OCC Makes National ‘Best for Vets’ School Ranking

Ocean County College’s 2018 commencement ceremony. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

Ocean County College has made a list of the nation’s best colleges for veterans in a long-time national ranking list.

For the past decade, the civilian publication Military Times has conducted an extensive study evaluating numerous factors that help make colleges and universities a good fit for service members, military veterans, and their families, including “new and innovative approaches to supporting student veterans.” This year, OCC made the publication’s list for the first time.

“We are thrilled and encouraged to be recognized for our efforts to facilitate the best education possible for veterans and members of the military right here at OCC,” said Ocean County College President Jon H. Larson.

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To compile this year’s list, Military Times surveyed hundreds of colleges and universities from across the country on policies related to military and veteran students, academic outcomes, military-supportive cultures, and other factors. OCC was ranked the 18th best two year school in America for veterans to attend.

In 2018, OCC’s total student population of 8,176 included 329 veterans or service members. All military and veteran students are assisted through the College’s Veteran and Military Resource Center (VMRC), headed up by Veteran Coordinator Ryan Luurtsema, who is a veteran of the U.S. Army.

According to college officials, the VMRC provides social, educational, recreational, academic, and advocacy support services; mentoring; leadership opportunities; and transition workshops and coaching, all designed to ensure the well-being, success, retention, and graduation of veterans, service members, and family members.