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Become a Cadet

ROTC is an open-enrollment program. Students can join in their first two years of college without any obligation. However, our program is very competitive and timely decisions are always critical to success.

If you are currently a high school senior and you already think or know that you are interested in a career as an Army commissioned officer, we strongly recommend applying for the Army ROTC 4 year National Scholarship (see Scholarships to left).

Current University students or high school students that did not apply for the National Scholarship that are interested in participating in the ROTC curriculum can simply enroll in the MLSC 101 (Fall only) or MLSC 102 (Spring only) course. There is no service obligation to enroll in these courses. Students in these courses will be explained the ROTC program and options for their future, including on-campus scholarship opportunities and the process/timelines for contracting/obligating. 

A student can contract (requires obligation to serve as an officer in the Army) with the Army ROTC Program, provided he or she:

  • meets the minimum requirement of a 2.5 GPA
  • meets the minimum requirement of a passing the Army's Physical/Combat Fitness Test
  • demonstrates above average leadership potential 
  • meets the medical qualification requirements
  • is a US Citizen

These are the absolute minimum requirements to contract and become obligated.  Contracts and scholarships are awarded based on merit to those showing great potential for service as a commissioned officer. 

ROTC also offers physical fitness classes aimed at preparing our students to excel physically. We allow students considering the Army as a career choice to participate in all the extra activities and training we offer.

Once contracted, students are considered Cadets. If you're interested in becoming a Cadet, you should contact the ROTC department. In most cases, you'll start by enrolling in MLSC 101 or 102.

 

Students having questions should contact an instructor.

Contracted Cadets are required to attend physical training every morning and their ROTC classes. Cadets must also complete a military history class as part of their requirements to commission. Our department recommends that students take HIST 381, Wars and Revolutions, offered through the History Department. In addition, there are weekend training requirements once per semester, and we work closely with the University to ensure Cadets are excused from classes for that absence.