Department of Military Science and Leadership (Army ROTC)
Chair
LTC James Plutt
(859) 622-1207
Weaver 201
Military Science and Leadership Faculty and Staff
PMS Lieutenant Colonel James Plutt, Administrative Coordinator Claire Jennings, MAJ Colin Corrigan, MSG Clovis Yates, CPT Corey Blankenship, CPT Brandon Dutton, Scholarship and Enrollment Specialist Eric Sheaks.
Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC)
Earning a degree does not necessarily guarantee employment, however, taking Army ROTC will. The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) is a premier leadership-training program that prepares you to be a leader in any organization or business. ROTC enhances any Bachelor's or Master's Degree program by improving leadership skills, time management skills, goal setting, decision making, team building, mentorship, and achieving success. The skills you develop in ROTC will give you an advantage over your job-seeking peer. After successful completion of the Army ROTC program, you will have a full-time job waiting for you as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Army or part-time in the Army Reserve or National Guard.
Career Opportunities
Students who successfully graduate from EKU’s Army ROTC program commission as Second Lieutenants and serve with other dedicated young men and women in our nation’s defense. As new Lieutenants, officers serve in a variety of branches (career paths), such as Aviation, Armor, Infantry, Transportation, Military Police, Engineers, and Army Nurses, to name a few, and can travel worldwide. Starting salary for an active duty Lieutenant is over $55,000, plus full individual and family medical coverage and 30 days paid vacation annually. For those who desire only a part-time commitment, the Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty option gives students assurance they will be able to serve their country from home, adding stability to their chosen civilian career in the National Guard or Reserves.
Leadership Development
EKU’s Department of Military Science and Leadership has a proud reputation dating back to 1936. The program has commissioned over 3,000 officers. The program’s unique approach to leadership development provides each student various opportunities to refine their own leadership skills and receive individualized performance feedback. The Training is designed around a hands-on, experiential learning curriculum. ROTC students will develop the skills necessary to lead others, but also build confidence by learning how to rappel, negotiate EKU’s Challenge Course, learn fundamentals of marksmanship by firing the M-16 rifle and M-4 Carbine, complete water survival training, and other adventure-type activities. Students also learn to live the seven Army Values – Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage by demonstrating these values as they participate in the Cadet Battalion, Color Guard, Ranger Company, and Raider Team.
Scholarships and Simultaneous Membership
Eligible students may compete for a variety of Army ROTC Scholarships available on-campus and through the Army National Guard and Army Reserves. These fully funded scholarships pay your choice of 100% tuition or $12,000 Room & Board with a $1,200 annual book allowance and a monthly tax-free living allowance of $420. Four-year ROTC scholarship recipients and qualified freshmen receive additional campus housing payments up to $3,058. Members of the National Guard or Army Reserves who join ROTC under the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP) may also receive a monthly SMP Kicker of $350 in addition to the tax-free $420 ROTC living allowance, Montgomery GI Bill® benefits, and E-5 drill pay. National Guard members get 100% in-state tuition.
Eligibility and Obligations
Students may enroll in any of the MSL 100-200 level courses without any obligation. Students who desire to seek a commission must sign a contract before entering the Advanced Leadership Course (MSL 300-400 courses); they must also meet certain age, physical fitness, medical, citizenship, security clearance, and military experience requirements. Military experience can be satisfied in a variety of methods (check with the ROTC Scholarship and Enrollment Officer at (859) 622-1215 for details). Students contracting into the Advanced Leadership Course will incur a military service obligation upon graduation.
Scholar-Athlete-Leader
Becoming an Army Officer doesn’t just happen; it requires a level of commitment, determination, and selflessness that few civilian careers will ever demand. Army Officers are intellectually curious, mentally adroit, physically robust, and possess a willingness and passion to take charge and make the right things happen. If you are a Scholar-Athlete-Leader who wants to join the world’s most sophisticated Army, then join EKU ROTC—“Where Leadership Excellence Begins.”
Information is current as of June 2025 and is subject to change.
