Department of Military Science and Leadership (Army ROTC)

Chair
LTC Vincent Thomas
(859) 622-1207
Weaver 201
Military Science and Leadership Faculty and Staff
PMS Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Thomas, Administrative Coordinator‐ Claire Jennings, MAJ Colin Corrigan, MAJ Jonathan Hoekzema, CPT Charles Huber, SFC Cody Taylor, Scholarship and Enrollment Specialist‐ Eric Sheaks, HR Specialist‐Rob Roane and Supply Tech‐Dennis Murphy
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 Bachelors or Masters Degree program by improving leadership skills, time management skills, goals 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, 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 2,200 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, fire 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, the Pershing Rifles Drill Team/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 $10,000 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 freshman may receive free room and board. 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 monthly 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.”
Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC)
Lt. Col Richard K, Harrop
Commander, AFROTC Detachment 290 and Professor of Aerospace Studies
University of Kentucky (Host School)
859-257-7115
Air Force Faculty
Major Troy Kenning & Captain Anthony Noto
Air Force ROTC Scholarships
The types of financial assistance available through Air Force ROTC are briefly described below. For further details on eligibility and requirements, contact the
Department of Aerospace Studies
203 Barker Hall
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY, 40506-0028
(859) 257-7115
or visit https://afrotc.as.uky.edu/ for more information. Additional information is also listed in this Bulletin under Aerospace Studies.
High School Scholarship Program (HSSP)
Scholarships are available to those qualified and selected students who enroll in the Air Force ROTC program. These scholarships cover tuition and laboratory fees, provide an allowance for books, and provide a graduated nontaxable subsistence allowance ranging from $300 to $500 per month. Qualified high school students can apply for four-year Air Force ROTC scholarships. Applicants for four-year scholarships are evaluated on the basis of the following criteria: a composite score on the ACT, or a composite score on the SAT; the applicant’s high school academic record; class ranking; extracurricular and athletic activities; personal interview; and ability to qualify on an Air Force medical examination. High school students who meet the basic eligibility requirements for a four-year scholarship must submit an application anytime May 1st through December 1 of the year prior to enrollment in the program (usually the spring of their Junior year into the Fall of their Senior year).
All selections for four-year scholarships are made at Air Force ROTC headquarters. Students meet regularly scheduled boards from September to February (which is dependent upon when they officially apply). High school students should apply online at: www.afrotc.com. For additional information, contact the
Air Force ROTC Detachment
203 Barker Hall
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY 40506-0028
or by phone at (859) 257-7115.
In College Scholarship Program (ICSP)
Scholarships are awarded to students enrolled as cadets currently in the Air Force ROTC program on a competitive basis. Depending on the particular scholarship program, selection may be made on campus by the Air Force ROTC detachment commander or at Air Force ROTC headquarters. Scholarships may be awarded for up to three and a half years of study. Students interested in these scholarships should call (859) 257-7115 for the latest information. (Freshman Students are not eligible for an ICSP until they have completed one full-time semester of college education. Typically Freshman ICSP scholarships will be given starting Spring Semester of their freshman year, and students in the program could be award a scholarship from Spring Semester freshman status through Spring Semester sophomore status.)
Furthermore, the HQ AFROTC ICSP is an in college scholarship program available to students pursuing a degree in a critical areas needed by the Air Force. These scholarships can be up to three and a half years. These scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis for those who qualify. ICSP scholarships have historically been awarded to cadets pursuing academic majors in electrical and computer engineering, nursing, and certain foreign language studies. Selections for these particular in college scholarship program are made at Air Force ROTC headquarters. Critical areas are updated every year and are subject to change without notice. For current information, call (859) 257-7115.
Information is current as of January 2015 and is subject to change.
Courses
Aerospace Studies
AFS 111. Aerospace Studies I. (1 Credit)
I. This course deals with the Air Force in the contemporary world through a study of the total force structure, strategic offensive and defensive forces, general purpose forces, and aerospace support forces.
AFS 112. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
I. Introduces Air Force customs and courtesies, drill and ceremonies, and wear of the uniform. The course also includes a discussion of career opportunities in the Air Force.
AFS 113. Aerospace Studies I. (1 Credit)
A continuation of AFS 111.
AFS 114. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
I. A course designed to develop managerial skills including superior/subordinate relationships, communications, customs and courtesies, basic drill movements and career progression requirements. Credit will not be granted toward the hours requirements for the degree. Pass/fail only.
AFS 211. Aerospace Studies II. (1 Credit)
I. This course is a study of air power from balloons and dirigibles through the jet age. It is an historical review of air power employment in military and nonmilitary operations in support of national objectives; and a look at the evolution of air power concepts and doctrine.
AFS 212. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
I. Air Force customs, courtesies and opportunities are emphasized. The cadet is prepared for individual, flight and squadron movements in drill and ceremonies.
AFS 213. Aerospace Studies II. (1 Credit)
A continuation of AFS 211.
AFS 214. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
II. Emphasis on preparing cadets for attendance at field training during succeeding summer.
AFS 311. Aerospace Studies III. (3 Credits)
I. Prerequisite: acceptance into the professional officer course. A study of management functions with emphasis on the environment. Individual motivational and behavioral process, communication, and group dynamics are included for the development of professional skills.
AFS 312. Aerospace Seminar. (1 Credit)
I. Involves the cadets in advanced leadership experiences to prepare for active duty. Cadet responsibilities include planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and controlling the activities of the cadet corps and preparing briefings and written communications.
AFS 313. Aerospace Studies III. (3 Credits)
II. Prerequisite: AFS 311. A study of leadership with specific emphasis on the Air Force leader. Includes theoretical, professional, and communicative aspects. In addition, military justice and administrative law are discussed within the context of the military organization.
AFS 314. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
I. Cadets continue preparations for fulfilling leadership positions as an active duty Air Force officer.
AFS 411. Aerospace Studies IV. (3 Credits)
I. Prerequisites: AFS 311 and 313. A study of the military profession, civil-military interactions, communication skills, framework of defense policy, and formulation of defense strategy.
AFS 412. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
I. Involves the cadets in higher level advanced leadership experiences. In addition, the cadets receive a final block of instruction for Initial Commissioned Service.
AFS 413. Aerospace Studies IV. (3 Credits)
II. Prerequisite: AFS 411. Continues the study of strategy and the management of conflict, formulation and implementation of U.S. defense policy, defense organization, and case studies in defense policy making.
AFS 414. Leadership Seminar. (1 Credit)
II. Cadets prepare for Initial Commissioned Service by fulfilling advanced leadership positions. Continued emphasis on group dynamics and the role of future leaders in the Air Force.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. Gen Ed Element 5A-History.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.