Army ROTC

Founded in 1917, the UD Army ROTC program stands as one of the oldest, continuously operating programs in the U.S. For more than a century, UD has developed leaders of character who have gone on to serve with distinction as commissioned officers in the United States Army. Our proud tradition reflects not only longevity but also excellence. Our program has consistently earned national recognition and awards for producing top-performing cadets and leaders.

UD Army ROTC has built a reputation for excellence that extends beyond campus. Cadets regularly compete at the national level, earning accolades at events such as the Army Ten-Miler, Ranger Challenge and Cadet Summer Training. Our program has been recognized by U.S. Army Cadet Command for its outstanding performance in academics, physical fitness and leadership development, placing our cadets among the best in the country.

At its core, UD Army ROTC is about preparing students for more than just military service — it's about building leaders for life. Officers commissioned through our program possess the confidence, adaptability and ethical foundation to lead through the most demanding circumstances. Army careers span countless fields, from aviation and engineering to finance, cyber operations and intelligence. Advanced opportunities also exist in medicine, law, veterinary services, dentistry and the chaplaincy.

The University of Dayton's Army ROTC program provides world-class leadership and management training that integrates seamlessly with any chosen academic major. Upon graduation, you'll earn a commission as a Second Lieutenant with the opportunity to serve full-time on Active Duty or part-time in the National Guard or Army Reserve.

From the classroom to the field, UD's Army ROTC has shaped generations of officers whose impact has been felt both across the nation and around the world.

From your very first day on campus, joining UD Army ROTC means joining a family. Cadets at the University of Dayton form a tight-knit community built on shared values, teamwork and lifelong friendships. Whether training together at early-morning physical fitness sessions, competing on the Ranger Challenge team, or celebrating milestones as a group, you'll always have a support network by your side.

ROTC isn't just about wearing a uniform, it's about balance. You'll enjoy the full college experience, — from athletics to student organizations — while also gaining leadership skills that set you apart in any career field.

At UD, you're always a student first. We place a strong emphasis on academic success, connecting cadets with UD's extensive learning resources, tutoring support and study groups. To further ensure success, cadets are organized by academic major, creating built-in mentoring and peer support networks where upperclassmen can provide advice and guidance.

Along the way, you'll take on real responsibility, develop resilience and grow into a leader capable of guiding others through challenges, both in and out of uniform. Upon graduation, you'll have more than a degree — you'll have a career waiting for you as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, ready to lead Soldiers and make an impact.

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Leadership at the Army ROTC program extends beyond the classroom. Through dynamic labs and field experiences, you'll learn to apply leadership principles in real-world settings, gaining confidence and decision-making skills that can't be learned from a textbook alone.

Beyond campus, you'll have access to a range of training opportunities that broaden your perspective and strengthen your abilities. Each summer, you may attend specialized Army schools where you're challenged in areas such as mountaineering, advanced fitness and field leadership. Many also pursue Department of Defense internships, working directly with military and government leaders in areas such as engineering, cyber defense, logistics, and medical research. These experiences provide a unique professional edge, offering you the chance to apply their skills in meaningful, high-impact settings.

Global engagement is another hallmark of our program. You'll have the opportunity to travel across the United States and around the world, training alongside partner nations and experiencing diverse cultures first-hand. These experiences not only develop adaptability and cultural awareness but also build lifelong connections with fellow future leaders from across the globe.

Through these opportunities, you'll graduate with more than just leadership training, you leave with a portfolio of real experiences that prepare you to succeed in the Army and in any professional career you choose to pursue.

Army ROTC offers some of the most generous scholarships available to college students today. At UD, these awards can cover 100% of tuition and fees, while also providing financial support that makes college more affordable and rewarding. Scholarship benefits include a monthly living stipend of $420 during the academic year, along with an annual $1,200 allowance for books and supplies. In addition to these Army benefits, UD covers room and board for the full duration of any ROTC scholarship awarded making a four-year offer a full-ride scholarship.

Not all students receive a scholarship, but there are several pathways for students to receive assistance:

• High school seniors can compete for the Army ROTC National Scholarships, which offers three- or four-year options with the full range of benefits.
• Currently enrolled UD students are eligible to apply for campus-based scholarships that can cover anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 years of study. For those who choose to serve part-time while in college, the National Guard and Army Reserve also provide tuition assistance and additional financial incentives.

These scholarships are designed to remove the financial burden of college while creating a direct path to leadership and career opportunities. Many students graduate debt-free, earning both a degree and a commission as an officer in the U.S. Army. Importantly, you may apply without committing to any service obligation until your sophomore year, giving you time to explore the program and decide if it's the right fit for you.

To learn more and find the option that works best for your situation, contact our office for personalized guidance.

Military and Veteran Programs and Services is here to help veterans and military-affiliated students navigate the UD experience.