Pros and Cons of Being an Army Nurse + Salary + Steps to Become

Written By: Jennifer SchletteJennifer Schlette MSN, RN

Jennifer Schlette is a registered nurse in pediatric critical care in New York City. She is the former Director of Undergraduate Nursing at a college located in New York. After obtaining her BSN from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, she went on to complete her MSN. Jennifer also freelances as a fact-checker for a mother’s advice publication. Read Full Bio »» MSN, RN

Army nurses are the backbone of the Army medical system. They provide quality health care to soldiers and their families in civilian and deployed settings. Army nurses have many responsibilities and face many challenges, but they also enjoy unique benefits and rewards. From tending to the wounded on the battlefield to helping soldiers recover in military hospitals, army nurses play a vital role in supporting our troops and their families. But what are the pros and cons of being an army nurse? How much does an army nurse earn, and what steps do you need to take to become one?

Here are the top 10 pros and cons of being an army nurse + salary + steps to become one. These pros and cons will surely help you decide if this is the career for you.

What Exactly is an Army Nurse?

So, I am sure the first question you have is, "what exactly is an Army Nurse?" Well, let me tell you. An Army Nurse is a registered nurse who provides care to soldiers and their families. Army Nurses are also responsible for the health and well-being of the soldiers themselves. They provide care in all aspects of the soldiers' lives, from medical care to emotional support. Army Nurses are an essential part of the Army's health care team.

What Does an Army Nurse Do?

So, let's now dive into what does an army nurse do? Before becoming an army nurse, knowing what you will be responsible for in your daily activities is essential. Below you will find the most common duties of an army nurse.

1. Care for wounded and ill soldiers:

As an army nurse, you will be responsible for caring for injured and sick soldiers. This includes providing them with medical treatment and emotional support. You will also need to keep accurate records of their condition and the progress they are making. Working as an army nurse can be both challenging and rewarding. You will have the opportunity to help soldiers in their time of need and make a difference in their lives.

2. Treat soldiers during peacetime:

In the Army, nurses are responsible for the health and well-being of soldiers. This includes providing care during times of peace. During peacetime, nurses may work in hospitals or clinics on base, providing care to injured or ill soldiers. They may also provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings.

3. Care for the service member’s families:

As an army nurse, you will be responsible for caring for the service member's families. This includes providing emotional and physical support to the family members. You will also be responsible for coordinating with other health care providers to ensure that the service member's families receive the best possible care.

4. Administer medical care and vaccinations to children in developing countries:

As an army nurse, you will be responsible for administering medical care and vaccinations to children in developing countries. You will be impacting the lives of children in need and helping keep them healthy and safe.

5. Assist in humanitarian relief:

Natural and man-made disasters can occur anytime. As an army nurse, you will be responsible for providing medical assistance to those affected. This may include setting up temporary medical facilities, providing care to the injured, and coordinating with other relief workers.

In addition to providing direct care, you will also be responsible for ensuring that the patients have access to necessary supplies and medications. You may also be required to provide education to the community on disaster preparedness and first aid.

6. Set up military triage in war zones:

As an army nurse, you will be responsible for setting-up military triage in war zones. This will require you to be skilled in identifying and prioritizing the medical needs of patients. In addition, you will need to be able to work well under pressure and have the ability to make quick decisions.

Where Does an Army Nurse Work?

Before you decide to become an army nurse, it is important to know where they work. Otherwise, you may end up working in a location that is not ideal for you. Here are some of the common places that army nurses work:

1. Military Hospitals:

One of the most common places you will find an army nurse working is in a military hospital. These hospitals are usually located on or near army bases and provide care for injured or ill soldiers. Army nurses often have to deal with traumatic injuries, diseases, and other health problems that are unique to the military population.

2. Military Clinics:

Military clinics are another setting where you will find army nurses. These clinics provide care to soldiers and their families, so they are always busy. Army nurses in these clinics offer a wide range of services, from primary care to mental health support.

