How to pursue civilian nurse jobs in the military?

I'm interested in nursing and learned that there are civilian nurse jobs in the military. How do these roles differ from traditional nursing jobs, and what path should I take in high school and college to qualify for them?

Civilian nurses in the military have many of the same responsibilities as traditional nurses, but they work in military facilities, providing care to military personnel, veterans, and their families. The work environment can wield some unique challenges compared to civilian hospitals, such as dealing with more extensive traumatic injuries or addressing specific health concerns related to military service.

Starting in high school, you should focus on science and health-oriented courses. Advanced biology and chemistry, as well as courses in psychology and statistics, would be ideal. Also, work on developing soft skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, as these qualities are important in nursing. If your high school has a club related to healthcare, like Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), consider joining to gain insights and experiences in healthcare.

In college, you’ll need to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. When choosing a nursing program, try to opt for one that is accredited either by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These are widely recognized accreditations that ensure the quality and relevance of the nursing education you receive.

During your nursing program, try to gain diverse internship experiences in different health care settings. A broad range of experience will make you more adaptable and may increase your chances of securing a job in a military hospital or clinic.

After earning your BSN, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). Some states might have additional requirements, such as a criminal background check, so it's important to check the nursing license requirements in the state you plan to practice.

Lastly, just like applying for any other job, you'll need to submit your application to the Department of Defense or Veterans Affairs job portals, specifying your interest in nursing roles within military facilities.

Remember, while civilian nurses in military settings don't face the same deployment requirements as active-duty military nurses, the job may still call for flexibility, resilience, and dedication due to the unique patient population it serves.