What kind of education is required to become a professional investor/stock trader?

I am in the military, so I won't be making much money in my present vocation; however, when I do have time, I would like to study to be a professional investor, stock trader, or maybe even dabble in the foreign exchange. I am not looking for an MBA (I have a MAcc) or something to hang on my wall, I am looking for practical ways to learn to be a trader. Does anyone have any advice?

You do not need a formal education to become a stock broker. the guy that handles 5 of my mutual funds was in the navy for 6 years then went to work as an assistant at t rowe price. he now manages 9 funds and does a great job. your military background will help you get a job but you must know how the market works. read all you can about it. there are different series test you might have to take, series 6,7,62,63,65, depend on what you want to be able to trade. practice questions are available online. this will give you an idea of the things you need to know. it is not just about how a stock does during a trade session
ex:
The Securities Act of 1933 pertains to which securities market?
a. Primary
b. Secondary
c. Third
d. Fourth

What is the third markets???

Which of the following does not apply as far as trading stocks on the floor of the NYSE is concerned?
a. Time priority
b. Price precedence
c. Time and price parity
d. Premiums

How much of one company can a mutual find own?

good luck

this is a list of the series test you might need. dont be nervous, if it something you want to do, you will have no problem

How to find a share partner or investor for my business(education)? How to find a share partner or investor for my business(education)?

From the article "Find Yourself an Angel" http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol13/angel.htm here are some places where you can find investors to help your small business:

1. The first place to look for is among your business associates. You have a greater chance of securing financing from people who knows you. Then ask your business associates to ask their acquaintances. However, the farther the relationship and the lesser the prospective angel knows you, the lesser the chances of securing the investment unless they have a unique understanding of your product.

2. Network, network and network. Join a professional organization or trade group for your industry. Begin attending meetings on a regular basis. This is the best way to get acquainted with successful business owners in your field.

3. Stay local. You don't need to go beyond your geographic area to find investors willing to take their chances with your venture.

4. Discreetly inquire about people who appear to be the most successful members of your industry. Pitch the idea to your lawyer or accountant - they may be interested or know someone who could be interested. They may have clients who frequently invest in a new and growing business.

4. Research on the Internet.

Angel Capital Association http://www.angelcapitalassociation.org
Angel's Forum http://www.angelsforum.com
Band of Angels http://www.bandangels.com
Common Angels http://www.commonangels.com
Keiretsu Forum http://www.k4forum.com
Launchpad Venture Group http://www.launchpadventuregroup.com
New World Angels http://www.newworldangels.com
New York Angels http://www.newyorkangels.com
Prairie Angels http://www.prairieangels.org (charges $125 to submit idea)
Robin Hood Ventures http://www.robinhoodventures.com (charges $250)
vFinance Directory of Angel Investors: http://www.vfinance.com

What higher-education is needed to pursue a career as an International-Investor?

I'm a 33 years old Business Man going to College as a fresh-man.

I did some business college in the past; but I don't want to take it in count.

Ok.
The idea is to learn how to Invest, and Manage Private-Capital Portfolios.

So I would like to learn about:

Real State (Developing and Marketing).
Financial/Capital Markets.
Mergers and Acquisitions.
Investments in Franchises.
Entrepreneurship.

Thanks so much for all your advice.

MBA with focus on finance and all its variant courses -- corporate finance, buyouts and acquisitions, financial derivatives, private equity, venture capital, even accounting.

I suggest you look at various MBA programs out there whether full time or part time and see which ones fit your goal.