3. V.A. Hospitals/Clinics:

V.A. hospitals and clinics also employ army nurses. In this type of setting, you will be caring for our nation's heroes, those who have served in the military. You will find that working in a V.A. hospital or clinic can be very rewarding. These types of facilities are often understaffed and underfunded, so your help will be greatly appreciated. You may also find that you have more autonomy in your work than you would in a traditional hospital setting.

4. Pop-up/makeshift nursing facilities in and around combat zones:

You will find army nurses working in Pop-up/makeshift nursing facilities in and around combat zones. These nurses provide care for soldiers who are wounded in combat. They also offer care for civilians who are injured in the fighting.

The nurses who work in these facilities often have to deal with challenging conditions. They may not have enough supplies, or they may be working in a dangerous area. But despite these challenges, they continue to provide care for those who need it.

5. Military research facilities:

Another place that you will find army nurses working is military research facilities. These nurses play an essential role in keeping our soldiers healthy and fit for duty. They conduct research on new medical treatments and procedures and work to find ways to improve the health of our troops.

What is the Typical Work Schedule of an Army Nurse?

The typical work schedule for an army nurse is very demanding. They are expected to work long hours and often have to be on call. You may find yourself working a rotating schedule. This means you could be working nights one week and days the next. You may also have to work weekends and holidays. Army nurses are expected to be available to their patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This can be a very challenging schedule to maintain. Still, it is necessary in order to provide the best possible care for your patients.

What are the Most Important Skills and Abilities Required To Successfully Work as an Army Nurse?

1. Knowledgeable:

One of the most important abilities you can possess as an army nurse is knowledge. You must know about disease processes and injuries to provide adequate care for your patients. In addition, you must also be knowledgeable about life-saving techniques so that you can save lives in emergency situations. By possessing this knowledge, you will be able to make a difference in the lives of those who serve our country.

2. Versatile:

Versatility is another essential trait for Army nurses. As the needs of soldiers can change rapidly, army nurses must be able to adapt to new situations quickly. They may need to provide care in austere environments, far from traditional medical facilities. They must be able to work long hours, sometimes under extreme conditions.

3. Critical thinker:

Critical thinking is a skill that is essential for army nurses. It allows them to make decisions quickly and accurately in high-pressure situations. Army nurses must be able to assess a situation, identify the problem, and come up with a solution. They need to be able to think on their feet and make decisions that could mean life or death for their patients.

4. Organized:

Being organized is an essential trait of an army nurse. This is because organization is a key to running a successful and efficient medical operation. An army nurse must be able to keep track of patients, supplies, and paperwork while also being able to effectively communicate with other members of the medical team.

5. Time Management:

As an army nurse, possessing time management skills is crucial in ensuring the successful completion of your duties. In a fast-paced and ever-changing environment, being able to juggle multiple tasks and priorities is a must. One of the most important aspects of time management is knowing how to prioritize. Army nurses are constantly bombarded with tasks, both big and small. It is essential to be able to assess each situation and determine what needs to be done first, second, third, etc.

6. Leader:

Being a leader is not easy. It takes a particular person to be able to motivate and inspire others. Army nurses are leaders. They are the ones who are responsible for the care of their patients. Army nurses are also responsible for the morale of their troops. They have to be able to keep their head up even when things are tough. Army nurses are leaders because they have what it takes to make a difference.

7. Stamina:

Stamina is one of the most important qualities an Army nurse must-have. After all, when you are taking care of patients day in and day out, there is no room for error. You need to be able to handle long hours on your feet and maintain a high level of focus and concentration. So, if you are considering becoming an Army nurse, make sure you are up for the challenge!

8. Decisive:

Army nurses must be able to handle high-pressure situations. They must be calm under pressure and able to think clearly in order to make the best possible decisions for their patients. Army nurses are expected to make life-saving decisions on a daily basis. They must be able to think quickly and act decisively in order to save lives.

