Overview & Requirements

Here is some general information and requirements for the Military Science Program at Appalachian State.

 

Department of Military Science and Leadership (MSL)

The Army ROTC program provides college men and women the best available training and experience in the art of leadership. This program includes instruction to develop self-discipline, physical stamina, and poise, as well as the organizational and motivational skills that contribute to success in any career.

The BASIC COURSE consists of the freshman and sophomore years of military instruction (MSL 1001, MSL 1002, MSL 2001, and MSL 2002) and is strictly voluntary. These courses are short (1 or 2 hour) courses providing an overview of the military with opportunities for outdoor training and adventure. Individuals taking these ROTC courses incur no military service obligations. Almost every student eligible to attend Appalachian State University is also eligible to take these courses.

BASIC CAMP (MSL 2003), a four week outdoor, challenging summer camp, may be substituted for the BASIC COURSE. This summer camp is normally taken between the sophomore and junior years. Graduates of Basic Camp may be eligible to receive a scholarship covering tuition, fees, and a monthly stipend for their remaining two years of college. Partial or complete BASIC COURSE credit is available for prior military service or previous ROTC training. Contact the Department of Military Science and Leadership for details.

The ADVANCED COURSE consists of junior and senior years of military instruction (MSL 3001, MSL 3002, MSL 3823, MSL 4001, MSL 4002) and successful completion of the ROTC National Cadet Leadership Camp (CLC,MSL 3003), normally taken between the junior and senior years. This course of instruction is offered to those cadets meeting the necessary qualifications. Upon successful completion of the advanced course, the cadet may be offered a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, Army Reserves, or Army National Guard.

Minor in Military Science and Leadership. A minor in Military Science and Leadership is available to students who successfully complete the 19 semester hours required in the ADVANCED COURSE, including MSL 3001, MSL 3002, MSL 3003, MSL 3823, MSL 4001, and MSL 4002.

Scholarships

Two-year, three-year, and limited four-year scholarships are offered by the Department of the Army. These scholarships pay the full cost of tuition, a flat rate fee for textbooks, lab fees and other educational expenses for the duration of the award. They also provide a sustenance allowance of $420 a month up to 10 months of each academic year for which the award is in effect. Participation in the Army ROTC scholarship program does not preclude the holding of other scholarships. Additionally, the Simultaneous Membership Program, in which a student participates with either the National Guard or Reserve and ROTC, can provide financial incentives. More information may be obtained from the recruiting officer or the departmental chair of the Department of Military Science and Leadership.

Basic Course Qualification Requirements

A candidate for freshman and sophomore level ROTC training must:

  1. Be of good moral character
  2. Be a citizen of the United States
  3. Be able to graduate before 30 years of age
  4. Be physically able to participate in the program of instruction
  5. Meet other entrance requirements as determined by the departmental chair, current Army regulations, and University policies

A student who does not meet all of the above requirements should consult with the Department of Military Science and Leadership to determine if waivers can be granted.

Basic Course Texts and Uniforms

Texts are available through the University book rental system. Uniforms are furnished by the government. Students will be required to reimburse the government for loss of uniform items or other equipment.

Advanced Course Qualification Requirements

A candidate for junior and senior level ROTC training must:

  1. Meet all requirements for the basic course
  2. Have a minimum of two years remaining at the University
  3. Meet medical requirements for advanced course
  4. Possess qualifications for becoming an effective Army officer
  5. Have satisfactorily completed the basic course, received a waiver, have satisfactorily completed the leadership course, or have served as an enlisted person in the active or reserve armed forces with an honorable discharge
  6. Have satisfactorily completed loyalty requirements
  7. Accept a commission if offered in either the active Army, Army Reserves, or National Guard
  8. Meet other requirements as determined by the departmental chair, current Army regulations, and University policies

A student who does not meet all of the above requirements should consult with the Department of Military Science and Leadership to determine whether waivers can be granted.

Advanced Course Text and Allowances

Texts are available through the University book rental system. Each cadet enrolled in the advanced course receives subsistence pay at the rate of $420 per month for up to 20 months. They are paid a travel allowance to and from advanced camp. While at camp, cadets are paid approximately $950. The total pay and allowances received while in the advanced course are approximately $10,450.