Quick FAQs
What is ROTC?
ROTC stands for Reserve Officers' Training Corps. Army ROTC is in the Department of Military Science at South Dakota State University. Once cadets have completed requirements for a bachelor’s or graduate degree and the ROTC program, they will receive a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. Depending on their status, cadets may go on active duty, or stay in the Army National Guard or U.S. Army Reserve once commissioned. ROTC is the #1 source of commissioned officers in the nation, with a 75% share of brand-new Second Lieutenants.
How do I take classes?
It’s easy! Army ROTC courses are listed in the South Dakota State University Course Catalog under Military Science (MSL). Just register for the classes you want when you select your other courses for a semester. There is no military obligation to take the courses during the first two years of the program unless you are a scholarship winner. However, the MS III and MS IV classes are for eligible students only, and incur an obligation to the military.
Do I have an obligation to the military?
If you take only the first two years of the ROTC program (Basic Course), there is no military obligation, unless you are a 3-4 year scholarship cadet. In order to progress to the last two years of the program (Advanced Course), you must contract with the United States Army Reserve for an 8-year obligation—electing to serve on active duty or National Guard or Army Reserve, or a combination.
What if I go to another college or university?
Not a problem! The ROTC program can be found at over 270 Host schools in all 50 states and 4 territories, plus there are literally thousands of schools that have partnership agreements with Army ROTC. To find a participating school in a location of you choice go to www.armyrotc.com and select the Find A School tab.
What if I’m a college senior going on to graduate school or a graduate student now?
Students in this category must be able to complete the Advanced Course. This requires 4 concurrent semesters in full time student status (minimum 12 credits). If a student has no prior military training (active duty, National Guard or Reserve, JROTC, or ROTC Basic Course), then they are required to attend the Leadership Training Course the summer prior to their first fall semester. Exceptions are sometimes made depending on circumstances. Contact the Department of Military Science to see how you can make the program work for you.
What kinds of jobs are available?
Full and part-time opportunities exist in a number of career fields, such as: Logistics, Engineering, Aviation, Nursing, Military Police, and Computer Electronics. There are sixteen basic career fields, and several specialized fields, such as Dental, Veterinary, Medicine, and Law. (For a complete list of fields, please see the Career Benefits section of this guide.)
How much money can I make?
Brand-new Second Lieutenants on active duty earn approximately $38,000 per year, including housing allowance and other compensation. Don’t forget—soldiers earn 30 days annual paid vacation while on active duty and have full medical/dental coverage. Part-time opportunities exist in the National Guard and Reserve, where officers are paid for one weekend of drill per month and two weeks of Annual Training. Guard and Reserve Officers will also receive active duty pay while training for their specific career field. Financial benefits available to cadets are listed in this program guide.
What skills will I learn?
Participants in the ROTC program develop critical skills in management, leadership, and analytical decision-making that are valuable to any civilian or military career. Students gain confidence, self-discipline, and technical experience. New lieutenants will enter the workforce as a leader and supervise as many as 45 people, while being accountable for hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of assets. Civilian employers want your leadership experience and technical knowledge. If you decide to leave the military many opportunities await you.
Who do I talk to?
Come and visit the program. Talk to cadets and cadre (staff) to see if the program is right for you. Come and talk to the Admissions and Scholarship Officer who will help you learn how ROTC can help you meet your goals.
click here 
|
