The military science curriculum is divided into two parts: (1) the Basic Course, two years of lower division study during which students must complete 12 units of coursework and (2) the Advanced Course, two years of upper division study consisting of 14 units of coursework and a six-week summer camp.
Transfer students and others who were unable to enroll in the Basic Course can receive equivalent credit in several different ways (see Two-Year Program below).
Admission to the Advanced Course is limited to selected students who meet all academic and physical requirements. Students in this course receive a subsistence allowance of $150 a month for 10 months during each of the two academic years, plus military science books and uniforms. After completion of the Advanced Course and graduation, students have the opportunity to be commissioned as second lieutenants in one of the Army's 17 specialty areas in either the Army National Guard, Reserves, or Active Army. Students' preferences are a major factor in determining which specialty is awarded.
Students selected for Advanced ROTC must attend a six-week Advanced Camp between their Military Science III and IV years. Cadets receive an allowance for travel expenses and are paid for attendance.
The active duty obligation for those students selected to enter the Reserves or National Guard is for initial training, and only for a period of several months. Students accepting ROTC Scholarships and a commission in the Regular Army, or who are selected to enter the Active Army, serve longer terms. ROTC students wishing to obtain advanced degrees may be granted a delay in reporting to their initial assignment.
Students are enrolled in the Basic Course (freshman and sophomore years) on a voluntary basis. After completion of the Basic Course and before entrance into the Advanced Course (junior and senior years), students are required to execute a contract with the Department of the Army agreeing to complete the Advanced Course and accept a commission if offered.
The two-year program is designed for students who receive placement credit for two years of ROTC and directly enter the Advanced Course. Placement credit may be given for completing three years of high school Junior ROTC, attending a paid ROTC Basic Camp, membership in the Army Reserve or National Guard, completing two years of college-level Air Force or Navy ROTC, or previous active duty military service.
Successful completion of the Advanced Course program and a bachelor's degree may lead to a commission as a second lieutenant in the Army Reserve, National Guard, or Active Army. Distinguished graduates may qualify for a commission in the Regular Army.