When should I start thinking about Nurse Corps?

[Mintyfreshness23]

Hello All,

I was in the Marines for 4yrs and worked in Iraq and Afghanistan as contractor when I got out of the military (almost 4yrs in the desert). I am now in the process of a career change from a Network Engineer (Information Technology) background to hopefully become a Nurse in the military. I was wondering when would be the best time to reach out to any of the branches about their Nurse Corps? I know that a BSN is required, but is there any branch that lets you become an officer with an ADN as you try to pursue your BSN?

I know I still have a long way to go since I start the ADN program this Fall2012, but I just want to know any information that might help with my planning to becoming an officer one day. What would be the best route to becoming an officer and as well have the financial help of going to school?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

[deftonez188]

Let me give you an idea of how it went for me so you can estimate time.

Left AD in 2006, spent the next year and a half doing prereqs, followed by my application to the CC I was going to (along with the entrance exam). Accepted to the program in May 2007, began August 2007. Program ran until Dec. 2009, I was lucky to avoid any snags that would interrupt school.

December 2009 started talking to a recruiter for the NCP (I'm originally AF, tried to do the Army version of the NCP but they do not take ADN RN's, only those doing a traditional BSN - AF doesn't have anything for us priors), accepted to University and NCP Fall 2010 - April 2012 = just graduated. Approximately 5-6 years depending on what you need and route chosen.

Others may suggest the accelerate route - that's fine. I personally feel its a slight to the profession that an individual can have a degree in Art History and catch up to me within a year (in degree, not knowledge). Do what works best for you though.

[Mintyfreshness23]

Thank you deftonez188! I appreciate the timeline. By 2009 you already finished the ADN program at the CC correct? Congrats on graduating! You must be thrilled! I haven't looked much into what branch in the military I want to be a part of, but my intention is to be in one of them as an officer after I finish with my Nursing Program(s).

[deftonez188]

Yes, the navy is the only branch that offers an RN-BSN type entry to the NCP. The Air Force doesn't have one, and the Army candidate program didn't do ADN RN's I was told when I met with them.

The NCP is great for the guaranteed position, but the pay ($1000/month) isn't so hot. If you work on the side/have the GI Bill, you should be all set though.

[Mintyfreshness23]

I know that it most likely is very competitive for the NCP program from RN-BSN. What is your recommendation to be eligible and be chosen out of the well qualified professionals when it is time for me to apply?