Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to join the Army to participate in Army ROTC?

No, you don’t have to join the Army.  Army ROTC is simply an elective course.  In fact, you can take up to four courses (GMS 101, 102, 201, & 202) without contracting as an Army ROTC Cadet.  To enter the Army ROTC Advance Course (GMS 301, 302, 401, & 402) though, you must contract with the Army.

Dedicating yourself to a career such as the one Army ROTC offers upon graduation is a big decision.  We want you to be as comfortable with it as possible.  If it sounds interesting, take one of our Basic Course classes to become acquainted with the Army, with no obligation.

There's a lot of stuff going on in the world.  Will I have to deploy while I'm an Army ROTC Cadet?

Remember, our goal, ultimately, in Army ROTC is to commission quality CalU graduates into the U.S. Army.  We can't do that if you have not graduated yet.  While you are a contracted Cadet with Army ROTC, you are not eligible to deploy.  Your mission is to be the best student and Cadet you can be and graduate!

I'm a graduate student.  There's no way I could do Army ROTC, right?

No, you indeed can be a Cadet!  Graduate students can participate in Army ROTC just like any other student and are eligible for the same scholarship awards.

I'm 26.  Can I be a Cadet?

Yes.  The Army prefers you be commissioned by the age of 30.  In fact, if you are awarded a scholarship, you must be below 30 on the day you earn your commission.  Now, if you are not receiving a scholarship or any benefits from Army ROTC, you can be up to 32, but a waiver is required.

I have a wife and two kids.  Can I be a Cadet?

Yes, you can have up to three dependents.  Admittedly though, we examine each case individually.  Training to be an Army Officer can require a lot of focus and dedication and will require you to be away on an occasional weekend, and at least a month between your third and fourth year as a Cadet (see Leader Development and Assessment Course under Summer Training page).  A careful examination must be made by both the potential Cadet and the Cadre.

It might.  Come in and talk to us about it.  Dependent upon your infraction(s), it may not be as serious as you think.  Realize, though, that eventually seeking a Commission in the U.S. Army means you will need a Secret Security Clearance from our Government.  Not reporting your "past" is not an option and non-disclosure will bring a request for you to withdrawal from our program.  Bring it to our attention initially and don't make the assumption that you are disqualified without speaking to us.  

Officers are ethical "standard bearers".  We do the right thing, even when no one is watching.  It sounds corny, but it's how we strive to live.  The Army Values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Integrity, and Personal Courage (LDRSHIP) lead us in ethical decision making everyday.