Courses
Aerospace Studies
AFS 111. Aerospace Studies I. (1 Credit)
The course allows students to examine general aspects of the Department of the Air Force, Air Force benefits, and opportunities for Air Force officers. The course also lays the foundation for becoming an Airman such as AF customs and courtesies, AF dress and appearance, team building, communication skills, and more. As a whole, this course, combined with AFS 112, provides students with a knowledge-level understanding for the employment of air and space power, from an institutional, doctrinal, and historical perspective. The students will be introduced to the Air Force way of life and gain knowledge on what it means to be an Airman. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 112. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
This fall semester course (to be taken in conjunction with AFS 111) is a weekly laboratory that teaches Air Force customs and courtesies, health and physical fitness, and drill and ceremonies. Consists of one, two-hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 111. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 113. Aerospace Studies I. (1 Credit)
The course allows students to examine general aspects of the Department of the Air Force, Air Force Leadership and the Air Force Core Values. As a foundational course, AS100 also provides a historical perspective such as lessons on war and US military, Air Force operations, principles of war, and airpower. As a whole, this course, combined with AFS 111, provides students with a knowledge-level understanding for the employment of air and space power, from an institutional, doctrinal, and historical perspective. The students will be introduced to the Air Force way of life and gain knowledge on what it means to be an Airman. (This course is offered through UK).
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AFS 114. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
This course (to be taken in conjunction with AFS 113) is a weekly laboratory that teaches Air Force customs and courtesies, health and physical fitness, and drill and ceremonies. Consists of one, two-hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 113. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 211. Aerospace Studies II. (1 Credit)
This course is the first part of a two part course that focuses on laying the foundation for teams and leadership. The topics include skills that will allow cadets to improve their leadership on a personal level and within a team. The courses will prepare cadets for their field training experience where they will be able to put the concepts learned into practice. The purpose is to instill a leadership mindset and to motivate sophomore students to transition from AFROTC cadet to AFROTC officer candidate. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 212. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
This course is a weekly laboratory that prepares cadets with additional emphasis on leadership/followership roles and preparation for summer field training. Consists of one, two-hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 211. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 213. Aerospace Studies II. (1 Credit)
This course is the second part of a two-part course that focuses on laying the foundation for teams and leadership. The topics include communication, feedback, situational leadership and leadership theory. The courses will prepare cadets for their field training experience where they will be able to put the concepts learned into practice. The purpose is to instill a leadership mindset and to motivate sophomore students to transition from AFROTC cadet to AFROTC officer candidate. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 214. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
This course is a weekly spring semester laboratory designed to develop supervisory management skills to include communication, techniques of critique, social actions, personnel evaluation procedures, problem solving, role playing and field training preparation. Consists of one, two-hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 213. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 311. Aerospace Studies III. (3 Credits)
Prerequisites, AFS 111, 113, 211, 213. Part one of a two-part course that teaches cadets advanced skills and knowledge in management and leadership. Special emphasis is placed on enhancing leadership skills and communication. Cadets have an opportunity to try out these leadership and management techniques in a supervised environment as juniors and seniors. Class participation, comprehension, and oral communication skills are stressed. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 312. Aerospace Seminar. (1 Credit)
A fall semester course focused on developing advanced leadership skills through hands-on application and leadership roles. Students fill the mid-level management function within the Detachment’s cadet wing through flight leadership and other project management roles. The course involves the planning and execution of military events and activities within leadership lab itself. Consists of one, two-hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 311. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 313. Aerospace Studies III. (3 Credits)
Prerequisites, AFS 111, 113, 211, 213. A continuation of AFS 311. Second part of a course that teaches cadets advanced skills and knowledge in management and leadership. Special emphasis is placed on enhancing leadership skills and communication. Cadets have an opportunity to try out these leadership and management techniques in a supervised environment as juniors and seniors. Class participation, comprehension, and oral communication skills are stressed. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 314. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
