Military Studies
Interdepartmental Minor
The Military Studies program is designed for students interested in learning about military skills and careers. The mission of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs is threefold. First, students are developed mentally, morally, and physically in order to make them strong leaders. Second, a desire for development in mind and character is instilled in students so they may assume the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship, and government. Finally, students are imbued with the highest ideals of duty, honor, and loyalty in order to graduate with a basic professional background and motivation toward their careers.
The Military Science, Naval Science and Air Force Aerospace departments accomplish this mission through detailed courses of instruction occurring throughout a typical student’s college career. All academic courses offered by these departments focus on the development of professional military skills and their application. Each department offers courses unique to its branch of the military. Students in Army ROTC classes gain an appreciation for ground warfare and doctrine, while the Naval Science program develops basic seamanship skills such as navigation and marine propulsion. The Air Force Aerospace Studies curriculum familiarizes students with Air Force structure and doctrine. On a broader scale, all three departments offer courses promoting leadership and sound management practices that investigate the military’s role in American domestic and foreign policy, and can be employed in any career path.
Military Science, Naval Science and Air Force Aerospace courses are offered in the interdepartmental Military Studies program in the following participating departments: Military Science, Naval Science and Air Force Aerospace.
Undergraduate Study
Undergraduate study in this program provides the student with an opportunity to develop a minor in Military Studies. The three Iowa State University ROTC programs offer over 64 credits of specialized coursework. The minor in Military Studies is open to any Iowa State University student.
Undergraduate students may minor in Military Studies by taking 15 credits of coursework from a combination of any of the three ROTC programs - regardless of whether or not a commission in the Armed Forces is tendered. At least 6 of the 15 credits must be in courses numbered 300 or above.
Courses primarily for undergraduate students
Air Force Aerospace Studies - See Air Force Aerospace Studies.
AFAS 141. Foundations of the United States Air Force.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Basic introduction to the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. Mission and organization of the Air Force, officership and professionalism, military customs and courtesies, Air Force officer opportunities, and communication skills.
AFAS 142. Foundations of the United States Air Force.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
A continuation of 141. Topics include Air Force installations, Air Force core values, leadership and team building, further study of interpersonal communication, the Oath of Office and Commissioning.
AFAS 241. The Evolution of USAF Air Space Power I.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Examines the general aspects of air and space power through a historical perspective. Utilizing this perspective, the course covers a time period from the first balloons and dirigibles to the Korean War. Historical examples are provided to illustrate the development of airpower capabilities and missions to demonstrate the evolution of what has become today's USAF air and space power.
AFAS 242. The Evolution of USAF Air Space Power II.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
A continuation of AFAS 241 that examines the general aspects of air and space power through a historical perspective. Utilizing this perspective, the course covers a time period from the Korean War to the space-age global positioning systems of the Persian Gulf War. Historical examples are provided to illustrate the development of airpower capabilities and missions to demonstrate the evolution of what has become today's USAF air and space power.
AFAS 341. Air Force Leadership Studies I.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
A look at the fundamental issues of leadership and management in the U.S Air Force; a large and diverse organization. It examines the theoretical aspects of leadership, management, communications, motivation and problem-solving while studying them against the backdrop of the U.S. Air Force. The course also conducts hands-on exercises to apply principles learned. While the curriculum is focused on the Air Force as an organization, the principles studied are applicable to most organizations.
AFAS 342. Air Force Leadership Studies II.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 341
A continuation of AFAS 341, that looks at the advanced issues of leadership and management in the U.S. Air Force; a large and diverse organization. It examines the theoretical aspects of leadership, managment, communications, motivation and problem-solving while studying them against the backdrop of the U.S. Air Force. The course also conducts hands-on exercises to apply principles learned. While the curriculum is focused on the Air Force as an organization, the principles studied are applicable to most oranizations.
AFAS 441. Preparation for Active Duty.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Traces the source of military authority and responsibilities from the U.S. Constitution through the DoD to an Air Force officer. Examines the structure and capabilities of the other services and joint structures. Addresses the supervisory duties of an Air Force officer associated with administrative actions and military law as force management tools. Builds upon leadership and management skill learned in AFAS 341/342 and includes demonstrations of written and verbal communications processes.
