The Army ROTC school at Oregon State University (OSU) focuses on teaching students leadership skills and physical endurance. College students can take the necessary courses to become officers in the U.S. Army, without the training interfering with college classes in other subjects. If you're a sophomore, junior or senior in college, but don't have enough time to complete the ROTC training, the Leader's Training course in Fort Knox is available. High school students are also encouraged to enroll in the ROTC program to learn how to complete Army missions and pursue a myriad of military careers. The program also offers tuition assistance and scholarships for students preparing to attend college who are over the age of 17. Students interested in participating in OSU's Army ROTC program can send their applications to 208 McAlexander Fieldhouse, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, or call 541-737-3511.
The University of Portland is home to the U.S. Army's Military Science and Leadership Unit and part of the Army ROTC. The program is designed for students who wish to enter the Army as a second lieutenant after graduating from the university and the ROTC. Students will receive management and leadership training that is specific to the military as well as everyday life, and can also participate in the Ranger Challenge, which focuses on physical fitness and strength. The Military Science and Leadership Unit offers courses and sessions that only take up a few hours of the cadet's time each week, so as not to interfere with other college classes and keep students on track for graduation. Interested students can call 503-943-7353 for enrollment information, or email the ROTC at [email protected].
Detachment 685 is the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps offered at Oregon State University. Students will commit to serve as Air Force officers after graduating from college, and receive a paid college education during their time in the ROTC. Students who are considering the program must apply with a detailed description of extracurricular activities, as well as SAT scores, a personal statement and resume. The program also has weight standards that applicants must adhere to, along with a physical fitness test required for admission. Training in the Air Force program can also qualify cadets to become pilots or combat systems officers after graduating. Potential cadets who are not Oregon residents can contact the ROTC program at 800-633-7352; local applicants can contact the school at 541-737-3291. Students can also contact Detachment 685 administrators via email at [email protected].
The Oregon Youth Challenge Program is designed for high school students who need significant changes in their behavior -- teens who have dropped out of their local high school or are failing their classes are often candidates for the school. The students live in the high school campus for five months, which is a military academy, and are mentored for a year after they return home. Students learn organization and time management at the school, and the staff is encouraged to deal with cadets using "tough love" and the installation of values by example. The school is approved by the Oregon Department of Education, and high school students can receive a diploma or GED from the institution. Parents interested in enrolling their children in the school can contact Frank Strupith (Admissions Counselor) at 541-317-9623 ext. 223, or email [email protected].