Frequently Asked Questions
What is ROTC?
ROTC stands for Reserve Officers' Training Corps. It is a program of study leading to a presidential appointment as a second lieutenant in the United States Armed Forces.
What is Military Science?
Military Science is the name of the academic department that provides ROTC instruction at Western Kentucky University. The program includes a specified sequence of leadership, management, and professional knowledge classes as well as "hands on" leadership experience.
Is enrolling in Army ROTC the same as joining the Army? Once a student starts taking ROTC courses, is he/she obligated to join the Army?
Enrolling in the ROTC Basic Course (the first two years of college) does NOT obligate someone to serve unless they have also received a scholarship. Enrolling in Army ROTC is not, "joining the Army." You will not be sent to "boot camp." However, the primary purpose of the Army ROTC program is to produce its Officers, so young adults must agree to serve as Officers in the Army after graduation in order to go through the entire program, or if they have received an ROTC scholarship.
Is WKU Army ROTC like "boot camp"?
No. ROTC cadets go directly to college where they earn their degree.
Are all college majors compatible with Army ROTC?
Army ROTC Cadets are allowed to major in nearly all academic areas.
Does military science count as a "minor"?
Participation and graduation from Army ROTC will give students a minor in Military Science, if they choose so.
What makes ROTC different from regular college management courses?
Students in ROTC learn through a unique program that involves both classroom and "live" situations. For instance, an ROTC cadet might be found leading classmates through adventure training, down a river in a raft, or up a mountain wall.
Will ROTC conflict with my other classes?
No. Military science classes are scheduled just like any other class. We have a planned curriculum designed to not conflict with most WKU course requirements. If a scheduling conflict arises, the instructor will make every effort to work through it with you.
What do ROTC students do?
Mainly, they are just like any other college student. They earn an academic degree and learn to think and reason at the college level. Along the way they will learn leadership skills and have experiences that will set them apart from their peers. These skills and experiences will qualify them to become officers in the US Army. Upon graduation, they are placed in job positions as Second Lieutenants, either on active duty or in the Army Reserve or National Guard.
Can Graduate Level students enroll in Army ROTC?
Yes, Graduate Level students can enroll in Army ROTC. The Western Kentucky University Army ROTC program has had students seeking their Master’s Degrees successfully complete the program. Additionally, the Army ROTC program actively seeks students pursuing critical skill areas such as doctors, pharmacy, chaplains, and attorneys.
What is the ROTC curriculum comprised of?
The ROTC program is divided into phases: The Basic Course focuses on Army history, organization, and structure. The techniques and principles of leadership and management are stressed throughout along with an emphasis on basic military skills. The Advanced Course concentrates on tactical operations and military instruction, as well as advanced techniques of management, leadership, and command. You’ll learn a great deal. You’ll be well prepared to become an Army Officer, a leader, and a member of a team should you chose to complete the curriculum.
What kinds of scholarships are available in Army ROTC? Are any of the scholarships retroactive?
Army ROTC offers two-, three- and four-year scholarships, which pay full and fees, include a separate allowance for books and a monthly stipend of up to $5,000 a year. Army ROTC scholarships are not retroactive.
What is my Army service obligation to pay back any scholarship benefits, or for enrollment in the ROTC Advanced Course?
Scholarship winners must serve for four years; non-scholarship Cadets who enroll in the ROTC Advanced Course must serve for three years. All who graduate and complete ROTC training are commissioned as Second Lieutenants in the U.S. Army
Why should I choose Army ROTC over a different branch's ROTC?
The Army offers a wider range of career opportunities, in more places around the world, than any other U.S. military branch.
Can I go into the Army Reserve or National Guard after graduation instead of the regular Army?
Yes. Selected Cadets may choose to serve part-time in the U.S. Army Reserve or Army National Guard while pursuing a civilian career.
Can I enroll in ROTC while on Active Duty?
There is a new Green to Gold Active Duty Option Program. If you meet the qualifications for this program, you may apply.
How do students benefit from WKU Army ROTC?
In college and after graduation, cadets find that the training and experience they have received are assets - whether pursuing an Army or civilian career. Employers place high regard on the management and leadership skills that ROTC instructors stress. Additionally, ROTC looks great on a resume. When cadets complete the ROTC course, upon graduation, they become commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.
I heard a huge drill sergeant shaves my head when I join ROTC. Is that true?
Here's the deal with regard to hair. We do not cut anyone's hair. You must, however, meet the Army appearance standards. That may mean for males that you have shorter hair than you currently have , but no one gets his or her head shaved. Females must wear their hair up off the collar of the uniform.
Do ROTC students really have to run every morning at 0500 (That’s 5:00 A.M. for most of you)?
No. Our juniors and seniors along with all scholarship students are required to partake in Physical Training (PT) on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 6:30 to 7:30 A.M. For the rest, it is considered an recommended activity. We also offer the option for freshmen and sophomores to do PT on Monday or Thursday afternoons from 3:30 to 4:30. We strongly encourage a healthy lifestyle that incorporates a regular fitness program. Incidentally, we do more than run. We play sports, lift weights, do obstacle courses, and many other activities that are fun and get us into good physical condition.
Do I have any summer training requirements in ROTC?
Yes, during the summer between your junior and senior years of college (normally), all ROTC students will attend the Leader Development and Assessment Course (LDAC). This 5-week leadership experience is the culmination of your training thus far, and goes a long way in determining your future as an officer. There are many other summer training opportunities that are entirely optional, such as the Army Airborne or Air Assault schools, the Northern Warfare training camp, or Cadet Troop Leadership Training (CTLT).
What other colleges are associated with the WKU ROTC program
WKU is a host school. This means that the Hilltopper Battalion is the headquarters for Army ROTC in South Central Kentucky. Currently, students attending Western Kentucky University, Murray State University, Campbellsville University and Kentucky Wesleyan University may participate in the Army ROTC program.
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