Should I pursue a commission in Civil Affairs in the Reserves after I receive my Master's degree? How long does the process take?

2021-05-01T04:49:07-04:00

I'm thinking about applying to a Reserve component after I receive my Master's degree. I am interested in Civil Affairs (Army)/Individual Augmentee (Navy) in the Reserves.

My Master's degree is in archaeology/cultural resource management. I have internship and working experience with field school, museums, and libraries.

My Bachelor's degree was in political science with a minor in history. I have also traveled extensively throughout Europe until the coronavirus hit.

Direct commissioning sounds intriguing: Captain/Lieutenant to Colonel/Captain.

Do you think I should apply after I graduate? How long does the process usually take?

Response by LTC Charles T Dalbec made May 1 at 2021 10:11 AM

2021-05-01T10:11:01-04:00

What makes you think that you can get a DA or even in CA? I would think you’d just be satisfied with being a member of the Armed Services.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 1 at 2021 10:15 AM

2021-05-01T10:15:36-04:00

If you're going to school and want to be an officer you should do ROTC

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made May 1 at 2021 2:02 PM

2021-05-01T14:02:12-04:00

Recommend you simply Google the question, then pose a question if the relevant information available doesn't cover it. BTW expect an O-2 offer at best if there isn't a pile of open billets. No service needs to pump up grade needlessly. Also, coming in at a higher grade means you're less competitive for promotion because you don't have the experience of those who started out lower on day one.

My 5 seconds of mouse work: https://talent.army.mil/job/civilaffairs-reserve/

Army Civil Affairs Officer- Reserves - U.S. Army Talent Management

The Army is looking for uniquely qualified individuals that have worked human resources departments? Do you want a challenging career in the army?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2021 7:06 AM

2021-09-14T07:06:56-04:00

Did you ever follow up on this?
The Army does do direct commissions in needed specialty areas.
This changes from time to time based on the needs of the Army.
You should hike down to the local recruiting station and talk to a recruiter who can look up the most up to date information. They get messages regularly from Recruiting Command regarding open and closed programs and where to concentrate their recruiting efforts.
Or if you are really interested right now go to https://www.goarmy.com/
search for Direct Commission there. Or search for Officer to see all officer procurement programs.
If you are serious you need to do your homework.

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