Reserve Officer Training Corps

ROTC: Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q - What is ROTC?
A - ROTC is the Reserve Officers Training Corps. It is the largest commissioning program that produces officers for the U.S. Army. It is structured as a college class in which one learns valuable leadership skills.

Q - What does ROTC involve?
A - ROTC is a college class that focuses on leadership training, self-confidence improvement and general introduction to the Army. Cadets enroll in one ROTC class per semester which meets twice a week. In addition, cadets participate in a leadership lab once a week, and a physical training program three mornings a week. The ROTC program is divided into two phases. The Basic Course (first two years) studies Army history, organization and structure. The techniques and principles of leadership and management are stressed throughout. The Advanced Course concentrates on tactical operations and military instruction, as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership and command. There are numerous other clubs and activities sponsored by the ROTC Department such as Color Guard, Ranger Challenge, military formals, and various other social activities.

Q - Am I joining the Army by signing up for ROTC?
A - NO, you are not joining the Army. Only if you are commissioned as a Second Lieutenant will you join the Army. There is no military obligation during the first two years of ROTC. During your junior year, however, you must sign a contract, the details of which will be explained to you at that time.

Q - Will I have to go to Boot Camp?
A - No, cadets do not attend Boot Camp. They do attend a 5-week Advanced Camp during the summer between their Junior and Senior years. Advanced Camp is designed to judge your ability to lead as an officer in the US

Q - Will ROTC help me pay for my school?
A - Yes, every year, thousands of students attending colleges nationwide receive ROTC scholarships. The deadline for four year scholarship applications is Nov. 15 of the year prior to the start of college. Applications are available by calling 1-800-USA-ROTC or on-line at Cadet Command. In addition to any money earned from scholarships or the GI Bill, ROTC pays a monthly stipend plus money each semester for books.

Q - If I am currently in the military or am a veteran am I eligible for ROTC?
A - Yes, there are several programs available for those with prior service. Please view our Scholarship section.

Q - Will I have to wear a uniform on campus all the time?
A - NO. Generally, cadets only wear their uniforms one day a week, usually on Thursday to coincide with leadership lab.

Q - I'm a sophomore, can I still join the program?
A - Yes. Sophomores entering in the fall semester will be considered compression cadets and will combine the first two years into one. Sophomores wishing to join may also attend Camp Challenge during the summer before their junior year.

Q - Are there other training opportunities in ROTC?
A - The Gateway Battalion hosts several extracurricular activities. Also cadets are eligible to attend Airborne, Air Assault, Northern Warfare, Mountain Warfare, or Cadet Troop Leadership Training, as well as many other programs during the summer.