Military Science (Army ROTC) Minor

The Army ROTC program in Military Science offers an academically challenging and practical curriculum which can be completed in eight semesters or a compressed program of either four or six semesters. The military science curriculum supplements the university’s baccalaureate or postgraduate studies. The Army is prepared to award a commission to any deserving student based on both ROTC and academic achievement upon graduation.

The scope of the military science curriculum is oriented toward developing the best all-around student who demonstrates leadership and managerial skill, reacts well under pressure, and understands general military subjects. Student cadets attend classroom conferences and a leadership laboratory program.

Program Objectives

The overall objective of the ROTC program is to develop in the student cadet (through both classroom theory and practical application) the necessary traits, knowledge, proficiency, and experience needed to be commissioned as an officer in the United States Army. The candidate’s course of study includes a broad educational base, including academic subjects of particular value in both civilian and military pursuits. Student cadets develop expertise in the following subject areas:

1. General knowledge of the historical development of the United States Army and its role in support of national objectives.
2. Working knowledge of general organizational structure and how the various components of an organization operate as a team in the fulfillment of overall objectives.
3. Strong understanding of personal integrity, honor, and individual responsibility.
4. Knowledge of the human relationships involved in an organization and an understanding of the responsibilities of military service assignments.
5. The ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
6. Sufficient knowledge of military life to ensure a smooth transition from the civilian environment.

The curriculum prepares the student for military service.

Admission to the Program

The first two years of the ROTC program are called the Basic Program and are offered at the CSN and UNLV Campuses. Only the final two years, constitute the Advanced Program. The Advanced Program is open to undergraduate and graduate students who have successfully completed the Basic Program, the six-week ROTC basic summer camp, or those who have completed Basic Training and who have completed a minimum of 60 college credits.

The basic summer camp (Leader’s Training Camp) is normally scheduled after the student’s sophomore year. The basic summer camp substitutes for the basic program and is geared for students who join the ROTC program late and wish to finish the curriculum in four semesters (two years).

To be admitted into the Advanced Program, a student must:

1. Be a citizen of the United States and be regularly enrolled as a full-time student at the university.
2. Be able to complete the course, graduate and be commissioned prior to the 30th birthday (waivers are possible).
3. Have successfully completed such survey and screening tests as may be prescribed.
4. Have successfully passed a prescribed physical examination.
5. Be selected by the Professor of Military Science.
6. Have executed a written contract with the United States government.

As part of the advanced program, the student enters into a contract with the Army, whereby the individual agrees, contingent upon continued university enrollment, to complete the ROTC program (including advanced summer camp) and to accept a commission, if offered, upon completion of the degree program. To be eligible for commissioning, a student must earn at least a bachelor’s degree.

Volunteer Extracurricular Activities

Ranger Challenge Team

A highly competitive organization that provides additional military training for students who are preparing to become Combat Arms Officers. The Ranger Challenge Team competes annually as a varsity sport against teams from other colleges and universities in the western United States.

Financial Assistance

In the basic program, students with ROTC scholarships, or those contracted cadets receive up to $500/month. Students awarded two-, three- and four-year ROTC scholarships by the Department of the Army receive a per month subsistence stipend while enrolled in school (10 months per year maximum), as well as payment for tuition, fees, and books.

All other students formally enrolled in the advanced course are paid a per month stipend while enrolled in school, not to exceed a total of 20 months. Students are paid one-half of the base pay of a second lieutenant while attending the six-week summer camp training, plus travel pay to and from summer camp. The Military Science Department has a limited number of in-state and out-of-state fee waivers available each semester for students requiring financial assistance.

Additionally, the National Guard and Army Reserve pay up to 100 percent of the credit costs plus book reimbursement for students who elect to serve simultaneously in the National Guard or Army Reserve and ROTC.

Textbooks, Uniforms and Equipment

The U.S. government provides students with required textbooks, and provides uniforms and equipment to qualified cadets.

Uniforms are for use during MIL 100 and other training conducted by the program. Uniforms will be turned in at the end of each semester.