmentalist needs scientific degree or a medical person needs a medical degree etc. But to fly planes, lead men and women in combat, or other areas, a degree is not needed. It is a discriminator though in a good way. It shows you had the fortitude to stick to something greater than yourself to get through. And before nay of yo slam me stating you didn't have money for school, well neither did I. I scrimped/scraped/struggled, and worked three jobs just to eat and have a place to sleep so I could get through my college so I could commission...it was worth the work. Does it make you a better leader...no, that is inherent to the individual. Does it give you more knowledge and options as a leader...yes because you know a little bit more about the world through book knowledge, decision making, and critical thinking skills that are required.

Seems the higher degree O grade officers have the further they are away from reality. Some of the best Officers I served with in the Army "just" had four year degrees. One had been enlisted Navy hardhat diver, the other enlisted Marine helo mechanic. Both sought advice and looked after their troops. An advanced degree does not automatically make a great leader.

It's a status thing, when the higher educated we considered more refined. That's why I'd rather be lead by a Warrant Officer than a school kid.