AFAS 442. National Security Affairs.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Examines the national security process through review of the Department of Defense's statutory administrative and operational relationships as context for this course?s regional studies component. Reviews functions of air and space power as outlined in Air Force doctrine and introduces the concept of joint operations. Integrates these concepts with regional studies to survey issues of interest to professional military officers and governmental leaders. Selectively reviews and discusses Africa, Latin America, South Asia, East Asia, Europe, Russia and the Middle East.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
Military Science - See Military Science.
M S 101. Introduction to Military Science.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 101L required
Examines the role of a Cadet in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps and a Lieutenant in the United States Army. The course explores a military culture whose ultimate success is determined by the character and proficiency of its' leaders. Instruction introduces students to the cultural heritage and history of the U.S. Army. Students will begin to understand the structure of the U.S. Army and how it functions as an organization and institution. The curriculum promotes the development of students' communication skills to enhance their ability to transmit ideas. The class examines how the Army's cultural values drive the development of leadership in the Officer Corps. Hands-on activities enable students to gain insight on the skills and abilities required of cadets and officers interacting with civilians and soldiers.
M S 102. Structure and Function of the U.S. Army.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 102L required
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. Allows students to explore the Army culture whose ultimate success is determined by the character and proficiency of its' leaders. Students will gain an insight to the effects of human behavior and communication on the function of the Army's basic unit structures. 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.
M S 201. Principles of Leadership and Communication Skills.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
F.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 201L required
Explores the development of leadership and communication skills by understanding and studying the principles, traits, and dynamics of leadership and effective communication techniques. These include; leadership dimensions, human behavior, time management skills, stress management, values and ethics, decision making process, problem solving skills, team building exercises, communication techniques, briefing skills, delegating, nutrition, fitness, and counseling. Leadership assessment programs, role playing, active class participation, speeches, country briefs, and video clips are used to enhance and reinforce the instruction.
M S 202. Map Reading and Land Navigation.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 202L required
Class focuses on the characteristics and features of the earth's land mass and how to apply different methods of conducting navigation on land. These methods include; by use of topographical maps, compasses, aerial photographs, military maps, symbols, and all their practical application. These navigation techniques are used in class in conjunction with patrolling techniques and squad movement exercises. Students will utilize verbal and non-verbal communication, communication techniques, and briefing techniques during this class. Students are also assigned to read one professional book from the Army Reading List and complete a written review of the book in the Army writing style.
M S 301. Methods of Instructing Military Skills.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Completion of the basic Military Science program, concurrent enrollment in MS 301L, and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
Develops student's proficiency in analyzing, planning, and executing complex operations within a military organizational structure. Students are given situational opportunities and then measured on their leadership abilities through systematic feedback. Student's evaluations are based on sixteen leadership dimensions within the realms of values, attributes, skills, and actions. Students develop an understanding of human cultural heritage and history, as it pertains to the armed forces.
M S 302. Applied Leadership.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Completion of the basic Military Science program, concurrent enrollment in MS 302L and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
Prepares students to attend the Leadership Develop and Assessment Course at Fort Lewis, Washington in which they will be assigned specific and situational tasks to accomplish by providing purpose, motivation, and direction to fellow students across the nation. Students will learn how to identify sixteen leadership dimensions in the under classmen and provide specific feedback on their leadership behaviors. Students will develop their oral communication skills about the plans developed by the class, through small group presentation settings. Students will develop methods of studying human behavior.
M S 401. Seminar: The Military Team.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in MS 401L and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
Develops student proficiency in analyzing and evaluating leadership behaviors, such as values, attributes, skills, and actions. Students are given situational opportunities to assess leadership and provide feedback to other students placed in leadership roles. Students will be measured by their ability to both give and receive systematic and specific feedback on leadership behaviors. Students will develop their ability to communicate thoughts and ideas orally through small group presentations and group discussions. Students will supervise and evaluate the planning and execution of complex operations within a military organizational structure.