9. Work In a team:

Teamwork is essential to being an army nurse. Army nurses must be able to work effectively in a team in order to provide the best care for their patients. There are many different roles that army nurses play in a team, and it is important for them to be able to work together seamlessly in order to provide the best care possible.

10. Communication:

Communication is a massive part of being an army nurse. You need to be able to communicate with your patients, their families, and your fellow medical staff. There is no room for error regarding communication in the Army. You have to be able to get your point across clearly and concisely.

How Much Does an Army Nurse Make?

So, I know you probably want to know the answer to the question, how much does an army nurse make? The average army nurse's hourly salary is $43.96, which is $7,620. This is an annual salary of $91,438.

The entry-level annual salary for an army nurse is $61,040. This means you will be earning a monthly income of $5,090 or an hourly wage of $29.35.

Once you have gained a bit more experience and have been working for one to four years, you will earn an hourly wage of $29.35 or $5,870. This is an annual salary of $70,430. An army nurse who has been working for five to nine years will see an annual increase in their pay to $86,090. This is a monthly income of $7,170 or an hourly $41.39.

Army nurses with ten to nineteen years of experience earn an hourly wage of $51.42 and a monthly income of $8,910. This is an annual salary of $106,960. Twenty years or more experience as an army nurse will have you earning a yearly salary of $132,830. This is a monthly income of $11,070. A monthly salary of this caliber is $63.86 an hour.

Level of Experience	Hourly	Monthly	Annual
Entry-Level	$29.35	$5,090	$61,040
1-4 Years of Experience	$33.86	$5,870	$70,430
5-9 Years of Experience	$41.39	$7,170	$86,090
10-19 Years of Experience	$51.42	$8,910	$106,960
20 Years or More Experience	$63.86	$11,070	$132,830
Average Salary	$43.96	$7,620	$91,438

Is There a Demand for Army Nurses?

When you decide to embark on a career path in nursing, you may wonder if there is a demand for your chosen profession. After all, nurses are in high demand across the globe. However, you may have your heart set on becoming an army nurse. So, is there a demand for army nurses? The answer is: absolutely!

1. Their skill set:

One reason why army nurses are in such high demand is because of the unique skill set that they possess. Army nurses are trained to provide care in austere and often dangerous environments. This means that they are able to deploy to locations where other healthcare providers may not be able to go.

2. Trauma:

Another reason why army nurses are so coveted is because of their experience in dealing with trauma patients. Since army nurses see a lot of combat-related injuries, they are well-versed in caring for patients who have suffered traumatic injuries. This experience only increases the demand for army nurses.

3. Political temper:

Another reason for the demand for army nurses is the current political situation. With the talk of war, many people are enlisting in the military. This means that more people need medical care, and thus more demand for nurses. Army hospitals are some of the best in the world, so they can attract top talent.

What is the Step-By-Step Process to Become an Army Nurse?

1. Your education level required to be an army nurse depends on whether you are on active duty or in the reserves. If you are on active duty, you will need to hold a bachelor's degree in nursing. If you are in the army reserves, you need to have a diploma in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a bachelor's degree in nursing.

2. You must successfully pass the national certification licensure exam (NCLEX).

3. You must be between the age of 21 and 42 years of age.

4. If you are on active duty, you must be a United States Citizen. If you are in the army reserves, you must be a permanent United States Resident.

5. You must then complete the Officer Basic Leadership Course.

6. You will also need to be certified in Basic Life Support (BLS). Depending on your specialty, an army nurse may also need an Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification or Pediatric Advance life support (PALS).

Top Cons of Being an Army Nurse

(The following are the top 10 disadvantages of being an Army Nurse.)

1. You will have work long hours.

One of the cons of being an army nurse is that you often work long hours. This can be tough on your personal life, as well as your health. If you are not used to working long hours, adjusting can be a real challenge. You may find that you will work well over 40 hours a week, and on some occasions, you may even have to work shifts that last 12 hours or more. This can be tiring, and it can make it challenging to get enough rest.

