Military Science
The Military Science Department does not offer an academic degree and is embedded within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as an interdisciplinary program. The mission of the department is derived directly from regulations governing Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (AROTC), which are issued by the Army Cadet Command and Army Training and Doctrine Command and cannot be modifiable by this department.
Freshmen Year Learning Outcomes
The student will have a working knowledge of the following areas: The Role of the Army, Roles and Origins of the Army, Army Customs and Traditions, Branches (Jobs) in the Army and Military Operations and Tactics.
Sophomore Year Learning Outcomes
The student will have a working knowledge of the following areas: The Role of an Officer, Role of the Officer and Noncommissioned Officer, communications, code of conduct, first aid, principles of war and military operations and tactics.
Junior Year Learning Outcomes
The student will have a working knowledge of the following areas: Small Unit Training, Command and Staff Functions, Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Warfare, Law of War, Weapons, Human Behavior, Math Reasoning, Computer Science and Military Operations and Tactics.
Senior Year Learning Outcomes
The student will have a working knowledge of the following areas: Transition to Becoming an Officer, Military Justice, Intelligence and Electronic Warfare, Army Personnel Management, Army Logistics, Post and Installation Support and Military Operations and Tactics.
The mission of the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (AROTC) is to commission the future leaders of the United States Army. Since ROTC produces over 65 percent of the Army’s Officer Corps, our task is one of the most important undertakings in the Army and our country today. We seek top quality college students. We train these potential leaders, assess their abilities, and challenge them with the highest standards of profession/professionalism. Those who successfully complete the program, receive a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. A commission as an Army officer affords the opportunity to pursue a profession in one or several of the 300 different jobs held by Army officers. Students may request to serve as an officer in either the active army, or part time in the Army Reserve or National Guard. Regardless of the method of service, officers in today’s Army can be proud to know that they are doing their share in the defense of the United States of America.
The ISU Military Science program is divided into two segments, the basic program and the advanced program. The basic program (courses numbered 101-290) is designed primarily for freshmen and sophomores. No military obligation is incurred by a person participating in the basic program. The basic program is designed to be informative and to acquaint students with the military as a profession. The basic program or an allowed substitute is a prerequisite for the advanced program. Financial assistance is available on a competitive basis.
Persons interested in Military Science should visit the department located on the second floor of the Armory (east side).
Basic Program
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. Each scholarship cadet in the Basic Program receives a monthly allowance (freshmen $300; sophomore $350) for up to 10 months. The curriculum is designed to train freshmen and sophomores in individual and team skills. It also helps the Professor of Military Science identify individual leader developmental needs.
Advanced Program
These courses are for students who have completed the basic program (or received equivalent credit) and are mandatory for potential commissioning upon contracting at the beginning of their junior year. Each cadet receives a monthly allowance (junior $450; senior $500) for up to 10 months. These courses are primarily taught to academic juniors and seniors.
Successful completion normally obligates the student to military service on active or reserve duty. In addition to the advanced program of study, a student (cadet) will be expected to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (precondition for commissioning) each semester and continually maintain military appearance standards in both personal grooming and uniform. Physical fitness training is regularly conducted outside of class and laboratory hours in a separate course, M S 150 Army Physical Readiness. Students are encouraged to attend and participate in this class.
Professional Military Science Education (PME) coursework outside of the military science curriculum is also a precondition to commissioning. The PME component consists of Basic Academic proficiency standards. These standards are explained to prospective students as they consider enrollment in the advanced program. Army Uniforms will be worn at least once a week. The 300-level courses are designed to prepare cadets for the Leader Development and Assessment Course, which is a 32 day summer internship/training program where cadets are trained to Army standards, develop leadership skills, and have their officer potential evaluated. The 400-level courses are the final preparation for commissioning as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. Students must meet academic alignment criteria and receive basic program credit before entering the advanced program.
The College of Liberal Arts and Science offers a minor in Military Studies. Requirements for the minor include taking a minimum of 15 credits of ROTC instruction, which may be taken from one or a number of the ROTC programs. At least 6 credits must be in courses numbered 300 or above.
Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
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 101L. Basic Leadership Laboratory I.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 101 required
Uses basic military training, missions and scenarios to provide a hands-on method of developing confidence and leadership skills. Students observe and participate in the rotation through various levels of leadership positions at the platoon and squad level within the Army command structure. This concept provides a constant learning environment as they learn to communicate effectively and work as a team while assigned to positions at various levels within the organization. Marching, rifle firing, and tactical patrolling; students gain confidence through rappelling and construction/use of rope bridges; and increase professional knowledge in areas such as first aid, water survival, personal physical fitness, and land navigation. Teaching locations include the ISU Armory, Camp Dodge (National Guard Facility), Pammel Woods (ISU campus), and ISU fitness centers. Full participation in all events will be determined based on students' physical and medical eligibility.
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 102L. Basic Leadership Laboratory II.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 102 required
Uses basic military training, missions and scenarios to provide a hands-on method of developing confidence and leadership skills. Rotation through various levels of leadership positions at the platoon and squad level within the Army command structure. Provides a constant learning environment as they learn to communicate effectively and work as a team while assigned to positions at various levels within the organization. Students also learn various military tasks such as marching, rifle firing, and tactical patrolling; gain confidence through rappelling and construction/use of rope bridges; and increase professional knowledge in areas such as first aid, water survival, personal physical fitness, and land navigation. Teaching locations include the ISU Armory, Camp Dodge (National Guard Facility), Pammel Woods (ISU campus), and ISU fitness centers. Full participation in all events will be determined based on students' physical and medical eligibility.