M S 402. Seminar: The Professional Military Officer.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in M S 402L and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
Explores the dynamics of leading in the complex situations of current military operations in a contemporary world. Students will examine the differences in customs, courtesies and operational principles in the face of international terrorism. Students will also explore aspects of interaction with nongovernmental organizations, civilians and media in a war zone and foreign national governments. The course uses case studies, scenarios, and practical exercises, which prepare the student to face complex ethical and practical demands of leading soldiers within a multifaceted military organizational structure.
M S 290. Independent Study: Basic Military Study.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable, maximum of 12 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of the Chair of Military Science Department
Investigation of an approved topic. Must result in a professional journal-worthy paper on ethics, current military issues, interpersonal communications, or leadership development.
M S 490. Independent Study: Advanced Military Study.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Repeatable, maximum of 4 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: M S 301, 302, 401 and 402 and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
Investigation of an approved topic. Must result in a professional journal-worthy paper on ethics, current military issues, interpersonal communications, or leadership development.
Naval Science - See Naval Science.
N S 111. Introduction to Naval Science.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Introduction to the organization, regulations, and capabilities of the US Navy, with emphasis on mission and principal warfare components.
N S 212. Seapower and Maritime Affairs.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
An historical survey of sea power in terms of national domestic environments, foreign policy, and the evolution of maritime forces with trends in technology, doctrine, and tactics. The student will develop an understanding of the role the US Navy has played in the nation's history, both in peace and war. Naval events, forces and policies will be studied as elements in the shaping of the national consciousness and sense of purpose. Course content will include the development of the concept of sea power, the role of various warfare components of the Navy, the implementation of sea power as an instrument of national policy, and the evolution of naval tactics.
N S 220. Leadership and Management.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Experiential approach to learning the principles of leadership and management by examining various management theories and their applications. Skills are developed in the areas of communication, counseling, control, direction, management, and leadership through active guided participation.
N S 230. Navigation.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Sophomore classification
Study of the fundamentals of marine navigation used by ships at sea; includes practical exercises in piloting using visual and electronic means. In-depth discussion of laws that govern conduct of vessels in national and international waters. Course is supplemented with review and analysis of case studies involving actual navigation incidents.
N S 320. Naval Ship Systems I (Engineering).
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Physics 221, sophomore classification
An introduction to naval engineering with emphasis on the equipment and machinery involved in the conversion of energy for propulsion and other purposes aboard the major ship types of the U.S. fleet. Basic concepts of the theory and design of steam, gas turbine, diesel, and nuclear propulsion. Introduction to ship design, stability, hydrodynamic forces, compartmentation, electrical and auxiliary systems.
N S 321. Evolution of Warfare.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: Sophomore classification
Evolution of warfare from 3500 B.C. to contemporary times; analysis of the impact of historical precedents on modern military thought and action; emphasis on the historical development of military tactics, strategy, and technology.
N S 330. Naval Ship Systems II (Weapons).
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Physics 221, sophomore classification
Introduction to the theory and principles of operation of naval weapon systems. Included coverage of types of weapons and fire control systems, capabilities and limitations; theory of target acquisition, identification and tracking; basics of naval ordnance.
N S 410. Naval Operations and Seamanship.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Senior classification
Study of tactical naval operations; employs practical use of maneuvering boards together with shiphandling principles to arrive at tactical shipboard maneuvering solutions. Study also of naval command and control, communications, and the Naval Warfare Doctrine.
N S 412. Leadership and Ethics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Requirements for NROTC students - N S 111, N S 212 or HIST 389, N S 220, N S 230, N S 320, N S 330 and N S 410
Basic background concerning the duties and responsibilities of the junior naval officer and division officer in the areas of integrity and ethics, human resources management, personnel management, material management, and the administration of discipline. Preparation for responsibilities encountered immediately upon commissioning.
N S 421. Evolution of Amphibious Warfare.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: Sophomore classification
Defines the concept of amphibious operations, origins, development from 600 B.C.