How to Become an Army Officer

The United States Army needs aviation, infantry, artillery and signals officers just to name a few. In order to prepare men and women for the opportunity to lead the troops, the Army has four major commissioning methods. These methods are the United States Military Academy, ROTC, Officer Candidate School and Direct Commissioning. Read on to learn how to become an Army officer.

Things You'll Need

• Internet Connection
• Computer

Instructions

1. Learn about the different career opportunities open to Army officers. In addition to fields such as infantry, tanks and artillery, the Army has groups such special operations, intelligence and civil engineering.

2. Read about the different ways to become an Army officer. Decide which fits you the best. Whether or not you want to be in the Army during college may decide this for you.

3. Decide where you want to go to college. If you want structure and history West Point may be the place for you, but if not, six hundred schools throughout the country either host or are affiliated with Army ROTC programs.

4. Check the eligibility requirements to ensure that you are qualified. All methods have basic age requirements and require that you be an U.S. citizen. Additional requirements may exist depending on the program.

5. Go to college. You must graduate from college in order to become an Army officer through one of these programs.

6. Get in shape. The Army training programs are designed to be physically rigorous.

7. Begin your application process on line at the Army website.

Tips & Warnings

• The Army is looking for smart, physically fit and honest leaders.

• If you have already graduated from college then the Officer Candidate School is the path available.

• The Army has a Direct Commissioning Program for trained doctors, lawyers and chaplains.

• There are ways to become an officer if you are currently enlisted.

• Follow directions and do not miss deadlines.