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 the Army ROTC is not, strictly speaking, "joining the Army." You will not be sent to "boot camp."
However, the primary purpose of the Army ROTC program is to produce 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. 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
What good is Army ROTC for a career outside of the Army?
Army ROTC is one of the only college programs that teaches leadership. This training is
invaluable for any career that involves leading, managing, and motivating people or fostering
teamwork. Young Army Officers are typically responsible for hundreds of Soldiers and millions
of dollars in equipment; this kind of management experience can be very attractive to post-Army employers
Are all college majors compatible with Army ROTC?
Army ROTC Cadets are allowed to major in nearly all academic areas
What are Army Courses like? How will the class work help me? Will ROTC classes interfere with my other studies?
Army ROTC classes normally involve one course per semester that covers classroom, lab, and physical fitness instruction.
Although the classes involve hands-on fieldwork as well as classroom work, they are standard college classes
that fit into a normal academic schedule. These courses can help students with personal and academic
decision-making while giving them the tools to exercise leadership in college life, even before graduating
and becoming Officers
How will being an Army ROTC Cadet affect my daily life? Do cadets experience normal college life and activities?
Army ROTC Cadets have the same lifestyles and academic schedules as other college students. They join fraternities and
sororities. They participate in varsity team and individual sports. They take part in community service projects
Can I go into the Army Reserve or National Guard after graduation instead of the regular Army?
Yes. Cadets may choose to serve part-time in the US Army Reserve or Army National Guard while pursuing a civilian career
What is the typical career path for an Army Officer? What career fields are available?
Army ROTC graduates are commissioned as US Army Second Lieutenants. They then receive specialized training in
one of 17 different Army branches. During their Army careers, they will receive regular professional training as
they advance through the ranks, and they will have many opportunities for advanced leadership positions and
post-graduate education
What are the chances that I will be deployed?
ROTC cadets do not deploy. Once they are commissioned, however, it depends on the Army branch the Cadet chooses
and the unit to which he/she is assigned. All Soldiers in the Army or Army Reserve face the possibility of deployment
during their careers. But understand that all Soldiers are fully trained and proficient in the tasks and
drills of their units. And Officers are specifically trained to make the right decisions so that
missions can be carried out safely and successfully
How can I contact the University of Maryland Army ROTC program?
Phone: (301)314-9939
Phone: (301)314-9237
Email:
armyrotc@umd.edu