Frequently Asked Questions

No. Students who enroll in a Military Science class do not join the Army. You can take the first four classes for elective credit. Try it; you may like it.

ROTC is not taught by Drill Sergeants. Cadets attend college and earn a degree at the same time as completing the ROTC program. Cadets learn how to be leaders in addition to learning the basic Soldier skills.

If you enjoy getting out of the classroom, you will find many ROTC events and training exercises are fun. We incorporate sports, paint ball, helicopter rides, live fire ranges, obstacle courses, social activities, and field trips into the program. You will make life-long friendships as well.

All students will learn leadership, management, and personal life skills that are necessary to be a leader in the U.S. Army or any civilian career.

Military Science is a unique program that involves both classroom and "live" situations. For instance, an ROTC Cadet might be found leading classmates through adventure training, down a river in a raft, or up a mountain wall.

In college and after graduation, Cadets find that the training and experience that they have received are assets - whether pursuing an Army or civilian career. Employers place high regard on the management and leadership skills that ROTC instructors stress. Plus, ROTC looks great on a resume.

Best of all, when Cadets complete the entire ROTC course, upon graduation, they commission as officers in the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserves, or National Guard.

The program is divided into two phases: the Basic Course and the Advanced Course.

The Basic Course consists of the freshman and sophomore level classes, which focus on Army organization and structure, personal development, techniques and principles of leadership, and basic Soldier skills like map reading and drill and ceremony.

The Advanced Course for contracted juniors and seniors concentrates on small unit leadership. Cadets apply the principles of leadership to tactical and everyday operations. Cadets learn advanced techniques of problem solving, planning, supervising, and commanding military units. Advanced course Cadets may also pursue a Minor in Military Science and Leadership.

Yes! ROTC has scholarships and programs specially designed for nursing students.

Yes. Our scholarships cover tuition and fees as well as books and some living expenses. Scholarships are awarded on a merit basis to students of all majors. We have 4-, 3-, and 2-year options.

Scholarships are awarded throughout the year. High School students should apply online by the end of December. Apply online through Cadet Command. Also, once students are on campus, two-year and three-year scholarships become available.

No. The Basic Courses are open to all Lander students. Regardless of whether you're a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books, supplies, and equipment are furnished at no cost to you. Contracted Cadets, with and without scholarships, may take the Advanced Courses.

Contracting is the formal agreement to serve in the Army as a commissioned Second Lieutenant after graduation. To contract, you must meet the medical, physical fitness, and academic standards set by the U.S. Army. All scholarship winners sign a contract. However, you may sign a contract without a scholarship. Contracts are for 8 years of service on active duty in the Army, in the Reserves, or in the National Guard.

Contracted Cadets are expected to adhere to the Army values and follow the honor code. All Cadets must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and always be able to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test. Each semester Cadets must participate in Military Science classes, laboratory exercises, physical fitness training, and organizational activities.

Yes. All contracted Cadets are paid a tax-free monthly stipend during the school year as well as a book allowance. Freshmen receive $300 per month. Each year it increases. Seniors receive $500 per month.

Absolutely! You can do both. Simultaneous members of the Reserves and Guard attend college, participate in unit drills, and may contract with ROTC in pursuit of a commission as an officer.

Yes. Contracted Simultaneous Members collect drill pay, veteran's benefits, tuition assistance, the ROTC monthly stipend, and the ROTC yearly book allowance.