Curriculum
The mission of the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (AROTC) is to commission future leaders of the United States Army. Since ROTC produces over 60 percent of the Army’s Officer Corps, our task is one of the most important undertakings in the Army and our country today. We seek top quality college students. We train these potential leaders, assess their abilities, and challenge them with the highest standards of professionalism. Those who successfully complete the program, receive a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Students may request to serve as an officer in either the active Army, or part time in the Army Reserve or National Guard
The College of Liberal Arts and Science offers a minor in Military Studies. Requirements for the minor include taking a minimum of 15 credit hours of ROTC instruction, which may be taken from one or a number of the ROTC programs. At least 6 credit hours must be in courses numbered 300 or higher.
MILS 1200. Introduction to Military Science.
This course examines the role of a Cadet in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps and a Lieutenant in the United States Army. The course explores a military culture whose ultimate success is determined by the character and proficiency of its’ leaders. Instruction introduces students to the cultural heritage and history of the U.S. Army. Students will begin to understand the structure of the U.S. Army and how it functions as an organization and institution. The curriculum promotes the development of students’ communication skills to enhance their ability to transmit ideas.
MILS 1210. Structure and Function of the U.S. Army.
This course instructs students on the fundamental skills and proficiencies required of Cadets in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps and Officers in the United States Army. Special focus is given to the emphasis the Army puts on the development and character of the leader and how that affects the culture and operation of the Army as an institution. Students will develop an understanding of the role that morals and ethics play in becoming an Army Officer and leading American Soldiers. Introduction to basic officer/soldier skills will explain the complex role of the Officer in the modern Army.
MILS 2200. Principles of Leadership and Communication Skills.
This course explores the development of leadership and communication skills by understanding and studying the principles, traits, and dynamics of leadership and effective communication techniques. These include; leadership dimensions, human behavior, time management skills, stress management, values and ethics, decision making process, problem solving skills, team building exercises, communication techniques, briefing skills, delegating, and counseling. Leadership assessment programs, role playing, active class participation, speeches, country briefs, and video clips are used to enhance and reinforce the instruction.
M S 2210 Map Reading and Land Navigation.
Class focuses on the characteristics and features of the earth’s land mass and how to apply different methods of conducting navigation on land. These methods include; by use of topographical maps, compasses, aerial photographs, military maps, symbols, and all their practical application. These navigation techniques are used in class in conjunction with patrolling techniques and squad movement exercises. Students will utilize verbal and non-verbal communication, communication techniques, and briefing techniques during this class.
Advanced Program
These courses are for students who have completed the basic program (or received equivalent credit) and are mandatory to contract into ROTC. These courses are primarily taught to academic juniors and seniors. In addition to the advanced program of study, a student (cadet) will be expected to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test each semester and continually maintain military appearance standards in both personal grooming and uniform.
MILS 3100. Methods of Instructing Military Skills.
This course develops student’s proficiency in analyzing, planning, and executing complex operations within a military organizational structure. Students are given situational opportunities and then measured on their leadership abilities through systematic feedback. Student’s evaluations are based on their ability to apply adaptability and critical thinking to complex situations within the realms of values, attributes, skills, and actions. Students develop an understanding of human cultural heritage and history, as it pertains to the armed forces.
MILS 3110. Applied Leadership.
Prepares students to attend the Cadet Leadership Course at Fort Knox, Kentucky where they will be assigned specific and situational tasks to accomplish by providing purpose, motivation, and direction to fellow students across the nation. Students will learn how to apply adaptive leadership and critical thinking to given situations. Students will develop their oral communication skills by presenting plans developed by the class, through small group presentation settings. Students will develop methods of studying human behavior.
MILS 4200. Seminar: The Military Team.
Cadets develop student proficiency in analyzing and evaluating leadership behaviors, such as values, attributes, skills, and actions. Students are given situational opportunities to assess leadership and provide feedback to other students placed in leadership roles. Students will be measured by their ability to both give and receive systematic and specific feedback on leadership behaviors. Students will develop their ability to communicate thoughts and ideas orally through small group presentations and group discussions. Students will supervise and evaluate the planning and execution of complex operations within a military organizational structure.
MILS 4210 Seminar: The Professional Military Officer.
Cadets explore the dynamics of leading in the complex situations of current military operations in a contemporary world. Students will examine the differences in customs, courtesies and operational principles in the face of international terrorism. Students will also explore aspects of interaction with nongovernmental organizations, civilians and media in a war zone and foreign national governments. The course uses case studies, scenarios, and practical exercises, which prepare the student to face complex ethical and practical demands of leading Soldiers within a multifaceted military organizational structure.
Military Science Leadership Lab.
Concurrent enrollment in corresponding MILS Class. The lab compliments the classroom instruction by providing the opportunity to practice what is learned in class. Freshman and sophomore cadets get instruction and development from the more experienced cadets. They hone their skills in marching, rifle marksmanship, and tactical patrolling; and increase professional knowledge in areas such as first aid, water survival, and land navigation. The juniors are responsible for developing the training programs, structuring the labs, presenting classes, and planning various events. They observe and participate in various levels of leadership positions at the platoon and squad level within the Army command structure. All training is monitored and evaluated by the senior cadets and supervised by cadre.
Army Physical Readiness.
Is designed to use basic military training skills and instruction to develop confidence, leadership, and physical fitness. The team approach is utilized in the instruction and application of Army physical fitness requirements. Students will learn various Army physical fitness techniques as well as how to conduct physical fitness sessions. Full participation in all events will be determined based on students physical and medical eligibility.
Basic Program
These courses are primarily for freshmen and sophomore students and, except for persons with prior military service and basic training graduates, are required for entry into the advanced program. No more than 10 credits in 100- and 200-level courses may be applied toward graduation. No military obligation is required to participate in these classes.