How to Become a Nurse Practitioner in the US Military

I'm interested in nursing and thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner in the US military. What are the steps and requirements? Is there a specific path or training involved for high school students to consider?

Becoming a nurse practitioner in the U.S. military involves several stages, starting from high school to further specialized training. Here are the steps outlined below:

1. Education: The first requirement is to complete a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited college or university. Work on maintaining a good GPA and take relevant high school courses that lead towards the field of nursing. Focusing on science classes like biology, chemistry, and mathematics is particularly beneficial.

2. RN License: After getting your BSN, pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN).

3. Work Experience: It's usually recommended and often required, depending on the branch of the military you're interested in, to acquire some experience working as an RN. This can range from just a year or two, to ideally 2-3+ years in a long-term healthcare or hospital setting.

4. Master's Degree: Go for a Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN) with a specialization in the area of healthcare you're most interested in. This could be family health, psychiatry, acute care, women's health, etc.

5. Certification: After earning your MSN, you'll have to get national certification as a nurse practitioner by passing an exam related to your specialization. This certification needs to be kept current through regular continuing education.

6. Military Service: Apply to whichever branch of the military you're interested in joining; Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or Space Force. Each branch has its own Nurse Corps where nurse practitioners serve in a variety of roles.

7. Military Training (MEPS/OTC): If accepted, you'll go through the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and follow that up with Officer Training Course (OTC). This usually involves physical exams, fitness tests, and learning military regulations and lifestyle.

8. Serve: Now you can serve as a nurse practitioner in your desired branch of the military! Your duties could range from providing primary and specialty healthcare to active-duty members and their families to serving in combat zones and providing healthcare to soldiers in the field.

Throughout your journey, keep in mind that you should be prepared physically and mentally. The road can be challenging, but also rewarding as you serve your country in such a crucial healthcare role. Look for mentorship opportunities along the way, and reach out to professionals already serving in the military healthcare system; they can be a great source of advice and encouragement.