A spring semester course designed and focused on developing advanced leadership skills through hands-on application and leadership roles. Students fill the mid-level management function within the Detachment’s cadet wing through flight leadership and other project management roles. The course involves the planning and execution of military events and activities within leadership lab itself. Consists of one, two-hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 311. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 411. Aerospace Studies IV. (3 Credits)
Prerequisites, AFS 111, 113, 211, 213, 311, 313. Part one of a two-part class that is designed for college seniors and gives them the foundation to understand their role as military officers in American society. It is an overview of the complex social and political issues facing the military profession and requires a measure of sophistication commensurate with the senior college level. Class participation, comprehension, written and oral communication skills are stressed. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 412. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
A fall semester course designed and focused on developing advanced leadership skills. Students fill the top-level management function within the cadet wing. The course involves the planning and controlling of military activities of leadership lab. The lab also includes practice of leadership techniques aimed at motivating and instructing cadets in the lower three levels. Consists of one, two hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Corequisite: AFS 411. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 413. Aerospace Studies IV. (3 Credits)
Second part of a class hat is designed for college seniors and gives them the foundation to understand their role as military officers in American society. It is an overview of the complex social and political issues facing the military profession and requires a measure of sophistication commensurate with the senior college level. This final semester provides information that will prepare the cadets for Active Duty. Class participation, comprehension, written and oral communication skills are stressed. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 414. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
A spring semester course designed and focused on developing advanced leadership skills. Students fill the top-level management function within the cadet wing. The course involves the planning and controlling of military activities of leadership lab. The lab also includes practice of leadership techniques aimed at motivating and instructing cadets in the lower three levels. Consists of one, two hour lab per week and two, one-hour physical training (PT) sessions per week. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. (This course is offered with the University of Kentucky).
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AFS 495. Independent Work. (2-6 Credits)
A. Prerequisite: approval of professor of aerospace studies. Student must have the independent study proposal form approved by faculty supervisor and department chair prior to enrollment. A study of an advanced problem on an aerospace subject under the guidance of the Chairman of the Department of Aerospace Studies.
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Military Science and Leadership
MSL 101. Introduction to the Army and Critical Thinking. (2 Credits)
I. Cadets will learn how the personal development of life skills such as cultural understanding, goal setting, time management, stress management, and comprehensive fitness related to leadership, officership, and the Army profession. The focus is on developing basic knowledge and comprehension of Army leadership dimensions, attributes and core leader competencies while gaining an understanding of the ROTC program, its purpose in the Army, and its advantages for the student. Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). 1 Lec/1 Lab.
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MSL 102. Introduction to the Profession of Arms. (2 Credits)
(2) II. Cadets will learn how Army ethics and values shape the Army and the specific ways that these ethics are inculcated into Army culture. Cadets can expect to explore the seven Army Values, Warrior Ethos, explore the Profession of Arms, Army Leadership and critical communication skills. Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). 1 Lec/1 Lab
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MSL 201. Leadership and Decision Making. (2 Credits)
(2) I. Primarily is drawn from the Adaptability Army Learning Areas (ALA). The
outcomes are demonstrated through Critical and Creative Thinking and the ability to apply Troop Leading Procedures (TLP). Comprehension of the officer’s role in leading change by applying innovative solutions to problems in concert with the Principals of Mission Command. The Army Profession is also stressed through leadership forums and a leadership self-assessment. Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). 2 Lec/1 Lab.
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MSL 202. Army Doctrine and Team Decision. (3 Credits)
(3) II. Begins the journey to understand and demonstrate cross-cultural competencies as they relate to Army doctrine and how they apply in a combatant commander’s engagement strategies. Army values, teamwork, and Warrior Ethos and their relationship to the Law of Land Warfare and philosophy of military science are also stressed. The ability to lead and follow is also covered through team building exercises in small units up to squad level. Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in hands-on performance-oriented environment during Leadership LABS. 2.5 Lec/2.5 Lab.
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MSL 210. Basic Camp. (5 Credits)
(5) Summer Only. A comprehensive leader training course which can be taken in lieu of 201 and 202. This course emphasizes an experiential, hands-on approach to leader development. Held at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Students are paid to attend.
