Military Science

The Military Science minor through the Army ROTC is a practical way to add leadership training, strategic thinking and real-world decision-making to your technical bachelor’s degree. At Colorado School of Mines, you build strong analytical skills. Army ROTC helps you apply those skills in situations that demand accountability, teamwork and clear judgment.

You can explore the program with flexibility. Any student can take the first two years of Military Science lecture courses with no military service commitment. This lets you test your interest in leadership and service before deciding whether to invest further.

If you choose to become an Army ROTC cadet, the program prepares you to compete for a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Even beyond commissioning, the minor strengthens your degree by developing discipline, resilience and confidence. Employers across engineering, technology and operations value graduates who understand leadership under pressure and how large organizations function.

Program Overview

The Military Science minor is structured to fit alongside rigorous majors at Mines. Coursework focuses on leadership, military organization, ethics and the application of strategy in complex environments.

ROTC students may enroll in the first two years of lecture courses without participating in physical training or leadership labs. To invest as a cadet, you complete the required paperwork and documentation and then take part in physical training and leadership labs in addition to coursework.

To earn the minor, Army ROTC cadets must complete at least 22 credits of Military Science courses. To commission, cadets must also complete four years of Military Science, physical training, leadership labs and a military history course. If your elective credits allow, the minor is typically applied for during your senior year and aligns well with Mines degree requirements.

Program Options

Basic Course (Years 1 and 2)

Introductory lecture courses that cover leadership fundamentals and the role of the Army. Open to all students with no military service obligation.

Advanced Course (Years 3 and 4)

Required for cadets seeking to commission. Focuses on leadership development, management and preparation for service. Includes physical training and leadership labs.