Can I enter Army as E-4 with a Liberal Studies Bachelor's Degree or does it have to be a concentrated area?

Question

I have about 90 credits over 5 years time, and I am not sure what I want to major in now. I am thinking of joining the national call to serve(15 months active duty, basic, AIT) or 2-3 year option in Army. I'm interested in 44C (Financial Mgt. Technician).If I go ahead one more year of college(bachelor's of science in Liberal Studies), can I join as an E-4 instead of E-3? Army has shorter terms and can chose MOS as opposed to Air Force. My husband is a Health Care Specialist for over 4 years(E-4). We're in Oahu. He wants to be officer, and eventually retire in Army. We are trying to get a solid foundation before we have kids. I would like to contribute more since I am not getting anywhere fast with my schooling. Any suggestions, additional information regarding enlistment lenghts, choice of MOS, college options, etc? What about both spouses military arrangements? We are 23 and 22 btw. Better to just join now or worth it to finish to get Liberal Studies(BS)?

Answer 1

The very first statement isn't true, you can go in as an E-4 with a bachelor's degree depending on the MOS and current needs. Hell, you don't even need a BA or BS for many MOS's. In 2004 I know for a fact Korean linguists were being brought in as E-4's and prmoted to E-5 within 6 months. Pissed a lot of us off who took the long route. If you want to know if a BA will get you E-4 for that MOS, the career counselors at MEPS will know for certain, although your recruiter should know as well. It is definately worth it to finish your BS.

The second statement is flat out false. The Army is contractually bound to train you in the MOS listed on your enlistment contract. If they try to reclass you, you can be honorably discharged because of this breach of contract. The catches are that if you fail training, then the contract MOS no longer applies and you will be assigned by the needs of the Army, and the second catch is that once you reach your duty station, you might be assigned another job: i.e. a cargo specialist being put in an S-4 to be an administrative clerk.

Answer 2

Yes you can enter the Army as an E-4 with a degree. The only downside is that it will at least take a minimum of 2-3 years before you make E-5 to establish skill and leadership qualities. The MOS you have chosen is a fine choice for your type of education you can also check into 42A which is personnel. Now if you happen to join the Army before he goes to OCS then things won't be as bad with him being an officer and you enlisted. The best choice though is to finish get the degree and then join the Army. Just remember finish school first then make your decision. I know these things because I'm in the Army and also what a good thing is and don't give it up. Be smart.....

Answer 3

Just be aware that "choosing" your MOS is a joke.

That is just listing a preference....like saying you're prefer it didn't rain next week. The Army is NOT obligated to assign you to your MOS, or a similar one.

You get put where you are needed....recruiters won't tell you this.....but it is in the fine print of your contract.

Answer 4

Well unfortanetly u cant go in as an E4, the highest u can is E3. U might as well go one more year and go into OCS for an officer..doesnt matter what your major is unless your going for like legal or something like that. Honestly u might as well go the one more year, go to OCS, and then try to get into the Finance Corps.