Experiential Learning
The University of Richmond emphasizes experiential learning (using what you’ve learned in the classroom in real life situations like internships, study abroad and research opportunities) for all students on campus. For students in the Department of Military Science and Leadership, experiential learning isn’t simply encouraged—it’s a given. Throughout four years, ROTC students participate in training programs, simulations and exercises that reinforce what they are learning and prepare them for life as a military officer.
Special Opportunities
Airborne School
University of Richmond traditionally receives approximately up to ten Airborne School slots each year. Cadets normally attend this training in between their sophomore and junior years. Cadets compete for these slots based on an order of merit. Check out the Airborne video.
Air Assault School
University of Richmond traditionally receives an Air Assault slot each year. Cadets normally attend this training in between their sophomore and junior year. Cadets compete for these slots based on an order of merit.
Mountain Warfare School
Located in Jericho, Vt.
Northern Warfare School
Located in Fort Wainwright, Alaska.
Cadet Field Training
Conducted at the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., Cadet Field Training is a rigorous and challenging program designed to train and prepare rising cadets in their mission to become Army officers. CFT trains West Point cadets who are entering their sophomore year to prepare them for the challenges they will find at LDAC. The CFT Regiment is organized into eight companies with four platoons each. Only 32 ROTC cadets across the nation are selected to take part in this training opportunity. This eight-week program provides military training, physical training, and moral, ethical, and professional development. During the course of the summer, each cadet is introduced to and has the opportunity to fire virtually every common weapon in the U.S. Army arsenal.
Cadet Troop Leader Training
The University of Richmond traditionally receives Cadet Troop Leader Training (lieutenant internships) each year. All 12 UR cadets who wanted to participate received a slot in 2002. Cadets served in the three-four week internships in Active Army units throughout the United States and Germany. Cadets normally attend this training in between their junior and senior year. Cadets compete for these slots based on an order of merit.
Leader's Training Course
The Leader's Training Course is only required for those students who did not take ROTC during their freshman and sophomore years. This course is designed for the student to earn basic course credit.
Study Abroad
The Military Science and Leadership Program places a high level of emphasis on study abroad, despite the fact that it is also possible for cadets to travel far afield during training programs. You’ll see the world in the military, but those who have seen the world during extended study and travel can use those experiences to draw from during their careers in military service.
Recent Richmond ROTC cadets conducted military training or university study at locations in Hawaii, Australia, Argentina, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and China. Some students have taken advantage of the United Kingdom Officer Exchange Program. If you plan to study abroad, it’s important to begin talking to your academic advisor and ROTC advisor early, so that you can plan your academic and military training schedule accordingly.
For information on studying abroad, visit the Office of International Education.