ROTC FAQs

Q. What is the Army ROTC?
Army ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) is a program which can enhance your education by providing unique leadership training and management experience. The ROTC experience is a character builder that strengthens self-discipline, courage, integrity and physical stamina. It helps you develop the qualities necessary for success in either a military or civilian career. The skills you develop for successful command are the same skills you'll need for success in the corporate world. Students are given a valuable opportunity to build for the future by earning a college degree and an Army Officer's commission at the same time. ROTC programs produce more than 70 percent of the newly commissioned lieutenants entering the active Army each year. Many students delay active duty until completion of law, medical or graduate programs. Those students who do want to serve on active duty may be guaranteed Reserve or National Guard duty.

Q. Can only scholarship winners enroll in ROTC?
No. Anyone can enroll in ROTC. And regardless of whether you're a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books, supplies and equipment are furnished at no cost to you.

Q. By enrolling in ROTC are you joining the Army?
No. Students who are enrolled in ROTC don't join the Army. They take ROTC Courses for which they receive college credits. It's considered a college elective.

Q. By enrolling in ROTC, do I have to go to "boot camp"?
No. As a ROTC Cadet, you are not obligated to attend Boot Camp. Basic Training is designed for enlisted personnel. As a Cadet you are training to be an Officer.

Q. How much time does ROTC take up weekly?
ROTC Cadets spend their time like a typical college student. All that is required is a few hours a week.

Q. What can students expect to learn by Taking ROTC?
Quite simply, leadership and time management skills needed to become a U.S. Army officer or have a successful civilian career.

Q. Is there a military obligation during college?
No. There is no obligation until you have graduated.

Q. Does Army ROTC offer scholarships?
Yes. Each year hundreds of students attending colleges nationwide receive ROTC scholarships. ROTC awards them to students studying science, engineering, nursing, business, as well as a variety of other majors.

Q. How much money does ROTC usually award and what does the money go towards?
Scholarships are awarded at different monetary levels. At Coppin, the ROTC scholarship is worth $52,000 for a Maryland resident and $104,000 for a non-Maryland resident. The ROTC scholarship goes towards tuition, fees, and books. If you are in the Honors Program the award will pay for Room and Board.

Q. On what basis are scholarship winners chosen?
ROTC scholarships are not based on financial need. Instead, they're awarded on merit. Merit is exhibited in academic achievement and extracurricular activities such as sport, student government or part-time work.

Q. How do students benefit from Army ROTC?
In college and after graduation, Cadets find that the training and experience they receive are assets—whether pursing an Army or civilian career. Employers place high regards on the management and leadership skills that ROTC instructors stress. Plus, ROTC looks great on a resume. When Cadets complete the ROTC course, upon graduation, they become commissioned officers in the U. S. Army.