ROTC FAQs
Looking for answers?
No. Students who enroll in ROTC don’t join the Army. They take an ROTC class for which
they receive credit. It’s considered a college elective.
No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn their degree.
ROTC cadets spend their time like typical college students. All that is required is
a few hours a week.
Quite simply, the leadership and management skills needed to become a U.S. Army officer
or have a successful civilian career.
Students in ROTC learn through a unique program that involves both classroom and “live”
situations. For instance, an ROTC cadet might be found leading classmates through
adventure training, or down a river in a raft, or up a mountain wall.
During the first two years, ROTC cadets have no military obligation (or the first
year in the case of scholarship winners).
The ROTC program is divided into phases. The Basic Course teaches Army history, organization
and structure. Techniques and principles of leadership and management are stressed
throughout this phase. The Advanced Course concentrates on tactical operations and
military instruction, as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership and
command.
Yes. Each year hundreds of students attending colleges nationwide receive ROTC scholarships.
ROTC awards them to students studying science, engineering, nursing, business, as
well as a variety of other majors.
ROTC scholarships are not based on financial need. Instead, they’re awarded on merit.
Merit is exhibited in academic achievement and extracurricular activities, such as
sports, student government or part-time work.
Anyone can enroll in ROTC. And regardless of whether you’re a scholarship winner or
not, all ROTC books, supplies and equipment are furnished at no cost to you.
In college and after graduation, cadets find that the training and experience they
receive are assets – whether pursuing an Army or civilian career. Employers place
high regard on the management and leadership skills cadets acquire in the ROTC program.
ROTC experience looks great on a resume. When cadets complete the ROTC course, upon
graduation, they become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.