Military Science

Principled Leadership

Olivet’s job is to develop students as leaders. From the moment they take on the challenges of this high commitment program, ROTC cadets are learning what the U.S. Army believes in and requires of leaders, what Olivet requires and what Jesus requires.

As an Army ROTC cadet, a student learns and practices principles and skills of military leadership, management, Christian values and selfless service to others. While the cadet is building expertise and confidence for the future, he/she is inspiring strength in others. This is an equal experience for men and women, except for different physical fitness standards.

Career and Leadership Preparation

ROTC cadets give a lot and learn a lot. This four-year military science/Army ROTC program is in addition to the requirements for earning a bachelor’s degree from Olivet. Cadets pursue a variety of degree programs: criminal justice, nursing, engineering and others. Upon graduation, cadets are commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army and also receive a bachelor’s degree in his/her major area of study.

Students start with the Basic Course. They have up to two years — with no obligation for future Army service — to decide if this is how God is calling them to serve. 

When students continue with the Advanced Course, they agree to serve their country for a total of eight years after graduation. This service may be as an officer on full-time active duty or part-time in the Army National Guard or Army Reserve while they pursue a civilian career.

Areas of Study

Students who want to pursue a cause that’s bigger than them, are physically fit and are well-organized often find the military to be a good fit for them. Olivet prepares them academically and spiritually. ROTC prepares them physically, mentally and emotionally. 

Military Science
Military Affairs

All About Leadership

Strong leadership skills launch students into their future careers — in the military and beyond. Cadets are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army upon graduation from Olivet. They may serve with the U.S. Army, Army Reserve or Army National Guard, or enter law enforcement as police officers or special agents with the FBI or CIA.

Army ROTC Information

Opportunities Abound

Join the Roaring Tiger Battalion, earn scholarships, serve the community, participate in military exercises or get an internship. There is no shortage of opportunities outside the classroom for Military Science students.

Alumni Careers in Military Science

Police officer
U.S. Army National Guard officer
U.S. Army officer
U.S. Army Reserve officer
Pastor
Nurse
Computer engineer
Engineer

ROTC at Olivet

Learn leadership skills from a Christian perspective for success in the military and in life; Develop gifts and talents in a structured setting;Be mentored by another cadet during first three years in the program; Plan and lead a battalion exercise from start to finish for the Roaring Tiger Battalion; Learn basic soldier skills; Apply learning in carrying out a field training exercise; Combine classroom time with hands-on experience in leadership development, adventure training and military skills; Receive grants to cover room and board expenses; Compete against cadets from other northern Illinois ROTC programs in Ranger Challenge Competition; Be part of a paid four-week leader evaluation camp during the summer after junior year

2-3-4
year ROTC scholarships available
1952
year Roaring Tiger Battalion began and consistently ranked as one of top ROTC programs in the U.S.
2
major battalion training exercises each year
1st
day through graduation ROTC cadets take on leadership responsibilities
Military Science with a Christian Purpose

The best way to see if Olivet is a good fit for you is to visit the campus. We offer unique, customized visit days every weekday, and special Purple & Gold days, too, where you can get up close at all things ONU.

Schedule a Visit