2. You will be on your feet all day.

As an army nurse, you can expect to be on your feet all day. You will be walking, standing, and maybe even running to keep up with the demands of your job. Being on your feet all day can lead to fatigue and pain. You can also end up with varicose veins, bunions, or other foot problems.

3. You can be deployed

One of the biggest disadvantages of being an army nurse is that you can be deployed overseas away from your loved ones. You will be away from your family and loved ones for a reasonable amount of time. You will miss birthdays, anniversaries, and important milestones in your loved ones' lives. Although you may have some contact with them, it will not be the same as being there in person.

4. You can be relocated many times.

Another one of the top cons of being an army nurse is that you can be relocated many times. This means you are always starting over, making new friends, and leaving old ones behind. It can be tough on your family, too, especially if you have children, as they have to uproot their lives every time you move.

5. You will have a commitment that you cannot break.

As an Army nurse, you will have to commit eight years of your life to the military. This is a big decision and not one to take lightly. Before making this decision, there are many things to consider, such as your career goals, family situation, and lifestyle. If you enter into this career and feel you made a mistake, well, you are pretty much stuck with it for eight years till your commitment is up. So, make sure you are absolutely positive becoming an Army nurse is the right decision for you and your family before taking the plunge.

6. You will have to take orders.

As an army nurse, you are going to have to get used to taking orders from others. This is not always easy, but it is something you will have to do to succeed in your career. If you do not take orders well, you may want to consider a different career path because you will be bossed around a lot.

7. You will need to meet specific requirements.

One of the disadvantages of being an army nurse is that you have to meet specific physical requirements in order to serve. For example, you must be of a certain height, weight, and age. You also have to pass a physical fitness test. So, if you are not the Army's ideal specimen of a human, you may have to find another line of work.

8. You cannot be an active duty army nurse without a bachelor’s degree

As an Army nurse, you cannot be an active-duty army nurse without a bachelor's degree. So, hold a diploma or an associate's degree in nursing. You will not be able to serve as an active-duty Army nurse. You will only be able to serve in the reserves.

9. You may be stationed in a war zone.

Another one of the cons of being an army nurse is that you may be stationed in a war zone. This could potentially put your life in danger, and you would have to deal with the aftermath of war. Many people who have been in war zones have come back with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues. So, if you are considering becoming an army nurse, just be aware that this is a possibility. If you are not comfortable with this, then being an army nurse is probably not the right career choice for you.

10. You may lose friends to war.

As an Army nurse, you may lose friends physically and mentally to war. You may become close with coworkers and soldiers who will be stationed in a war zone or maybe in combat. If you are assigned to a combat unit, you will see firsthand the effects of war on the human body and mind. Some soldiers will be severely wounded, some will die, and some will be permanently changed by their experiences. You will also see how war affects families and communities. As an Army nurse, you will play a vital role in providing care regardless of circumstances.

Top Pros of Being an Army Nurse

(The following are the top 10 advantages of being an Army Nurse.)

1. You will get a sign-on bonus.

One of the pros of being an army nurse is getting a sign-on bonus. A sign-on bonus will give you some extra money to help you start your career. This bonus can be used to help pay for things like tuition, books, and other necessary expenses.

2. Your pay will increase with your rank.

As an Army nurse, your pay will increase as your rank does. Your salary will reflect the higher you move up in the ranks. So, consider becoming an officer if you want to make more money!

3. You can advance your education for free.

If you are looking for a way to serve your country and advance your nursing career, consider joining the Army Nurse Corps. You will receive excellent training and education and may even have your tuition paid for. It's a great way to save money on your nursing education while serving your country.

4. You can travel the country.

One of the pros of being an army nurse is traveling across the United States. You will be stationed at various army bases around the country, which can be an excellent opportunity to see different parts of the country. If you are someone who enjoys travel, then this could be a great career option for you.

