Considering nursing in the military

Hi there! I've been seriously considering studying nursing after I graduate from high school, but I'm also intrigued by the idea of joining the military. So, can anyone tell me which military branch has the best opportunities for nursing or generally working in medical services? Also, insight into how competitive these positions are during the admissions would be much appreciated!

Sure thing, happy to provide some insight into this. Each branch of the United States military — the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and even Space Force — offers opportunities in the medical field, including nursing.

For nursing specifically, the Army, Navy, and Air Force are generally considered the best choices. Each of these branches has a specific medical corps that provides comprehensive medical care.

The Army Nurse Corps and Navy Nurse Corps are some of the largest and most diverse nursing services, offering a myriad of specialties and locations around the world for duty stations. These programs also support furthering your education and professional development such as becoming a nurse practitioner or specialized nurse.

On the other hand, the Air Force is often praised for a better quality of life due to typically better housing, longer at-home times, and wider availability of advanced technology in their medical facilities. However, the Air Force is somewhat limited in the types of medical conditions and injuries their healthcare providers treat, as they primarily deal with airmen and their families, unlike the Army and Navy who may be dealing with combat injuries.

Regarding competitiveness, these roles can indeed be competitive. A solid academic track record in high school, then obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, and passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) are generally the first steps. Many also suggest getting some civilian nursing experience before applying to be a military nurse, but this isn't mandatory.

Lastly, remember that in addition to nursing skills, you'll also need to meet the general requirements of whichever branch you join, which may include meeting certain physical, moral, and legal standards. Committing to military service is a serious decision that will require a significant time commitment and may place you in diverse and challenging environments. It can be extremely rewarding but also comes with unique challenges that are worth considering in depth.