M S 150. Army Physical Readiness.
(0-3) Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.
This lab is designed to use basic military skills and instruction to develop confidence, leadership, and physical fitness. The team approach is utilized in the instruction and application of Army physical fitness requirements. Students will learn various Army physical fitness techniques as well as how to conduct physical fitness sessions. Teaching locations include Lied Recreation Center, Beyer Hall, State Gym as well as around campus. Full participation in all events will be determined based on students physical and medical eligibility.
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 201L. Basic Leadership Laboratory III.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 201 required
Uses basic military training, missions and scenarios to provide a hands-on method of developing confidence and leadership skills. Students observe and participate in the rotation through various levels of leadership positions at the platoon and squad level within the Army command structure. Learn to communicate effectively and work as a team while assigned to positions at various levels within the organization. Students also learn various military tasks such as marching, rifle firing, and tactical patrolling; gain confidence through rappelling and construction/use of rope bridges; and increase professional knowledge in areas such as first aid, water survival, personal physical fitness, and land navigation. Teaching locations include the ISU Armory, Camp Dodge (National Guard Facility), Pammel Woods (ISU campus), and ISU fitness centers. Full participation in all events will be determined based on students' physical and medical eligibility.
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 202L. Basic Leadership Laboratory IV.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Concurrent enrollment in M S 202 required
Uses basic military training, missions and scenarios to provide a hands-on method of developing confidence and leadership skills. Students observe and participate in the rotation through various levels of leadership positions at the platoon and squad level within the Army command structure. Learn to communicate effectively and work as a team while assigned to positions at various levels within the organization. Students also learn various military tasks such as marching, rifle firing, and tactical patrolling; gain confidence through rappelling and construction/use of rope bridges; and increase professional knowledge in areas such as first aid, water survival, personal physical fitness, and land navigation. Teaching locations include the ISU Armory, Camp Dodge (National Guard Facility), Pammel Woods (ISU campus), and ISU fitness centers. Full participation in all events will be determined based on students' physical and medical eligibility.
M S 250. Advanced Army Physical Readiness I.
(0-5) Cr. 2.
F.
Prereq: Successfully complete M S 150 and permission of Department Chair
Students learn to plan and conduct physical fitness sessions, following Army physical fitness readiness requirements. Development of physical fitness plan and leadership of training sessions. Participation determined by students' physical and medical eligibility.
M S 251. Advanced Army Physical Readiness II.
(0-5) Cr. 2.
S.
Prereq: Successfully complete M S 150 and M S 250
Students learn to plan and conduct physical fitness sessions, following Army physical fitness readiness requirements. Development of physical fitness plan, and leadership of training sessions. Participation determined by students' physical and medical eligibility.
M S 283. The U.S. Army in American Society to 1917.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Survey of U.S. Army history focused on the Army's social and cultural interactions from colonial wars up to the First World War. Examines the roles of race and culture in Army structure and operations.
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 301. Methods of Instructing Military Skills.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Completion of the basic Military Science program, concurrent enrollment in M S 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 301L. Advanced Leadership Laboratory I.
(0-4) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in M S 301 and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
The lab compliments M S 301 by providing opportunities to practice the lessons from class. On-the-job training and evaluation provided by the ROTC cadre. Developing training programs, structuring laboratories, presenting classes, planning various events, and accepting responsibility for the leadership labs. Participating in the Water Survival test, Army Physical Fitness test and the Land Navigation test are required.
M S 302. Applied Leadership.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Completion of the basic Military Science program, concurrent enrollment in M S 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 302L. Advanced Leadership Laboratory II.
(0-4) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in M S 302 and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
The lab compliments M S 302 by providing opportunities to practice the lessons from class. On-the-job training and evaluation provided by the ROTC cadre. Developing training programs, structuring laboratories, presenting classes, planning various events, and accepting responsibility for the leadership labs. Participating in the Water Survial Test, Army Physical Fitness Test and the Land Navigation test required.
M S 401. Seminar: The Military Team.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in M S 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 401L. Advanced Leadership Laboratory III.
(0-4) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in M S 401 and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
The lab compliments the instruction from class by demonstrating the indelible link between personal values and successful leadership. On-the-job training and evaluation provided by the ROTC cadre. Developing training programs, structuring laboratories, presenting classes, planning various events, and accepting responsibility for the leadership labs.
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 402L. Advanced Leadership Laboratory IV.
(0-4) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Completion of the basic program, concurrent enrollment in M S 402 and permission of the Chair of the Military Science Department
The lab compliments the instruction from class by demonstrating the indelible link between personal values and successful leadership. On-the-job training and evaluation provided by the ROTC cadre. Developing training programs, structuring laboratories, presenting classes, planning various events, and accepting responsibility for the leadership labs.
M S 490. Independent Study: Advanced Military Study.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Repeatable, maximum of 4 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: M S 301, M S 302, M S 401 and M S 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.