5. You can travel the world.

As an army nurse, you will have the opportunity to travel the world and see places you never thought possible. You will get to experience new cultures and meet people from all walks of life. And, best of all, you will be doing it while helping others. It is a win-win situation!

6. You can choose a specialty.

One of the biggest advantages of being an army nurse is the ability to choose a specialty to work in. There are many different specialties available, so you can find one that best suits your skills and interests. Some of the most popular army nursing specialties include critical care, emergency room, medical-surgical, and pediatric nursing. Each of these specialties offers its own unique challenges and rewards, so you can be sure to find a career that you love in the army nursing field.

7. You will get significant benefits for yourself and your family.

As an Army nurse, you will enjoy many different benefits that will make your life easier and more comfortable. These benefits are designed to help you and your family in various ways, including financially. These benefits include life insurance, health care, and a retirement plan. You will also receive a housing stipend and free or low-cost childcare. You will also have access to education benefits, which can help you further your career.

8. Loan repayment program

Another one of the advantages of being an army nurse is the loan repayment program. If you have any outstanding loans, the Army will help you pay them off. This is a great way to get out of debt and start fresh. Who doesn't want to start their career debt-free?

9. You will be well respected.

As an army nurse, you will have a well-respected career. You have accomplished something that not everyone can do and earned the trust and respect of those who serve alongside you. You will be able to provide care and comfort to those in need and make a difference in the lives of those you serve.

10. You will have job security.

As an army nurse, you can breathe a sigh of relief since you will have job security. Job security is a comforting and great thing to have, especially in these times. Who knows what the future holds but being an army nurse gives you a pretty good chance of always having a job. So go ahead and sign up!

Breaking Down the Salary of an Army Nurse

What Is The Starting Salary Of An Army Nurse?

The starting salary of an army nurse is $29.35 an hour or $1,174 a week. This is a monthly income of $5,090 or an annual income of $61,040.

Hourly	$29.35
Weekly	$1,174
Monthly	$5,090
Annual	$61,040

What Is The Average Salary Of An Army Nurse?

The average army nurse's salary is $91,438 a year. This annual salary will break down to $7,620 a month or $1,758 a week. This means your hourly wage will be $43.96 an hour.

Hourly	$43.96
Weekly	$1,758
Monthly	$7,620
Annual	$91,438
(Source: Indeed.com)

What Is The Average Army Nurse Salary In Your State?

A different salary based on the state you practice in also applies to the Army. In Alabama, you will earn an annual income of $68,830. Now, if you compare that salary to what you would be making in California for the same exact job, I am sure you will be shocked. In California, you can earn an annual salary of $137,780. That is a little over double the salary you would earn in Alabama.