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MSL 298. Independent Leadership Studies. (2,3 Credits)
A. Prerequisite: departmental approval; may be taken once in lieu of MSL 201 or 202. Students record observed traits in a dimensional leadership journal and discuss observations with instructor. Independent examination of effective leadership, communications, goal setting, decision-making, problem solving, and quality improvement techniques. 2.5 Ind Stu/2.5 Lab.
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MSL 301. Training Management and the Warfighting Functions. (3 Credits)
(3) I. Prerequisites: 54 hours, MSL 201 and MSL 202 or MSL 210; or Departmental approval. Challenges cadets to study, practice and apply the fundamentals of Army Leadership, Officership, Army values and ethics, personal development, and small unit tactics at the platoon level. Cadets receive systematic and specific feedback on their leadership attributes values, and core leader competencies from instructor, other ROTC cadre, and MSL IV cadets using the Cadet Officer Evaluation System (OES). Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). 2.5 Lec/2.5 Lab.
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MSL 302. Applied Leadership in Small Unit Operations. (3 Credits)
(3) II. Prerequisite: MSL 301 or departmental approval. Builds on the lessons learned and leadership attributes gained and developed during MSL 301. This is an academically challenging course where cadets will study, practice, and apply the fundamentals of the Army leadership, officership, Army values and ethics, personal development and small unit tactics at the platoon level. At the conclusion of this course, cadets will be capable of planning coordinating, navigating, motivating and leading a squad and platoon in the execution of a mission during a classroom PE, a
Leadership Lab, or during a Leader Training Exercise (LTX). Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). Lab 2.5 Lec/2.5 Lab.
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MSL 303. American Military History. (3 Credits)
I. Prerequisite: ENG 102 or ENG 105(B) or HON 102. Examines U.S. Military History from pre-revolutionary times to Global War on Terrorism, Applies the Threads of Continuity model, defines the (9) principles of war; (5) forms of maneuver, analyzes the political-economic-technological-social impacts on the military. Develops leadership through individual/group contribution participation in case studies, classroom presentations, book report, battle analysis, and battlefield staff ride/museum tour.
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MSL 310. Advance Camp. (6 Credits)
(6) Summer Only. Prerequisite: MSL 302. Refines student leadership and teamwork building skills through intensive practical application, rotating leader/command experience involving problem analysis, decision-making, and troop leading in both garrison and field environments. Held at Fort Lewis, Washington.
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MSL 311. Internship in Leadership. (3 Credits)
Summer Only. Pre and Corequisites: MSL 301, MSL 302 and enrolled in MSL 310. Students assigned to leadership positions with active army units for 3-4 weeks. Students are paid and receive a written evaluation of their leadership performance and potential and must complete an after action report upon returning. May only be taken once.
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MSL 401. The Army Officer. (3 Credits)
(3) I. Prerequisite: MSL 302 or departmental approval. Develops cadet
proficiency in planning, executing and assessing complex operations, functioning as a member of a staff, and providing performance feedback to subordinates. Cadets assess risk make ethical decisions, and lead fellow Army ROTC cadets. They identify responsibilities of key staff, coordinate staff roles and use situational opportunities to teach, train and develop subordinates. Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). .5 Lec/2.5 Lab.
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MSL 402. Company Grade Leadership. (3 Credits)
(3) II. Prerequisite: MSL 401 or departmental approval. Explores the dynamics of leading in the complex situations of current military operations in today’s operational environment. Cadets examine difference in customs and courtesies, military law, principles of war and rules of engagement in the face of international
terrorism. They also explore aspects of interacting with nongovernmental organizations, civilians on the battlefield and host nation support. The course places significant emphasis on preparing cadets for their first unit of assignment. Students are required to apply their knowledge outside the classroom in a hands-on performance-oriented environment during leadership labs (team building
exercises, field training exercises, and/or simulation exercises). 2.5 Lec/2.5 Lab.
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MSL 403. Topics in Military Leadership. (1 Credit)
A. Prerequisite: MSL 402. Study of current issues relevant to the professional development and commissioning of Second Lieutenants in the United States Army. May repeat with different topics for a maximum of 4 hours. 1 Lec/1 Lab.
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