Army officer in Oxford

Army officers command, manage and motivate teams of soldiers.

Working environment

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding and outdoors in all weathers.

Where you could work

You could work at a military base, be based overseas or in a warzone.

Uniform

You may need to wear a uniform and protective clothing.

Working hours

Variable; you could work evenings, weekends, or bank holidays (away from home).

Skills you'll need

• Thinking and reasoning skills
• Persistence and determination
• Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• Concentration skills
• The ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• The ability to work well with others
• To be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

How to become one

You could get into this job through:

• A university course
• A college course

College

You could work towards this role by doing a relevant subject like Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Public Services. This would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this career.

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

You can work towards this role by starting with an intermediate apprenticeship as a HM Forces Serviceperson. To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:

• Some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

You can apply directly for officer training. You'll need to be between 17 years 9 months and 28 years and 11 months; get a GP's medical report. You'll also usually need a minimum of GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths, science or a foreign language; 2 A levels or equivalent.

You'll be invited to talk to someone at your local army careers centre about what you want to do. You'll then attend an assessment, which includes medical and fitness tests.

You can join the army reserve as a part-time officer to get some experience of what life is like in the regular army and to learn new skills at the same time. You'll need to be between 18 and 49; commit to at least 19 or 27 days a year, depending on your unit; attend a 2-week training camp each year.

Career path and progression

With training and experience, you could rise up through the ranks from lieutenant to captain, major, colonel and beyond. On leaving active service, you could use your skills, qualifications and experience to go into a new career, for example in management, planning or teaching.

The Officers' Association gives advice and support to officers on finding a career outside the army. The Career Transition Partnership, Quest and Troops to Teachers also have more information on career options outside the armed forces.

You can find out more about this career from: You'll find more details about careers in the army, training and how to join through Army Careers.