State	Hourly	Monthly	Annual
Alabama	$33.09	$5,740	$68,830
Alaska	$52.35	$9,070	$108,880
Arizona	$44.16	$7,660	$91,860
Arkansas	$34.97	$6,060	$72,730
California	$66.24	$11,480	$137,780
Colorado	$42.78	$7,420	$88,980
Connecticut	$46.62	$8,080	$96,970
Delaware	$40.84	$7,080	$84,950
Florida	$38.19	$6,620	$79,440
Georgia	$39.29	$6,810	$81,720
Hawaii	$57.60	$9,980	$119,800
Idaho	$39.36	$6,820	$81,870
Illinois	$40.97	$7,100	$85,210
Indiana	$37.08	$6,430	$77,130
Iowa	$34.38	$5,960	$71,510
Kansas	$35.27	$6,110	$73,370
Kentucky	$35.57	$6,170	$73,980
Louisiana	$37.37	$6,480	$77,720
Maine	$39.03	$6,770	$81,190
Maryland	$44.83	$7,770	$93,240
Massachusetts	$52.88	$9,170	$110,000
Michigan	$40.65	$7,050	$84,550
Minnesota	$44.48	$7,710	$92,520
Mississippi	$33.65	$5,830	$70,000
Missouri	$36.21	$6,280	$75,310
Montana	$38.75	$6,720	$80,600
Nebraska	$38.17	$6,620	$79,400
Nevada	$49.31	$8,550	$102,570
New Hampshire	$41.74	$7,240	$86,820
New Jersey	$47.10	$8,160	$97,960
New Mexico	$41.59	$7,210	$86,510
New York	$49.32	$8,550	$102,580
North Carolina	$37.88	$6,570	$78,800
North Dakota	$38.26	$6,630	$79,580
Ohio	$38.32	$6,640	$79,710
Oklahoma	$36.59	$6,340	$76,110
Oregon	$52.87	$9,160	$109,970
Pennsylvania	$40.75	$7,060	$84,760
Rhode Island	$45.49	$7,890	$94,620
South Carolina	$36.89	$6,390	$76,730
South Dakota	$33.50	$5,810	$69,670
Tennessee	$35.23	$6,110	$73,280
Texas	$42.20	$7,310	$87,770
Utah	$38.66	$6,700	$80,420
Vermont	$39.63	$6,870	$82,440
Virginia	$40.87	$7,080	$85,000
Washington	$50.17	$8,700	$104,350
West Virginia	$35.78	$6,200	$74,430
Wisconsin	$41.08	$7,120	$85,440
Wyoming	$39.89	$6,910	$82,970

Highest Paid Army Nurses in the Nation

What Are The 10 Highest Paying States For Army Nurses?

Now, let’s take a look at the highest paying states for army nurses. California is the highest-paid state. Here you will be earning an average annual salary of $137,780. Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Alaska will have you making an average yearly salary between $108,000 to around $120,000. Washington, New York, and Nevada will have you earning an annual average wage in the low $100,000 range. New Jersey and Connecticut will round out the 10 highest paying states for army nurses, having you earn an average annual salary in the high $90,000 range.

Rank	State	Average Annual Salary
1	California	$137,780
2	Hawaii	$119,800
3	Massachusetts	$110,000
4	Oregon	$109,970
5	Alaska	$108,880
6	Washington	$104,350
7	New York	$102,580
8	Nevada	$102,570
9	New Jersey	$97,960
10	Connecticut	$96,970

What Are The 10 Highest Paying Metros For Army Nurses?

So, you already know that California is the highest paying state for army nurses, but let's now take a look at the highest paying metros for army nurses. San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA is the highest paying metro in California for army nurses. In this metro, you will earn $170,510 a year. Redding, CA, is the lowest paying metro out of the 10 highest paying metros for army nurses. In Redding, CA, you will earn $127,840. That is not too shabby.

Rank	Metro	Average Annual Salary
1	San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA	$170,510
2	San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA	$167,850
3	Vallejo-Fairfield, CA	$162,440
4	Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA	$153,540
5	Salinas, CA	$151,040
6	Santa Rosa, CA	$142,670
7	Modesto, CA	$138,390
8	Stockton-Lodi, CA	$132,410
9	Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA	$129,280
10	Redding, CA	$127,840

Top Organizations and Associations for Army Nurses

• The Army Nurse Corps Association: The Army Nurse Corps Association is a volunteer organization that aims to connect generations through excellence in nursing. Commanding officers, active duty nurses, and retired military members are all involved with this cause! They offer scholarships for their members as well as grants and conventions.

• American Nurses Association: The American Nurses Association is an excellent source for any nurse looking to advance their career or learn more about how they can do so. The site offers articles on all topics related to certification, education opportunities, and even some job listings!

