Want to become NAVY NURSE!*Need Advice!! :)

[vrfdd123]

Hi everyone!!

I am graduating in January 2011 with a bachelors of science in exercise & sport science. However, I am looking to pursue a second bachelors degree in nursing and REALLY want to join the Navy. Has been a dream of mine for years just never knew what career path I wanted to choose. I have been told about the Nurse Candidate Program by a recruiter but was wondering if I would be able to join an NROTC program while pursuing a second bachelors degree...these programs typically are accelerated (max 2 years). I'm just looking for information beyond the recruiters.. would love to hear from people who have either gone through/going through a similar situation. I guess I am just eager to get the ball rolling so ANY advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks and hope everyone had a nice holiday!! :)

-T

[oaktown2]

@josephstrahan - so did you apply as a new graduate for active duty? I am currently applying for the Navy NCP programs, but if that doesn't work out I am hoping to apply as a new grad, but I wasn't sure if they were taking many new grads beyond the NCP ones.

[vrfdd123]

I am hoping to apply for the NCP program as well... just waiting to be accepted into a program right now. I graduated with a BS in Ex. sport science in January and am looking to get into an accelerated BSN program for either this upcoming fall or next spring. My recruiter told me that I cannot start the application process until I have an acceptance letter. Is this the same for your case? How long does the NCP application process take? I have heard mixed stories...

[oaktown2]

Correct, I was not able to start the process without an acceptance. The process seems to depend on how many pieces of paper you need to collect - transcripts, medical records, etc. I am in the middle of it, so not really sure how long it will take, but I have heard that you want to begin by the end of May at the latest. If you don't have copies of your transcripts, you could start getting those now.

[josephstrahan]

Oaktown2 & vrfdd123: I have been in the NCP program since OCT 10'. I am due to graduate in August and will go active duty after I pass my boards sometime September. Yes, to my understanding you need to have a letter of acceptance prior to starting the process. Understand that due to the economic times the Navy can be very selective on whom they accept. Make sure that you have a GPA >3.0 and to be a strong applicant you really need to be more in the 3.2-3.5 range.

Now you have to think of a couple of things in regards to the NCP vs. straight commission after grad.

1) Do you need the money right now? If you wait to graduate then you can ask for Loan Repayment Program (LRP) depending on your years of commitment you can receive up to $50,000 to pay off your student loans.

2) If you need some money up front then NCP is a great option. It will provide you some security by having a guaranteed job after graduation upon passing your boards, and you can ask for (LRP) after serving two years at your first duty station.