Become a Symbol of Strength at UofL Army ROTC

Become a Symbol of Strength at UofL Army ROTC

Want to stand out during your college years while preparing for an incredible future? The University of Louisville's Army ROTC program offers you the perfect blend of traditional college experience and leadership development.

What Makes ROTC Special?

When you join Army ROTC, you're working toward more than just a diploma - you're laying the foundation for a bright future as a leader. But don't worry, you're a student first! You'll follow a regular college schedule while adding exciting classroom and field courses that will challenge and inspire you.

Key Program Features:

  • Take ROTC as an elective alongside your regular college classes
  • Develop leadership skills that set you apart in any career path
  • Potential to earn full college tuition through scholarships
  • Graduate as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army

Commitment Options

The best part? You can try ROTC without any long-term commitment. Here's how it works:

Basic Course (Freshmen & Sophomores):

  • No service commitment unless you're on scholarship
  • Perfect opportunity to explore if ROTC is right for you
  • Gain valuable leadership skills regardless of your future path

Advanced Course Commitments:

  • Three years active duty (four years for scholarship recipients)
  • Option to serve part-time in Army Reserve or National Guard while pursuing a civilian career

ROTC Lifestyle

Our program is designed to fit into your college schedule while preparing you for leadership:

Regular Activities:

  • Three weekly PT (physical training) sessions
  • One weekly Leadership Lab
  • Exciting training exercises each semester
  • Social events and military balls

Through these activities, you'll:

  • Build physical fitness and confidence
  • Develop practical leadership skills
  • Form strong friendships with fellow cadets
  • Learn to lead and inspire others

Ready to learn more about becoming a Symbol of Strength? Visit us in Dougherty Hall (Room 209) or email army@louisville.edu to discover how ROTC can enhance your college experience and future career.

Learn More About Our Programs

For High School Students & College Freshmen/Sophomores

Basic Camp is your gateway into Army ROTC if you're starting after your freshman year. During this four-week summer course at Fort Knox, Kentucky, you'll join students from across the nation in an intensive program designed to build confidence and develop leadership skills. It's the perfect way to catch up if you're interested in ROTC but didn't start as a freshman.

Key Benefits:

  • Four-week summer introduction to Army life
  • Perfect for students wanting to join ROTC later in college
  • Opportunity to qualify for scholarships
  • No military commitment required
  • Build confidence through hands-on training
  • Network with peers from across the country

Additional Training Opportunities

Army ROTC cadets have access to world-class training beyond the classroom in our Summer Training. The cornerstone of this training is Advanced Camp at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where you'll join over 8,000 cadets from across the nation to test your leadership skills and military knowledge. This challenging experience, combined with specialized training schools, helps transform you into a confident and capable Army officer.

Key Opportunities:

  • Advanced Camp (required between junior and senior year)
  • Air Assault School - learn helicopter operations and rappelling
  • Airborne School - earn your jump wings
  • Combat Water Survival Training
  • Cultural Understanding & Leadership Program (CULP) - international experience
  • Leadership Training Exercises each semester
  • Military formal events (Dining In/Out)

Special Entry Programs

For Active Duty Soldiers

The Green to Gold program offers active duty soldiers the opportunity to transition from enlisted to officer while continuing to receive regular pay and benefits. Both scholarship and non-scholarship options let you earn your degree and commission while maintaining your service status.

For National Guard & Reserve Members

The Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) allows you to serve in the Guard or Reserve while participating in ROTC. You'll earn dual benefits, receive E-5 pay grade as a cadet, and potentially earn over $1,300 monthly while preparing for your officer career.

For Transfer Students & Late Starts

The Non-Standard Entry program offers accelerated options for transfer students and those discovering ROTC later in their college career. This flexible, compressed timeline allows qualified students to catch up and complete ROTC requirements while staying on track for graduation.

Ready to Begin Your ROTC Journey?

Let us help you find the perfect program for your goals. Visit us at Dougherty Hall, Room 209, or reach out to our team: