Army: Military Science (ROTC)

Why Study This Program?

The Millersville Reserve Officers Training Corps' (ROTC) Military Science program is a leadership-development program aimed at deepening the liberal-arts experience by cultivating the ability to organize, motivate and lead others. It is the cornerstone of Army officer training that develops students, known as Cadets, into future officers in the U.S. Army. 

Graduates of this program will be sufficient critical thinkers, educated in all aspects of military history. They will have a background in leadership and management. Students who complete these advanced courses are prepared for service as commissioned officers in the active Army, or part-time in the Army Reserve or Army National Guard. Newly commissioned officers must serve in the active or reserve component for 8 years (3-4 years on active duty and the remainder with the Individual Ready Reserve, or part-time with the Army National Guard or Army Reserve).

What Will You Learn?

This four-year program consists of basic courses and advanced courses. Basic courses are typically taken during the first and second years and include one class per week, physical training and a leadership lab while advanced courses are typically taken during junior and senior year and include one class per week, physical training and leadership exercises over several weekends each semester. Students should expect to take courses regarding military science, tactics and issues, with an emphasis on self/team development and leadership. The curriculum includes classroom instruction and practical exercises such as orienteering, paintball, rappelling and field training exercises. In the summer between their junior and senior years, Cadets attend a four-week Leadership Development and Assessment Course at Fort Knox, Kentucky. 

Participation in military science courses during the freshman and sophomore years results in no military obligation. Individuals who elect to continue in and successfully complete the program during their junior and senior years can receive a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, National Guard or Army Reserves upon graduation. Upon graduation and commission, they will incur an eight year service obligation.

Opportunities exist for specialized summer training, including cultural trips abroad, Cadet Troop Leader Training, Airborne School, Air Assault School, Mountain Warfare School and internships with active-duty Army units or federal government agencies