My Final Thoughts

There you have it, the top 10 pros and cons of being an army nurse + salary + steps to become one. So, what do you think? Is an Army nurse the right career for you? Being an Army nurse is a unique and rewarding experience, but it is not for everyone. But if you can handle the challenges and are passionate about helping others, it could be a very rewarding career. So, if you are considering a career in nursing, the Army could be a great option for you. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons of being an army nurse before you make any decision.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert

1. Is Army Nursing A Good Career?

Being an army nurse is a good career if you are able to stick out the challenges. Not only is it an extremely rewarding job, but you also get great benefits. The training is excellent and the pay is very good.

2. On Average, How Much Does An Army Nurse Make Per Hour?

The average army nurse's salary per hour is $43.96.

$43.96

3. How Many Hours A Week Does An Army Nurse Work?

As an army nurse, the number of hours a week you work will depend on where you work and if it is peacetime or wartime. You will generally work around 40 hours a week if it is peacetime. If it is wartime, you may work well over 40 hours to fill a need.

4. Is Being An Army Nurse Stressful?

Yes, being an army nurse can be extremely stressful at times. You may find yourself staring death straight in the face time after time. You are responsible for the lives of many people. When an emergency occurs, you need to rise to the occasion.

5. Do I Need To Be Certified To Work As An Army Nurse?

No, you do not need to be certified to be an army nurse. Currently, there is no certification for army nurses.

6. What Certifications Are Required Or Recommended For An Army Nurse?

A required certification for army nurses is essential life support (BLS). Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric advanced life support (PALS) may be required based on your work setting.

7. How Long Does It Take To Become An Army Nurse?

If you decide to be an active duty army nurse, you are looking at a little over four years. This is because your Bachelor's degree in nursing will take four years to complete. Then you must take a 17-week basic officer leadership course.

If you choose to be a nurse in the army reserves, then it will take just over a year to just over four years to complete. This is because the minimum degree to be in the army reserves as a nurse is a diploma. A nursing diploma will take anywhere from one to two years to complete, plus the basic officer leadership course. Choose the associate's degree in nursing degree. It will take you two years for your education and then the 17-week Basic officer leadership course. If you choose the Bachelor's degree in nursing as a nurse in army reserves, you are looking at just over 4 years to complete.

8. How Much Does It Cost To Become An Army Nurse?

The cost of being an army nurse will depend on the type of degree you plan on pursuing. A diploma in nursing will cost you anywhere from $1,500 to $8,000 for your education. An associate's degree in nursing costs anywhere from $6,000 to $150,000. If you choose to pursue a bachelor's degree in nursing, you will be spending anywhere from $20,000 - $200,000

9. What Kind Of Career Advancement Opportunities Are There For Army Nurses?

Suppose you do not already hold a Bachelor's degree in nursing. In that case, the Army will help you obtain this degree through tuition assistance. Suppose you do already have your Bachelor's degree in Nursing. In that case, the tuition assistance program will help you achieve your advanced degree goal. You can become a nurse practitioner, a nurse-midwife, or you could earn a master's in administration or education.

10. What Are The 5 Most Common Army Nurse Interview Questions?

1. What makes you a good fit for an army nurse?
2. What is your greatest strength and weakness?
3. How do you deal with intense situations?
4. What field experience do you have for the position of an army nurse?
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?

11. How Many Army Nurses Are There?

9,598 nurses are working in the Army.

12. Can You Become A Nurse While In The Army?

Yes, you can become a nurse while working in the Army. You may also be able to access tuition assistance through the Army to help subsidize the cost of your degree.

13. Is There A Height Requirement For Army Nursing?

The height requirement for the Army nurse is 148cm or 4 foot 10 inches.

14. What Are The Physical Requirements To Be An Army Nurse?

You must meet the height (148cm) and weight (will depend on your height) standards and the ability being able to pass a physical. You will also be required to take a physical fitness test every six months. This physical fitness test includes running 2 miles, pushups, and sit-ups. The exact physical requirements vary by age. All Army nurses must be between 21 and 42 years old.

15. Do Army Nurses Have To Go Through Basic Training?

No, army nurses do not have to undergo a basic training course since they are not enlisted, soldiers.

