FAQs About ROTC Programs

You probably know someone that is a member of your university or school's ROTC program. If you need to learn more about an ROTC program near you, you can read and find the answers to some common questions about ROTC and military education.

Q: What is ROTC?

A: ROTC stands for Reserve Officer Training Corps, and is a military officer commissioning and training program found on many United States college and university campuses.

Q: What does ROTC do?

A: ROTC offers students the opportunity to learn common military practices and methods for all branches of the United States Armed Forces, except the Coast Guard, while they complete school and pursue a degree. This is a great alternative to waiting until after completing military service to go to school and get an education.

Q: Who can join the ROTC?

A: With the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," any American citizen can comfortably join the ranks of the ROTC on their college campus. If you are over 18, a current American citizen and currently enrolled in classes at a college or university with an ROTC program, you can join.

Q: What are the benefits of ROTC?

A: Joining the ROTC offers many benefits. You can learn many great skills, such as self discipline, the importance of exercise and teamwork, how to survive outdoors and how to lead others effectively, to name a few. If you go on to actually join the military, you can also get your entire college education paid for in exchange for time served in the Armed Forces branch of your ROTC.