ROTC Courses
ROTC courses are designed to complement your academic studies by developing leadership, teamwork, and decision‑making skills alongside your degree program. Through both Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC, students take ROTC courses as electives while pursuing any major—allowing flexibility, exploration, and personal growth without immediately committing to military service.
Students may enroll in ROTC courses during their first two years of college with no obligation, making ROTC an accessible way to explore leadership development while deciding if commissioning as an officer is the right fit.
What ROTC Courses Focus On
Across both branches (army and air force), ROTC coursework emphasizes:
- Leadership and ethical decision‑making
- Teamwork and communication under pressure
- Physical fitness and personal development
- Problem‑solving in real‑world scenarios
Courses combine classroom learning with hands‑on experiences, providing skills that are valuable in both military and civilian careers.
Air Force ROTC Courses
Air Force ROTC courses are taken through Drake’s crosstown agreement with Iowa State University, where students participate in weekly courses and leadership laboratories focused on leading in air and space environments.
Air Force ROTC coursework follows a two‑phase structure:
- General Military Course (GMC): Introductory courses typically taken during the first two years, with no obligation
- Professional Officer Course (POC): Advanced leadership training for students continuing toward commissioning
Like Army ROTC, Air Force ROTC courses are open to students of all majors and are designed to fit alongside a full academic course load.
Army ROTC Courses
Army ROTC courses offered through Iowa State University focus on leadership and military science, and physical readiness courses are hosted between Drake University and Grandview University. Introductory courses are open to all students and are designed to help you learn more about ROTC leadership training while building a strong foundation of skills. Army ROTC courses may also be applied toward a Military Studies minor, allowing students to integrate ROTC coursework into their academic goals.
Army ROTC Paths
These courses are primarily for freshmen and sophomore students and, except for persons with prior military service and basic training graduates, are required for entry into the advanced program. No more than 10 credits in and entry level courses may be applied toward graduation. No military obligation is required to participate in these classes.
MILS 011: INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY SCIENCE, 1 CR
Organization and mission of the Department of Defense and ROTC, with emphasis on Army, both nationally and at Drake. Activities available in Army ROTC. Designed to give students sufficient information to make an informed decision about continuing in Army ROTC. Lab not required. No prerequisites.
MILS 012: FOUNDATIONS OF AGILE AND ADAPTIVE LEADERSHIP, 1 CR
This course instructs students on the fundamental skills and proficiencies required of Cadets in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps and Officers in the United States Army. Special focus is given to the emphasis the Army puts on the development and character of the leader and how that affects the culture and operation of the Army as an institution. Students will develop an understanding of the role that morals and ethics play in becoming an Army Officer and leading American Soldiers. Introduction to basic officer /soldier skills will elucidate the complex role of the Officer in the modern Army.
MILS 015: ARMY PHYSICAL READINESS, 1 CR
The course will enhance the students' ability to grasp the unique requirements of military fitness training and allow students to apply leadership skills necessary for conducting proper fitness training. This course will also enable students to understand the demanding physical requirements for sustained military operations. Additionally, this course will enhance the students' ability to successfully compete in a physically demanding ROTC program.
MILS 021: LEADERSHIP TECHNIQUE, 2 CR
Introduction to professional military ethics and military leadership techniques. Small-group leadership situations and military management procedures are presented. Military communication formats and techniques also are examined. There is strong emphasis on counseling.
MILS 022: LAND NAVIGATION/MILITARY SURVIVAL SKILLS, 2 CR
Application of methods of conducting navigation on land by use of topographical maps, compasses and aerial photographs. Application of military skills to include rifle marksmanship, first aid, survival, escape and evasion. Lab is inclusive. No prerequisites.
These courses are for students who have completed the basic program (or received equivalent credit) and are mandatory to contract into ROTC. These courses are primarily taught to academic juniors and seniors. In addition to the advanced program of study, a student (cadet) will be expected to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test each semester and continually maintain military appearance standards in both personal grooming and uniform.
MILS 101: MILITARY SKILLS ORIENTATION I, 3 CR
Organization, composition and missions of operational elements. Principles of offensive and defensive combat operations with emphasis on the attack, withdrawal, retrograde, delay, patrolling, combat intelligence, tactical communications and the troop-leading procedure. Lab is inclusive. Prereq.: Basic course credit.
MILS 102: MILITARY SKILLS ORIENTATION II, 3 CR
Development of effective military writing techniques, basic educational psychology, oral presentation techniques, use of training aids, and lesson planning. Students prepare presentations incorporating all phases of effective instruction on fundamental individual combat survival, navigational and conditioning skills to prepare them for Advanced Camp and duties as junior officers. Lab is inclusive. Prereq.: MILS 101.
MILS 111: THE MILITARY TEAM, 3 CR
Organization and concepts of military law, how it functions and the officer's role in the system. A detailed study of the uniform code of military justice and the court martial system. Lab is inclusive. Prereq.: MILS 103.
MILS 112: PROFESSIONAL OFFICER, 3 CR
The study of the military profession, ethics and morality in our military organization; leadership principles, traits and application. Lab is inclusive. Prereq.: MILS 106.
MILS 199: INDEPENDENT STUDY, 3 CR
No Obligation, Just Opportunity
Whether you’re exploring leadership development, considering future military service, or looking to gain skills that set you apart after graduation, ROTC courses offer flexibility, support, and real‑world experience—without requiring an immediate commitment.