Navy Hospital Corpsman to RN ???

[vrfdd123]

Hi everyone!

So my last post I had asked some questions about joining the Navy as a Nurse. However, I have recently come across the Hospital Corpsman position and I was wondering if there was anyone out there that may have STARTED out as a corpsman and then later went on to get their BSN?? Is it possible? What is the process like? Pros and Cons of joining as corpsman and then becoming an RN? Any information would be GREATLY appreciated! Thanks so much :)

[HM2Doc]

You can "request" to be assigned to the Marines, but that doesn't mean you will be assigned to them. If the Navy needs you there then you will be sent. Chances are you will be able to go because not that many people enjoy being deployed a lot and shot at. Plus, Marine bases can be pretty strict on their enlisted people...especially the junior enlisted (which you will be). So yeah, it's definitely possible. DON'T let the recruiter feed you a bunch of BS though. If you want to go with the Marines he will probably tell you that it will definitely happen and that you will have so much fun blowing $hit up, camping, and having a good ole time with your marine buddies...this is a lie to get you to sign. I've never seen anyone who was guaranteed Corps School, FMSS (the school you need to go to in order to go with the marines), and a marine assignment, all on their enlistment contract. Plus, even if he could get your that it doesn't mean you will be out in Iraq doing the stuff you see in the movies. That isn't the only thing Corpsman do with the Marines. They also have things like Med Log where you organize supplies and push paperwork around...never done it myself, but i hear it sucks really bad.

Even though being a Corpsman is GREAT, I would say that 90% of them would give it up to become an officer. Most people walk around saying "man, i wish i was an officer." Which is why i got out and am now in nursing school. I'm going to join the Nurse Corps afterwards...and i'll still be working with HMs.

Any other questions?

[just_cause, BSN, RN]

I think the OPs idea of doing reserves in conjunction with pre-reqs is a great way to create a successful path towards either BSN or PA.

[heather in ohio]

Question regarding the Direct Accession...do you get a stipend or salary while in school for CRNA? I am debating on AFIT/HPSP/ and the Direct Accession routes. I have researched the first two fairly well however I do not know if the Direct Accession pays salary while in school- which would def set it apart from the other routes!

[jeckrn, BSN, RN]

If you go to CRNA school and you are on active duty you will recieve your full pay and allowances. As far as getting a stipend for one of the other programs it depends on the program. Getting into CRNA school once you are on active duty is very competitive and you have to wait a couple of years before you can apply for the school. Also, you will go to the military school not one of your choosing.