Don't compare in-residence PME with correspondence - They are apples and oranges. Correspondence is strictly there to tick the box in the quickest manner possible. (As Seinfeld would say – “Not that there is anything wrong with that”) However, in the USAF, having gone to school in-residence puts you up much higher on the food chain when it comes to promotions, etc . if you are looking for that. (Yes, I'll join Albie as a card-carrying member of the "never-say-never club" - I too have eaten my words)
Now, if you have any chance of going to school in residence - DO IT! (another thing I thought I'd never say and honestly, still can't believe I'm saying it) I’m not saying that for the professional development reasons, I’d much rather fly airplanes. I’m saying it simply for the personal ones. If for no other reason, it is a year-long paid vacation. Jeeves has got it all wrong and obviously has not been to the Naval War College in-residence, I have. The most important phrase to keep in mind is that "it is only a lot of reading if you choose to do it!" Here is the deal, on day one the Admiral stands up in front of the new class and says, “We realize you all are coming from assignments filled with frequent deployments and/or staff jobs that have had you chained to a desk for 12+ hours a day. This is your year to get to know your family again.” I don’t care what your job is (civil/guard/reserve or active duty) you will never have another opportunity like this. (to get paid top dollar to sit around and relax for a year – no cell phone, no e-mail, no living in a tent, etc.) At least at the NWC, it truly is a paid vacation. (and you don’t talk about boats, just National Security, etc. That’s why any of the schools are as good as the one from your service)
Here is/was a typical schedule at the Naval War College: Class four times per week from 0830-1145 and one day per week (either weds or thurs) also from 1330-1630. Fridays are usually “Study Days/Academic Prep” Now, if you want, there is a lot of reading to fill up all the rest of your day, but once again “It is only a lot of reading if you choose to do it.” Or, you can do what I did and take up sailing.
As a USAF guy, I could go on for hours about why the Navy school in Newport, RI is the best of any of them, but it is my only data point and this is already long enough. I do get the feeling that the other schools are not as “user friendly” but still are a good deal. Bottom Line: If you want a year-long paid vacation – go to school in-residence.