16. Where Do Army Nurses Train?

Once you are accepted into the Army, you will attend a basic officer leadership course in Fort Sam Houston, TX.

17. How Long Is Army Nurse Training?

The Basic Officer Leadership course is 17 weeks long.

18. Do Army Nurses Go To Bootcamp?

No, Army nurses do not go to Bootcamp because they are not enlisted, soldiers.

19. What Rank Do Army Nurses Start At?

Army nurses start at the rank of Second Lieutenant.

20. What Is The Highest Rank For A Nurse In The Army?

The highest rank that you can achieve is a General.

21. How Long Are Army Nurse Contracts?

All military service obligations are now eight years.

22. Do Army Nurses Get Deployed?

Yes, army nurses can get deployed.

23. Do Army Reserve Nurses Get Deployed?

Yes, an army reserve nurse can be deployed.

24. How Often Do Army Nurses Get Deployed?

How often an army nurse gets deployed is not a set standard. Some army nurses may be deployed multiple times, whereas others will never be deployed. It is the luck of the draw.

25. How Long Are Army Nurse Deployments?

If you are deployed, your deployment will last anywhere from twelve to eighteen months.

26. What Is Army Nurse Corps?

The United States Army Nurse Corps was established by the U.S. Congress in 1901. It is one of the six particular medical branches of officers that – along with medical enlisted soldiers – comprise the Army Medical Department. The Army Nurse Corps is the nursing service of the U.S. Army. It also provides nursing staff with the support of the Department of Defense medical plans. The Army Nurse Corps is made up entirely of Registered Nurses.

27. How Do I Join The Army Nurse Corps?

To be eligible to join the Army Nurse Corps, you must meet specific standards.

1. Your education level required to be an army nurse depends on whether you are on active duty or in the reserves. If you are on active duty, you will need to hold a bachelor's degree in nursing. If you are in the army reserves, you need to have a diploma in nursing, an associate's degree in nursing, or a bachelor's degree in nursing.
2. You must successfully pass the national certification licensure exam (NCLEX).
3. You must be between the age of 21 and 42 years of age.
4. If you are on active duty, you must be a United States Citizen. If you are in the army reserves, you must be a permanent United States Resident.
5. You must then complete the Officer Basic Leadership Course.

28. Do Army Reserve Nurses Go To Bootcamp?

Nurses have commissioned officers in the Army, so you will not have to attend boot camp; instead, you must complete a specialized basic leadership course for officers in the medical corps.

29. Do Army Nurses Have To Do P.T.?

Nurses are also required to take a physical fitness test every six months, including running 2 miles, pushups, and sit-ups.

30. Does The Army Need More Nurses?

Yes, the Army does need more nurses. Just as the civilian healthcare institutions face a nursing shortage, so is the Army.

31. How Long Is An Army Reserve Nurse Contract?

The Army Reserve requires an 8-year commitment with service from three to six years. You will also be required to serve one weekend per month. During this time, you will serve in a civilian hospital or clinic close to home or in an Army field medical unit for training in establishing mobile triage units and how to manage mass casualties.

32. Do Army Nurses Wear Uniforms?

As a nurse in the Army, you will sometimes wear what is known as ACU or Army combat uniform.

33. Do Army Nurses Wear Scrubs?

Besides wearing ACU, you will also be wearing scrubs at times. What you will be wearing will depend upon the situation and what your commanding officer chooses for you to wear.

34. Do Army Nurses Make More Than Civilian Nurses?

Yes, army nurses earn more than civilian nurses. An army nurse will earn an annual salary of $91,438. A civilian nurse earns an average yearly salary of $81,780. That is a difference of $9,658. An army nurse will acquire 11.81% more than a civilian nurse.

Army Nurse Average Annual Salary	Civilian Nurse Average Annual Salary	Difference
		Number	%
$91,438	$81,780	+$9,658	+11.81%