Military Science
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MAJ Braum Barton, Dept. Head (West End, Mem. Gym. 83844-2424; phone 208/885-6528; armyrotc@uidaho.edu). Faculty: MSG Thomas Thon, SFC Thomas VanOvermeer, SFC Joseph Petzinger, CPT Timothy Tate.
Military Science (Army ROTC) classes are open to all students, including those not interested in pursuing a commission as an Army officer. The primary objective of the program is to develop leadership and management skills in students. Supplementary objectives include enhancement of the student's abilities in speaking and writing, situational assessment, goal setting, and problem solving. The department cultivates within its students a strong sense of personal integrity, self discipline, and responsibility.
All levels of course work combine classroom instruction with practical exercises. The two-year basic course (100 and 200 level classes) consists of a one-credit course each freshman semester and a two-credit course each sophomore semester. These classes are taken simultaneously with one-credit lab courses. The curriculum covers confidence building exercises, map reading, leadership, management principles, first aid, and other life skills with broad applications beyond the military. Students participate in several adventure activities, including rappelling, rifle marksmanship, white water rafting, downhill skiing, and paintball exercises.
Basic course students, other than scholarship students, do not make a military commitment. These students survey Army opportunities and decide whether to continue in the program as advanced course students who will commission as Army officers.
The advanced course consists of three-credit lecture and one-credit lab courses normally taken each semester during the last two years of university study. The program also includes a five-week advanced camp at Fort Lewis, Washington (normally after the junior year). Students in the advanced course receive monthly stipends during the school year. Study centers on leadership styles and techniques with special emphasis placed on small unit leadership.
Army ROTC is the major source of commissioned officers for the U.S. Army. After successfully completing the program and baccalaureate degree requirements in almost any field, the student receives a commission as a second lieutenant. Active duty is not a requirement but is something for which students compete. Graduates also choose from among 26 different Army branches or specialties. Those not choosing active duty serve with the Army Reserves or Army National Guard on a part-time basis. Scholarships from two to four years are available to some students.
Prior to commissioning, all cadets must demonstrate proficiency in communications, military history, and computer literacy. This may be achieved through taking UI course offerings in those subject areas. See your Army ROTC class advisor for a list of approved courses.
Departmental members will answer questions about specific programs and courses. Contact the department by going to the west end of Memorial Gymnasium or by calling 208/885-6528 or 1-88-88-UIDAHO, or by e-mail at armyrotc@uidaho.edu. Further information is available on the web at www.armyrotc.uidaho.edu.
Courses
See the course description section for courses in Military Science (MS).