This paper examines the roles and responsibilities of registered nurses in both military and civilian contexts. Beginning with a brief history of modern nursing from post-World War I Nightingale training schools through the Nurse Cadet Corps of 1943, the paper outlines career development pathways, salary ranges by state for BSN-credentialed nurses, and the unique requirements of military nursing. It discusses the similarities and differences between civilian and military nursing, the educational commitments involved, and the range of specialties available across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The paper also addresses the challenges and rewards associated with choosing nursing as a military career.
Wherever you find a registered nurse, you encounter a person who plays a significant role in helping doctors care for patients. Modern nursing began after World War I with Nightingale training schools. Following both World War I and World War II, there was a greater need for both military and civilian nurses. Established in 1943, the Nurse Cadet Corps subsidized the education of thousands of young nurses who agreed to serve in nursing for the remainder of the war upon completing their training. Currently, there are around 11,000 nurses in military service. Because this field is so demanding, and because it is common for personnel to move from place to place and position to position, there are many opportunities to build a successful career in military nursing.
The following table details median salary ranges for nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree across various states, as reported by PayScale (2000–2005, USD, based on 998 responses):
Texas: $42,000 – $52,000 – $67,600 | California: $53,000 – $61,900 – $76,800 | Florida: $40,000 – $48,000 – $57,014 | Pennsylvania: $40,000 – $52,000 – $66,250 | New York: $50,000 – $60,000 – $70,500 | Ohio: $44,500 – $51,000 – $63,000 | Georgia: $42,000 – $52,730 – $61,332 | Illinois: $48,048 – $60,000 – $68,000
Comparing these figures nationally, the average salary for a BSN-credentialed nurse is approximately $40,000.
A typical career trajectory for a new military nurse begins under close supervision. Once the nurse has gained sufficient experience, he or she can expect to advance to positions such as nurse supervisor, Patient Care Coordinator, Charge Nurse, or Staff Nurse. Other avenues of career development may include becoming a Director of Nurses within a hospital — a role that involves managing all nursing services, advising hospital staff and administration on nursing matters, and overseeing nursing orientation and training programs. Nurses may also advance to senior health service management positions.
"Key distinctions between military and civilian nursing"
"Army, Navy, and Air Force nursing specialties"
"Pros, cons, and long-term career outlook"
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