FAQs

FAQs

Is participating in ROTC the same as “joining” the military?
Not at all. ROTC is a series of elective college courses, which you can begin your freshman year with no military obligation. Taking a Military Science course is similar to taking any other class on campus.

When does my participation in ROTC begin to incur a military service obligation?
For most students it’s the start of your junior year of college. This is when you decide whether or not you want to pursue a commission in the Army. At this time you would sign a contract with the US Army. This applies to two-year scholarship students and all non-scholarship students in the program. A three-year or four-year scholarship winner becomes obligated at the start of their sophomore year.

What scholarships are available to incoming freshmen or transfer students?
There are 4-year, 3-year and 2-year scholarships available to qualified students. As an incoming student you are eligible for any of the three scholarships but must be selected for it. For more information on applying for a scholarship, contact the Enrollment Officer at (401) 865-2269, or e-mail at patriot5@providence.edu

Can only scholarship winners enroll in ROTC?
Anyone can enroll in ROTC. And regardless of whether you’re a scholarship winner or not, all ROTC books, supplies and equipment are furnished at no cost to you.

I heard that ROTC students have to run every morning at 5:00 A.M… is that true?
No, it is not. All contracted cadets are required to attend three physical fitness sessions per week. These sessions are held at Providence College, Bryant University, and UMass Dartmouth campuses on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Normal sessions are held from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m.. For non-contracted cadets the sessions are optional, but it is strongly encouraged that they attend.

How can I get more information on ROTC at the Patriot Battalion?
For more information on the ROTC program and scholarships available, contact our Enrollment Officer at 401.865.2269 or patriot5@providence.edu.