Need some Air Force vs Navy nurse info

Published

I currently have my BSN and want to continue my education. Really wanting to get into CRNA school at some point. I currently have student loan debt and heard about military sign on bonuses, student loan repayment, etc. I also think joining could really give me some great experience and a chance to serve my country as well. Just wondering if any of you can give me any information you have on this. Air Force vs Navy, pay, training, etc. Thanks!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ED. ICU, PICU, infection prevention, aeromedical e.

Pay is the same for all services. You can look it up under benefits on military.com. It is based on years in service and rank. New grad come in as O-1. Years of experience do impact the rank you come in as, depending on which branch I think. As a reference in the AF: 15 years experience with national certification of CCRN, and a masters degree bought me an O-3 .

There are student loan paybacks and bonuses (which are not guaranteed until papers signed). Most recent was up to $30,000 sign on and $30,000 student loan payback - minus taxes - for 6 years of service. But taking the $30,000 new accession bonus disallowed me to receive the CCRN yearly $20,000 bonus. So after 4yrs, I can get that if it is still available.

Some answers depend on your experience. There are great programs to get into that can allow you to go for CRNA. You need ICU experience. If you are not ICU before entering, you would have to apply for a fellowship program AFTER entering and serving for some set time.

Get with your local nurse recruiter - check at the branches web sites to find closest to you. Do not go to the recruiters in the malls - they can't help and could give wrong info as they focus on enlisting rather than commissioning. It is a long frustrating paperwork journey to be accepting into any of the branches. Ask at all branches to start off with, then narrow your choice.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion