FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to serve in the Army while in the ROTC?

No, you are not in the Army while in the ROTC. You will be a cadet and go through types of military training. Your main priority is getting your education.

Do I have to serve in the Army after I graduate?

If you are a contracted cadet with or without receiving a scholarship, yes you will have to serve in the Army following graduation. As a contracted cadet, you will earn your commission as a Second Lieutenant after graduation. You will then go on to further military schooling and assignment in the Active Duty, Army Reserves, or National Guard.

If you are a non-contracted cadet, you can take the first two years of ROTC classes without having to serve in the Army.

What is my military commitment/service obligation?

You will be required to serve a total of 8 years in the Army following your commission. The 8-year commitment will be 4 or 6 years of active service with either 4 or 2 years serving in the Inactive Ready Reserves.

What is the difference between Active Army, Army Reserves, and Army National Guard?

Active Duty soldiers work full-time in the Army.  They are assigned to any number of active duty military installations around the world. Active Duty makes up the majority of the operational force of the Army

Reserves and National Guard serve part-time in the Army and can maintain other full-time employment while serving their Country. They are used to augment the Active Duty forces. Reserves are under the command of the federal government. National Guard is under the command of the state governor in the state they serve. Guardsmen can be placed on federal orders for mobilizations and deployments. 

What is the difference between enlisted and commissioned officer?

Enlisted personnel and officers fill different types of jobs. Enlisted make up the majority of the military’s personnel. They function in specific technical, tactical, and operational roles such as maintenance, infantry, and logistics. Officers are appointed to their office and rank through a Presidential commission. They are responsible for management, planning, writing and giving orders.  ne must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university to become an officer. 

How is my school and class schedule affected by being in the ROTC?

Your ROTC classes are scheduled just like any other college class. Each course includes both a lecture and a lab. You can learn more in the About and Cadet Life sections of this website. Labs meet once a week, usually in the morning before your regular classes start. You’ll also take part in two field training exercises each semester, which typically run from Friday to Saturday or Saturday to Sunday.

At the beginning of each semester, you’ll get a letter outlining all training events and any potential scheduling conflicts. You’re required to show this letter to your instructors so they’re aware of anything that might overlap with class. Make sure you communicate any conflicts with the ROTC cadre—you can request excusals from training events when needed. The ROTC staff will do their best to work with your schedule and avoid interfering with your academic responsibilities.

Can I participate in athletics while being a member of the ROTC?

Yes, you can definitely take part in organized sports.  Participation is encouraged. The Three Rivers Battalion cadre will help you coordinate around your practice and game schedules. Just make sure you stay in touch and keep both the ROTC cadre and your coaches updated about any scheduling conflicts.

Am I limited to what degree I can pursue as a member of the ROTC?

No, you don’t have to pick a specific major to become a Second Lieutenant in the Army. You can study whatever you’re interested in and still commission. Your major doesn’t have to match the branch or job you get in the Army—except for nursing majors, who will commission directly into the Nurse Corps.