ROTC FAQs
Looking for more information? You're in the right place!
This is a good place to start to learn more about the ROTC Program at UW-Eau Claire. Read through the frequently asked questions below and contact us if you would like more information.
If I enroll in Army ROTC, am I obligated to serve?
No. You can enroll in ROTC courses for up to two years with no service obligation. ROTC course credits will appear on your official UW-Eau Claire transcript and count toward the 120 credits you need for graduation.
What about haircuts and wearing uniform
Your hair must be well-groomed but crew cuts for men are not a requirement. While you will learn how to wear a uniform properly, you are only required to wear it during leadership lab, training sessions and special occasions.
Are there any physical requirements?
Yes. Physical fitness is a critical component of a soldier's and officer's readiness. Being in good physical condition improves overall health, helps you deal better with stress, and helps your mental acumen. Officers should set the example in physical fitness.
Physical training (PT) is conducted three times a week for one hour and is a combined session with students from all ROTC classes. The focus is two-fold: to achieve high performance on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and to improve overall physical readiness. Activities include a wide variety of cardio workouts, muscle workouts, ruck marches, stretching, and swimming/water skills;team sport activities such as Ultimate Football or handball complement standard workouts. PT sessions emphasize target heart rate and heart rate monitoring.
The Combat Water Survival Test (CWST) is a requirement to commission. Failure to pass will result in you being enrolled in an ROTC-funded swimming improvement class until you can successfully complete the CWST.
Will ROTC interfere with my academic or athletic pursuits?
No. Your academic and athletic success is our highest priority and you must do well in both areas to succeed in ROTC. While it is true that cadets have some additional extracurricular activities, preparation time, and group work, our cadets have a cumulative GPA above the university average. ROTC cadets are often more mature and better time managers than most students.
Will ROTC help me get a job?
There are some career tracks where ROTC may not help you, but the exceptional record of graduating cadets getting good jobs in their fields is well above average. Most employers view Reservists and officers leaving active duty in very positive terms. Even students who have taken ROTC courses but do not contract with the Army are viewed as desirable to most employers.