How to Become a Military Nurse

Military nurses work in many specialties within the United States Armed Forces. They treat members of the military as well as their families in a wide variety of roles. To become a military nurse, the steps include education, testing, and licensing, after which military nurses can pursue employment. Below, we’ll detail the steps to follow, how long it takes to become a military nurse, and where to start.

Become a Military Nurse in 5 Steps

Nursing education provides military nurses the knowledge needed to treat patients in all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. State licensing is required to practice as a military nurse, and military nurses may go on to earn higher degrees.

Schooling Requirements for Military Nurses

Military nurses can practice after receiving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing since they enter the military as commissioned officers. Additionally, a survey by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing found that over 70% of healthcare employers want new nursing hires to hold a BSN. The National Academy of Medicine announced a goal in 2010 for 80% of RNs to hold a BSN degree by the year 2020. By 2020, at least 65% of nurses held BSN degrees, but in 2023, the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey reported that number rose above 70%.

Military nurses who wish to become nurse practitioners can do so by earning a higher degree, like an MSN, and DNPs can work as clinicians or in higher leadership positions.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing gives future military nurses a more well-rounded education experience than an associate’s degree. Typically done over four years, the BSN curriculum covers the basics of nursing care and how the body works, but also teaches more specialized critical thinking skills.

A BSN prepares future military nurses to handle a high level of care by adding higher-level concepts like evidence-based practice, community health nursing, statistics used in research, nursing management and leadership, health informatics and analysis, healthcare ethics, and nutrition.

Master of Science in Nursing

A Master of Science in Nursing, or MSN, can be earned in two years, but many students continue to work throughout the program, which increases time to completion.

Doctor of Nursing Practice

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree is the highest level of education a nurse can achieve. This program takes longer than an MSN but may offer higher salaries and more opportunities.

Military Nurse Licensing

Once a new nursing graduate has earned their degree, they must apply for licensure. Military nurses must apply for a registered nurse license to practice. To become a licensed and practicing nurse in any state, all nursing graduates must pass the state licensing exam (the NCLEX-RN) and apply for a state license.

NCLEX-RN

The National Council Licensure Examination–RN (NCLEX-RN) is a computer-based exam with 85 to 150 questions. The exam takes anywhere from one hour to a maximum of five hours. Questions fall into four basic categories:

1. Safe and Effective Care Environment
2. Health Promotion and Maintenance
3. Psychosocial Integrity
4. Physiological Integrity

Once completed, the state board of nursing sends test results within six weeks, usually by email. In the time leading up to the NCLEX-RN, it’s important for graduates to study practice questions to ensure a passing grade and many students take NCLEX prep courses to increase their likelihood of success.

Registered Nurse State License Application and Renewal

Each state in the U.S. has a unique registered nurse licensing application process. The state board of nursing will want to see proof of an NCLEX passing result and a diploma from an accredited nursing program. Most states require criminal background checks and fingerprinting, and some may want to see university transcripts.

In most states, RNs must renew their license every two years after initial licensure. Each state has varying requirements for continuing education and other documentation needed for renewal. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing offers a wealth of information on registered nurse licensing requirements by state.

Where Military Nurses Work

Nursing duties and opportunities depend on the military branch. They may work in the U.S. on military bases, or they may be deployed overseas. Some common workplaces for military nurses include:

• Military Hospitals
• Military Clinics
• V.A. Hospitals/Clinics
• Temporary medical facilities in and around combat zones

FAQs: How to Become a Military Nurse

   1. What education is needed to become a military nurse?

Military nurses must graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from an accredited college or university. After some bedside experience, they may pursue advanced degrees like a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), but these are not required to practice as a military nurse.

   2. How many years does it take to become a military nurse?

The time it takes to become a military nurse is four years for a bachelor’s degree.

   3. What are the steps to become a military nurse?

To become a military nurse, aspiring nurses must apply to and graduate from an accredited nursing school, pass the NCLEX-RN, and apply for and receive a nursing license in their state. After these steps, they may apply to military nurse positions and higher education if they wish.

   4. How much do military nurses make an hour?

Military nurses make a similar wage to any other registered nurse. According to ZipRecruiter, military nurses earn an average of $38.62 per hour, which equals about $80,321 annually. Nurses with an advanced degree will be able to earn more.