Cadets train alongside a small, close-knit, and remarkably diverse community of peers, drawing on Dartmouth's athletic facilities and dedicated classroom space for their coursework and physical training. Alongside their ROTC commitments, they pursue a wide range of academic disciplines—from biology and engineering to government, computer science, and Middle Eastern studies—and stay deeply involved on campus, from varsity athletics and the student organizations to undergraduate research, student bands, and community programs.

4-Year Traditional Program of Study

Traditionally, Army ROTC is a four-year program. The first two years of the program comprise the Basic Course (MS-I and MS-II). You can enroll in the program for the first two years without incurring any future military obligation (if you don't have an ROTC scholarship).

After you've successfully completed the Basic Course, you can compete to gain admission into the Advanced Course (MS-III and MS-IV). It's during this part of the program that you'll get to put your newfound management skills to the test.

As a cadet in the Advanced Course, you'll spend 5 weeks during the summer between your junior and senior years attending Advanced Camp. In camp, you'll be asked to handle the complex tasks of a unit leader. You may have to lead your group across difficult terrain or build a bridge across a river. You may have to solve difficult personnel problems, or be in charge of expensive military equipment. It's all meant to teach you how to think quickly when the pressure is on and how to motivate your team.

Then, as a cadet in the Advanced Course, your management skills will continue to be sharpened. You'll teach new ROTC students what you've learned. And when you graduate from college, you're ready to be a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. During your four years in the program, all ROTC textbooks, uniforms, and essential materials will be furnished at no cost. In addition, if selected for the Advanced Course, you'll receive an allowance of up to $2,000 each year.

2-Year Program of Study

If you miss the first two years of ROTC and you are a graduate of a junior or community college entering a two-year postgraduate course of study, you may still qualify for a commission through the two-year program. In this program, you must first attend the ROTC Leaders Training Camp (LTC) for a four week period. At LTC, you will learn the basic cadet skills taught during the first two years in Military Science Courses. Upon successful completion, you'll be eligible for the Advanced Course.

Veterans, Reservists, and Guardsmen may automatically qualify to enter the Advanced Course.