ROTC at U-M

The University of Michigan’s ROTC programs provide students with the opportunity to pursue a world-class education while preparing to serve as officers in the U.S. Armed Forces. Through Army ROTC, Navy ROTC, Marine Corps opportunities through Naval ROTC, and Air Force ROTC pathways that also support future Space Force officers, students develop leadership, discipline, physical fitness, and professional skills alongside their academic studies. ROTC cadets and midshipmen at U-M are part of a strong campus community that emphasizes service, teamwork, and personal growth.

A new lieutenant smiles as she hugs an ROTC sergeant who has served as a mentor during the commissioning ceremony.
Photo: Brenda Ahearn/University of Michigan, College of Engineering, Communications and Marketing
An Army cadet holding a flag and other cadets behind him standing in formation to observe the flag raising.
Brenda Ahearn/University of Michigan, College of Engineering, Communications and Marketing
A male cadet and others take part in the Veteran's Day flag raising.
Photo: Brenda Ahearn/University of Michigan, College of Engineering, Communications and Marketing

Reserve Officers’ Training Corps

Explore U-M’s Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC programs. Each program combines academic coursework with training and leadership opportunities.

Army ROTC

The Wolverine Battalion, U-M’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, is a four-year undergraduate program. Ranked the No. 1 ROTC program in 2024, it includes courses such as Military Science (MILSCI) and the Leadership Lab.

Visit Army ROTC

Navy ROTC

Navy ROTC students participate in training and leadership courses that prepare them for careers as officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. Coursework covers subjects such as naval history and navigation.

Visit Navy ROTC

Air Force ROTC

Air Force ROTC students begin in a training squadron and assume greater leadership responsibilities as they progress. The first two years focus on the General Military Course (GMC), while upper-level students participate in the Professional Officer Course (POC).

Visit Air Force ROTC

Normandy Staff Ride

The Normandy Staff Ride is an educational trip to the historic World War II battlefields in Normandy, France, where participants study the planning, leadership, and execution of the Allied D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. During the experience, students or military participants visit key sites such as Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, Sainte-Mère-Église, and the Normandy American Cemetery to better understand the challenges faced by Allied forces. The staff ride combines historical study with on-site discussion, allowing participants to analyze decision-making, strategy, sacrifice, and leadership in a real-world setting. It is often used as a powerful professional development experience for ROTC cadets and military leaders.