Aerospace Studies

The Aerospace Studies minor through Air Force ROTC gives you a structured way to explore leadership, national security and the role of technology in air and space operations while earning a technical bachelor’s degree. If you are curious about military service, public service or leadership in complex organizations, this minor adds context and perspective that employers value.

At Colorado School of Mines, you already develop strong problem-solving skills and technical depth. Aerospace Studies complements that foundation by helping you understand how engineering, science and decision-making come together in real-world missions. You can take the first two years of courses without a service commitment.

If you decide to invest further and become an Air Force ROTC cadet, the program offers a clear pathway to compete for an officer commission after graduation. Even if you choose not to commission, the minor strengthens your bachelor’s degree by building leadership skills, ethical reasoning and an understanding of large, mission-driven organizations. That combination can set you apart in industry, government or graduate school.

Program Overview

The Aerospace Studies minor is designed to fit alongside demanding technical majors at Mines. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with applied leadership development, giving you a broader view of how technical expertise supports air and space operations.

As an ROTC student, you can enroll in Aerospace Studies lecture courses during your first two years with no obligation to join the military. If you choose to apply and are accepted as an Air Force ROTC cadet, you will also participate in physical training and leadership labs and complete four years of Aerospace Studies courses.

To earn the minor, cadets must complete at least 20 credits of Aerospace Studies and ensure no more than 9 credit hours are used as electives toward their bachelor’s degree. By graduation, you add leadership experience, professional discipline and a deeper understanding of aerospace operations to your technical education.

Program Options

General Military Course (Years 1 and 2)

Introductory lecture courses focused on the Air Force mission, organization and leadership fundamentals. Open to all students without a commitment required.

Professional Officer Course (Years 3 and 4)

Advanced coursework for accepted Air Force ROTC cadets emphasizing leadership, management and preparation for commissioning. Includes physical training and leadership labs.