How about enlisted pilots as a solution?
With USMS I flew with ex-enlisted types who had various jobs in the military....and who did their service, had gotten out and financed their own aviation careers as civilians. They were dual current in DOJ 727s & Hawker 800s and were very good. Would have made fine military pilots.
I don't recall ever using my college education as such when flying. In fact, one of the better fighter pilots I ever flew with had been a music major.
In addition, with enlisted pilots you would save money associated with the lower pay grades.
