Why Do You Need a BSN?
All military branches require nurses to have a BSN. The military only accepts candidates with baccalaureate degrees because nurses enter the service as an officer. Over the years, nurses have the opportunity to rise in rank, increase the amount of their allotted stipends, earn a higher salary and gain more responsibility. For example, army ranks include:
- Second Lieutenant.
- First Lieutenant.
- Captain.
- Major.
- Lieutenant Colonel.
What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Military Nurse?
To become a military nurse, you need to do the following:
- Graduate from an accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
- Pass the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) to obtain a license to practice nursing as an RN.
- Acquire nursing work experience.
- Contact a recruiter to enlist.
- Fill out the application packet and meet eligibility requirements.
- Complete a Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC) if you are selected. BOLC includes physical training as well as an introduction to working in the military.
What Branches of the Military Employ Nurses?
The Army Nurse Corps began in 1901. Throughout history, nurses have provided care to service men and women in combat, to victims of natural disasters and to veterans living in the United States. Today every branch of the military has a Nurse Corps.
What Is Military Nursing?
Much like their civilian counterparts, military nurses deliver care to patients and promote wellness. Nurses assess and treat patients, administer medication, monitor health conditions and help patients recover from injuries, illness or surgical procedures.
The difference is that nurses in the military may work in foreign countries or on military bases. They also may be deployed to war zones where they triage patients for life-threatening injuries.
How Does Lamar University Help Military Students?
Lamar University (LU) supports military students by guiding them through the admissions process and providing academic and financial advisement. The LU VA Office offers students information about Department of Veterans Affairs Educational Assistance Programs and the Texas Hazlewood Exemption Act. The educational benefits aid students in pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree.
If you have an associate degree and have a desire to work as a military nurse, you may want to consider enrolling in an online RN to BSN program. You can complete the Lamar University online RN to BSN degree program in as few as 13 months. Multiple start dates and a convenient class schedule allow you the flexibility to continue working while completing the program.
Learn more about Lamar University’s online RN to BSN program.
Sources:
The National Minority AIDS Education & Training Center: How to Become a Military Nurse
The Balance: Learn How to Become a Registered Nurse in the Military
RegisteredNursing.org: Military Nurse
Nurse.org: Military Nurse Career Guide
Lamar University: Veterans Affairs
Lamar University: What Are the Benefits of Attending Lamar As a Military Student?
